The case for rich operating systems supporting a wide range of applications has been proven out among PCs, tablets and smartphones.

ENGADGET: Switched On: The next microplatform

It is used in a wide range of military missions, even operating from unpaved runways and in hostile environments.

FORBES: In Dispute, Brazil's Embraer Temporarily Loses $427 Mln U.S. Air Force Gig

As explained in recent Senate testimony, operating exchanges is going to require incredibly complex coordination of a wide range of government agencies.

FORBES: Will Consumers Be Able to Understand Health Exchanges?

State lawmakers have responded by trying to regulate a wide range of activities of the increasingly remote institutions operating within their borders.

ECONOMIST: Banking regulation: Hall of fame | The