Developments in South African document supply: the experience of the University of the Witwatersrand

Purpose - To examine and report on the challenges and trials of document supply at the University of the Witwatersrand during the recent past. Design/methodology/approach - The article explores the impact of international trade embargoes on document supply and academic research, the role played by the individual and new technologies on document supply and its future. Findings - The role of the individual is an essential part of document supply. Politics can adversely affect academic research capabilities and the invisible college and networking within the academic community has a role to play. Changing technologies have an impact on work flow and work methods. Originality/value - Provides insight for those working in document supply, particularly for those with an interest in South African developments.