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2.  [[underlined]] Question:  What are the Smithsonian's needs at the present time to move ahead properly in this era of changing communications technology? [[/underlined]]

[[underlined]]Answer:[[underlined]]  The primary need is to develop a sophisticated, "in-house" capability that would be able to react professionally to the diverse opportunities certain to come in the years immediately before us.  The Institution requires greater expertise in various and complex film-related areas so that it will be able to answer public education needs for filmstrips, cassettes, and other forms of motion and still picture technology as they develop.  It is felt that the beginning steps towards the development of such a capability at this time might follow a two or three-track system -- (1) through the development of a small cadre to work on this assignment; (2) through contracts with outside firms which have demonstrated professional competence in these areas; and, (3) through continued activities with other governmental agencies and/or university institutions also interested in the promises of new communications technology.

3. [[underline]] Question: What general Smithsonian programs covering new communications technology are underway?[[/underlined]]

[[underlined]]Answer:[[/underlined]]The Institution already has made a number of significant moves toward accepting the opportunities offered by the approaching "communication revolution."  A pilot study of video cassette production and capabilities is underway; the Office of Personnel Administration is using audio-visual presentations for the orientation of new employees; the Office of Museum Programs and the Conservator are planning a series of demonstration tapes on technical matters for distribution to museums across the nation; the recent Drug Exhibit was the subject of closed circuit video-taping;