The Client Cisco enables people to make powerful connections--whether in business, education, philanthropy, or creativity. Cisco hardware, software, and service offerings are used to create the Internet solutions that make networks possible--providing easy access to information anywhere, at any time. “Between hope and possibility, there’s a bridge. Cisco technology is creating a world of potential.” -Cisco The Product CiscoTelepresence System Business Units (TSBU) are a wide range of products developed by Cisco Systems designed to link two physically separated rooms, so they resemble a single conference room regardless of location. The Challenge Cisco sought to create a lifelike, reliable, and visually consistent communication experience incorporating state-of-the-art technologies in HD display, spatial audio, imaging, and lighting -- all accessible through an intuitive user interface. The challenge was to create a comfortable environment conducive to open communication while playing down system complexity to create a lifelike conference room experience. The Process Taking the people part of the system into consideration, Speck Design focused its energy first on human behaviors to meet the mechanical requirements. Natural communication, movement, seating behaviors, eye contact, lighting, and sound transmission were prime focal points. Early in the program, it became clear that microphone placement and performance would be critical success factors. This meant designing a uniquely shaped microphone unit with high-performance distance parameters for optimal voice transmission. Striving to make the entire experience more organic, low-profile camera housing was used as a way to capture images beautifully without drawing attention away from an immersive telepresence experience. The Outcome Speck Design created the illusion of one central table that extended through the display and was shared by all video conference participants. To fur