This information can now be organized to allow access through global networks in ways that were difficult or impossible in the past. The quality of information has also changed dramatically. And although new kinds of costs are incurred, the overall cost of information is going down. Communication has also increased. Our social, political and management systems are becoming more sophisticated and dependant upon effective communication.
Organizations rely upon a wider variety of supports and relationships.
Complex organizations are entering into collaborative relationships requiring extensive communication. These is also greater recognition of the value of links with persons in other communities who share common experiences and challenges. In open access systems, everyone can search out and read available material from throughout a community and around the world. More importantly, everyone can contribute - can comment, critique or create new material for others to read. Decentralization was encouraged within organizations and communities - as the means for working with information was more widely distributed.