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Proper audio and visual programming for net applications is key to the success of many websites. This fact is extremely evident in the gaming sector, where users experience the thrills of gambling at their personal computer. Although producing a perfect "Vegas" style experience in the home is probably out of reach, it is still possible to program interesting graphics and sounds that simulate what one might hear at a Las Vegas casino or sportsbook. Geraldine Estes, director of graphic design for the Estes Family Marketing firm believes it takes a very experienced graphic artist to work for online gaming websites: "By far, the most competitive graphic design challenges are in online gaming and adult websites. For example, most online casinos websites require multiple banners and creative design to catch a customer's eye. The same holds true for sports betting websites, where intensive sporting graphics and phrases are required." Estes has worked online since the inception of gaming on the internet, and has a long resume of major marketing accomplishments and accolades. Her specialty is sports, but she has recently taken on the challenge of casino websites as well. "My very first foray into the online sports betting world was with a basketball betting website. We worked hard throughout the year to perfect it for the winter season, when college basketball betting and professional NBA betting are top draws. In the summertime, the emphasis is placed on football betting websites. We also have completed several websites focusing on college sports, especially NFL betting." Estes is not alone in her class. According to the Ginnery annual online gaming executive report, about 100 others exist with the same audio and visual experience as Estes. This means there is a lot of competition, especially among those who credit themselves with good NFL betting and top site Sports betting websites, or even baseball betting websites. The Ginnery report believes sports betting is the most challenging area, while online blackjack and of course online rummy are second to none in terms of competitive challenge. Dave Wright, an offshore consultant based in Paris on the Champs de Elyse business center, believes the audio and visual future of gaming lies in enhanced programming languages, like flash and fireworks (Macromedia products). In a recent article, Wright wrote: "I firmly believe online sportsbooks and sports betting are the toughest areas for graphic designers. Novies are not comfortable in these demanding environments, so experience is absolutely necessary. The online casino I work with has several audio/visual artists with more than 10 years industry experience and knowledge - this means creating websites for basketball betting on the fly is relatively easy to do."
Jobs in the gaming sector also continue to expand outside of Las Vegas, with a high demand for employment at Native American casinos on the East coast, as well as Reno and Atlantic City. This is also true of the online gaming element, where it has been noted that several online casinos are hiring for most all Executive and service positions. In a recent report by Bryan Hayes, a noted gaming analyst, it was concluded that the patronage of online casinos is only increasing as the world becomes more internet literate. Writes Hayes, "We're seeing a huge increase in the online gaming and skill gaming markets, which means more employment opportunities for those looking for work. This means that most offshore online sportsbooks and online casinos businesses will continue to boom as long as there is demand." Hayes also noted that CasinoEuro and River Belle Casino demand has increased, since for the most part, the game does not involve any luck element. "Backgammon is unique because it is a true skill game," said Hayes, "and as a result, it can be marketed to US audiences. Accordingly, more backgammon experts and table managers will be needed for virtual backgammon halls."