The concept of Web 2.0 is changing the way we access and distribute information. The Web has developed from a static system to a dynamic tool, in which people disseminate information and can collaborate. Examples such as Wikis and social networks are known to everybody. The benefits are large and will be even larger in the near future. The impact on nearly all aspects of our life, including science, is obvious. Due to the Web's technical opportunities, science is changing rapidly. The benefits to science and the scientific community as a result of these evolving technologies will be immeasurable.
The vision of Science 2.0 is promising: Communication between scientists will accelerate the distribution of new knowledge. Without anonymous review processes, the concept of open-access journals will assure research quality. Science is collaboration, so scientific social networks will facilitate and improve the way scientists collaborate. Cooperation on scientific publications can be facilitated through Wiki-like concepts.
ResearchGate is for scientists, built by scientists,
driven by the concept of Science 2.0.
From a student co-authoring his first research paper to a busy post-doc or a strategy-thinking professional group leader, every scientist knows that research success is heavily based on interaction with coworkers and fellow scientists. This interaction happens visibly or invisibly in our daily lives as researchers: the chat in the library, the call to an author of a new paper or the emotional discussion at a convention reception. More formal interactions include searching for the latest research papers, talks or patents. Everybody develops his or her own habits in interacting with other researchers.
We have also experienced that research collaboration, the exchange of promising ideas or a cooperative grant application work best if the co-researcher is a trusted and known person. In the best case, he's a good friend.
