February 1, 2003
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| Knowledge, insight and entertainment at Cisco's OnBusiness Network |
By CHI1 Staff
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OnBusiness Network is a Flash media programming site presenting business news and features in video clips.
The site is run by Cisco Systems and is currently free in its pilot stage, originally scheduled for 10 weeks. If the network continues past its pilot stage it is unclear whether it will be free, subscription-based or draw revenue based on some other model.
When first opening the Flash Window to OnBusiness Network, viewers are greeted by guide Linda Cassidy (see image). From the left, one can then choose a current program from the line-up or, alternatively, one can browse the history of clips from the lower third of the display.
The content offered on the network is drawn from both original works and partner providers. TechTV, MSNBC, Gartner Security and Cisco all contribute to the programming lineup, coming together into a rich set of news, documentaries and entertainment.
Perhaps the most compelling and unique clips are the CEOs Upclose segments. Interviewers Amy Atkins and, Pulitzer-prize winning writer, Ron Suskind ask revealing questions while carrying a professional tone. Suskind and Atkins are able to bring out the character and mindset of the CEOs they interview without affectation.
One might note the consistency of the questions posed to each of the interviewees. Hearing the response from different CEOs to questions like "How do you measure success?" and "What is some failure that you learned from?" provides an interesting case study on what it takes to lead a competitive company.
Tying-in with each CEO Upclose is the CEO Must-Reads, presented as a separate clip of the Upclose interview where the executives talk about books that have helped them. As one might expect, the CEO Must-Reads offers a slightly more personal and philosophical aspect of the interview.
OnBusiness even has two animated series, Tech Revolution and Intrepid Reporter. These unique, Flash-based cartoons add some entertaining frivolity to the line-up, with themes based on business-related topics, tempered with light-hearted humor.
The site states technical requirements state that users need a minimum of 500 kbps but those with even just 150 kbps can enjoy the audio and video stills. To the disappointment of non-Microsoft users, the comprehensive Flash version of the site does not support Macintosh or Unix and, oddly enough, it cannot be run with Netscape versions greater than 4.x.
Visit www.onbusinessnetwork.com.
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