At the present time, cable TV-based access holds the greatest promise for high data rates. It is likely that the cable television providers would offer this capability as a bundled Internet service rather than in unbundled elements. Much depends on their marketing plan. Timing on these developments is unclear. Because of the uncertain environment it appears prudent to continue the present level of service.
Multimedia applications require high bandwidth.
The University should provide a global interactive video network among the five campuses. This replacement should occur when standards, market conditions, and pricing are most attractive. Future expansion of the video network must include interactive desktop video solutions. To provide a robust information technology-based instructional environment, the University should encourage the development and distribution of instructional multimedia, provide access to multimedia instruction in classrooms, provide facilities and infrastructure to support multimedia tools, establish an Advanced Instructional Technology Group, and provide services, facilities, and training to support interactive video and multimedia development. Standards are essential to provide increased reliability, reduce support costs, and allow access to the next generation of technology.