Such efforts should be mindful of changing technologies, so that collections can meet new standards or be converted to new formats. Developing Countries . The Workshop considered that electronic publishing represents a unique opportunity for developing countries to promote the advancement of their scientific communication. It has the potential for improving access to the world literature, for making up gaps in local collections, and for improving the visibility of their own scientific contributions. Electronic publishing also represents a challenge both to the scientific community and to those responsible for its organization.
Regional differences are significant and hence local initiatives are very important.
Examples from Latin America, Eastern Europe, and Africa were reported. The goal should be the development of true partnerships while avoiding relationships which might heighten the dependency of one party on another. The members of the Workshop urged that ICSU Press consider the production of 'Guidelines to Best Practices in Electronic Publication'.