The Woods Hole Research Center hopes to capitalize on the power of the Internet by expanding its Web capabilities around the globe.

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The Woods Hole Research Center specializes in how the world works as a biophysical system, and applies that knowledge in human affairs. Center scientists explore nature and human interactions with nature. This experience is used to address the environmental issues currently before scientific, educational, and governmental bodies, including the United Nations and international policy makers.

"Since our work takes us from the Amazon to Siberia, having a system that allows our scientists to communicate with each other quickly and easily is crucial," said Michael Ernst, Computer Systems Administrator at the Center. "That is the reason why finding a robust electronic mail system that could support our global needs was such a high priority."

Similarly, the Center's Policy Program, working to connect basic science to policy at the highest levels of government, must maintain a continuing dialogue with colleagues and policy makers in all corners of the world - from Washington to Geneva, Djarkata to Rome.

The Woods Hole Research Center chose Digital's AltaVista Mail product after trying another electronic mail system that did not meet its requirements. "About a year ago we made the decision to commit to Windows NT as the platform on which to build our Internet connectivity," Ernst explained. "When we went searching for an NT-based electronic mail server, we found only a handful on the market. Unfortunately, the first one we purchased, though highly touted, failed to function properly and we struggled for months to try to get it up and running.

"I was at a point of desperation when one day I discovered Digital's AltaVista Mail product on the Internet. I downloaded a beta release to try it out, and since then we haven't looked back," Ernst said. Today, according to Ernst, the AltaVista Mail server supports approximately 45 users who find the product reliable, simple to use, and easy to customize for their individual needs.

"A good electronic mail system should be transparent to the user in the sense that they shouldn't have to think about whether it is working or not - it should just always be readily available," stated Ernst. "For us, AltaVista Mail has been the perfect product: it's easy to install, the maintenance is a breeze, and the graphical interface is elegantly and efficiently designed. While this product has distinguished itself by its reliability, the bonus is that it's a pleasure to use."

The Woods Hole Research Center hopes to capitalize on the power of the Internet by expanding its Web capabilities around the globe. It is currently looking at ways of using the Internet to allow scientists access to a database of research materials currently being developed in Brazil. The Center is also working on the completion of its own Web site, which will give it more visibility and make information accessible to other scientists and policy makers. For Ernst, one of the most interesting challenges revolves around the use of the Internet for collaboration among users.

"A major piece of our work is the creation of proposals and reports that require the input and approval of many people within the center," said Ernst , "so I am focusing on ways in which our people can collaborate electronically to complete these projects. Based upon our success with AltaVista Mail, I am very interested in looking at AltaVista Forum as the right tool."