The clearest gains lie in the area of research computing and scientific productivity. With the present high speed networks it is possible to make use of remote supercomputing facilities, transport data and images from remote sites to local machines, access data archives, etc.
Networks make it easier to maintain close collaborative efforts with remote colleagues.
To a lesser degree the ability to access on line papers, preprints, abstract indices, etc., has improved research efficiency. In instruction and student advising, some gain in efficiency is attained by the use of web-based information and electronic mail. Electronic mail has not reduced the amount of direct contact with students, but it has enabled students to have more frequent and less formal contact with faculty. Students always have appreciated supplemental course materials, lecture notes, practice tests, and the web makes it easier to deliver these. A great deal of programming effort is also required.