Podiums are special because of their ability to provide a professional and aesthetically pleasing platform for people to give speeches, presentations, or performances. Podiums come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small desktop lecterns to large, two-tiered, adjustable stage podiums. Podiums are also often used to provide direct access to communication devices, from microphones and music players, to computers and web-based media. A quality podium can also serve to enhance the impact of what is being said or performed. For example, a podium with a high-quality sound system can help to ensure that a message can be heard clearly, both at close distance and at a larger venue. Furthermore, podiums can serve to provide the speaker with a sense of elevation and authority. The image of a speaker standing tall and strong at the podium can have a powerful psychological effect on an audience, and even give the speaker a greater degree of confidence. In conclusion, a podium is a powerful tool for many public characters to effectively reach a potential audience. Whether used for educational, political, or private purposes, a podium can help to amplify an important message, portray a sense of authority, and add a layer of professionalism to a presentation.