How do I connect a linux and a w2008 guest on same host in VMWare 8

I am using VMWare Workstation 8.0.4 build-744019, vmtools updated on both guests.

First off, I am not a VMWare expert or a Networking expert.  I ultimately need to be able to reference applications between the 2 guest OS's. I.e. I need to be able to ping between the 2 guest OS's.

I have tried many different configurations including Bridged,lan segments etc. without any success.  I have read through the documentation and the other posts but I still cannot figure out what the issue is.  So stepping back a bit my first question is:

1. What is the best method to accomplish what I am trying to do? Bridged? NAT? Lan Segment?

Based on the answer to that question, I can go back re-try the configuration and then post additional questions.

Thanks in advance for your help.