With the planned installation of video and computer equipment, Jackson County Circuit Court will become Oregon's first trial court system with Internet-based web conferencing multimedia capabilities, said administrator Jim Adams.

The new setup — slated for completion in June — will allow criminal arraignments, witness testimony, probation hearings and Jackson County Jail inmate visits to be cast over live, Internet-streaming video. The project is expected to save the county money in employee labor, Adams said.

Web conferencing has become a popular communications medium in corporations for its ability to curb costs and improve productivity.

Rather than bring a group of engineers together from various locations for a face-to-face meeting, Web conferencing enables them to meet virtually, which eliminates travel hassles and expenses.

In addition, top company executives use it to communicate quickly and effectively with shareholders, the press and employees.

Inter-Tel, which provides business communications systems, has announced an upgrade to its easy-to-use, cost-effective IP-based collaboration tool.  Inter-Tel Audio and Web Conferencing allows users to conduct real-time, online conferences.