A technique for allowing customers to control a video network. A network controller receives a request from an end user for a video connection between a first port and a second port. The request may specify at least a start time, an end time, the first port and the second port. A plurality of available routes between the first port and the second port may be analyzed to determine at least one selected route that will be used to connect the first port and the second port. A first command may be sent to automatically connect the first port and the second port via the at least one selected route at the start time. While in progress, the video connection may be modified according to system availability. Customers may have a view of all requests that have been made, completed or reserved for in the future.