Publishing biomedical journals on the World-Wide Web using an open architecture model.
BACKGROUND
In many respects, biomedical publications are ideally suited for distribution via the World-Wide Web, but economic concerns have prevented the rapid adoption of an on-line publishing model.


OBJECTIVE
We report on our experiences with assisting biomedical journals in developing an online presence, issues that were encountered, and methods used to address these issues. Our approach is based on an open architecture that fosters adaptation and interconnection of biomedical resources.


METHODS
We have worked with the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), as well as five other publishers. A set of tools and protocols was employed to develop a scalable and customizable solution for publishing journals on-line.


RESULTS
In March, 1996, the New England Journal of Medicine published its first World-Wide Web issue. Explorations with other publishers have helped to generalize the model.


CONCLUSIONS
Economic and technical issues play a major role in developing World-Wide Web publishing solutions.
Shareck
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Harvard-MIT Division of Health Science and Technology, Boston, USA.
Greenes
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D003195:Computer Communication Networks; D001330:Electronic Data Processing; D010506:Periodicals as Topic; D011643:Publishing