ABSTRACT
Besides the cost factor, the present model no longer suits scientific communication. The publishing model must change, and it will become more efficient. Velterop is sure the time has come for open access because the technology is mature, librarians are losing the budget battle, scientists are waking up to the severe disadvantages of restrictive access, and the old model is no longer suitable. Enough researchers must choose to publish in open access journals for open access to succeed. The OAI E-Print Archives model is inexpensive, has rapid publication, is searchable, interoperable, has permanent redundant backup, is compatible with current publishing, is compatible with refereeing, is academically acceptable, and is proven to work. In the case of the exponential e-print growth model, journal usage drops off sharply and sooner. The stable publisher strategy model shows the most gradual shift from conventional journals to e-prints and open access journals.
