It allows them to offer stock options to local employees, a boon in a drum-tight labor market.

CNN: THE NEW YORK GOLD RUSH

Several heavyweights, including Facebook and Google, already offer users options to see some information stored about them.

WSJ: Online-Data Bill Sets Up Privacy Fight

While VoIP is well cheaper than traditional phone service, dozens of competitors promise to offer an array of new calling options, some of them absolutely free.

FORBES: The Trouble With VoIP

Banks offer incentives to consumers for using these direct-pay options, which allow them to keep better tabs on their customers and their money.

FORBES: Magazine Article

However, the council had to offer new contracts to employees who had not accepted them after it had "exhausted all other options".

BBC: NEWS | UK | Scotland | Tayside and Central | Staff stage walkout amid pay row