In a few short years, access to electronic mail and the Internet has become a practical possibility for almost any researcher with access to a computer and a telephone line. The use of electronic mail and the Internet for access to information, dissemination of information, and collaboration is typically referred to as electronic networking. Having said that, there are clear benefits to the use of electronic networking which are summarized below. Time and logistics Perhaps the most important feature of electronic networking is its ability to allow people to share information dynamically. Not only can researchers share information almost immediately with their peers, but they are not bound to communicate at specific times as would be necessary in a telephone conference.
Users can access their correspondence at their convenience.
This is especially important in situations where networks span several time zones and when busy schedules make coordination difficult. Access to information is substantially quicker via electronic networks as well. Research papers which were once hard to find and slow to obtain are now often available within minutes via the Internet. Information dissemination is quicker and more effective. A paper published on an Internet website immediately benefits from having a global audience.