However, having weighed up the possible advantages and disadvantages, they did not feel that the existence of an electronic version would affect their selection of journals for publication. The authors surveyed had little interest in electronic-only journals, ie journals that have no printed version. Nearly half thought too few readers had electronic access. A similar number worried about its quality status. Conclusions Authors are very clear on the benefits and pitfalls of electronic journals.
Authors perceive the investment of preparing multimedia as exceeding any benefits.
Very few submit any, and where they do, it's part of the researcher's existing work practice. Electronic-only journals are regarded with suspicion as not delivering the key benefits authors expect for participation in the publication process.