THE FUTURE OF THE QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEM - ITS IMPACT ON THE SOCIALAND PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION OF SCIENTISTS IN THE ERA OF ELECTRONIC PUBLISHING

Scientific communication is the basis of the open exchange of knowledg e worldwide. The system of scientific communication is also closely re lated to the reward system of scientists; more specifically, to the pr ocess of social and professional recognition. A fundamental element in these intertwined worlds of communication and reward is the publicati on of research results. In particular, the scientific journal here pla ys a central role. It embodies the main functions of scientific commun ication, with quality control as a major element. In this presentation , we discuss how electronic publishing developments and new informatio n technology in general will affect these main functions of scientific communication, the differences one may expect between scientific fiel ds and the consequences for the accessibility of new knowledge. We con clude that most changes primarily will be technological, but not conce ptual. Publication via journals or journal-like media of high reputati on is, in most fields of science, crucial to receive the most visible professional recognition. That will remain so in the 'electronic era'.