On document supply in the digital world

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide insight into the evolution of document supply from traditional print copy delivery to a modern service of resource discovery and secure electronic supply.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on evidence from empirical data at INIST, as well as enquiries and case studies from other suppliers and customers.

Findings

Four topics are presented: the customers' needs, the use of new technologies in the front‐ and back‐office, resource sharing and networking on the national and international level, and the negotiation of copyright agreements with publishers.

Originality/value

Based on evidence, an overall synthesis is given on significant developments, providing outlines of the future of document supply.

Citation

Schöpfel, J. and Gillet, J. (2007), "On document supply in the digital world", Interlending & Document Supply, Vol. 35 No. 4, pp. 195-204. https://doi.org/10.1108/02641610710837491