Towards An Australian Industry Information Network PDF Download

Data networks have become an essential tool for research. They enable researchers throughout the world, in universities, government agencies and industry, to talk with each other, to work collaboratively, to share results and publications, to access experimental data, and to use remote facilities such as supercomputers. Many researchers claim that these wide area networks not only help in the performance of research but are changing the way in which research is conducted. This study seeks to identify what Australia's future requirements will be for national research data networks. It discusses what is needed to provide an affordable and reliable infrastructure of networks and services to meet the varying and evolving requirements of Australian researchers wherever they might be in the country, and considers whether these services should be made available more widely to the whole community. The importance of research data networks for Australia to maintain an internationally competitive research base for economic and social development is also discussed.