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In delving into the issues that arise from the digitization of scientific output, circulation and access, this article first makes a brief detour into the history of practices in the exchange of research data and applications. It then explores contemporary practice in acquiring and updating knowledge, which is now dependent on computer networks and a vast range of calculation and visualization tools, data capture networks, databases, computer assisted publication software, computer supported collaborative work, and so on. Communication practices have evolved over time and vary among disciplines. This article attempts to characterize the situation today, including in the open access field.