The word "Odyssey" conjures up a sense of wandering or a long adventurous journey, which our Consortium members feel is an apt description of our use of information technology at this preliminary stage and perhaps for a few more years.

The excitement, mishaps, and challenges are what are gripping many of us now. We are fellow travellers being carried along by a vision of hopes and promises. Some have gone further ahead than others, let these lead us on. Some are pausing and taking stock, and there is always time for that.

Let us not rush, but be steadfast, true, and supportive of one another during the learning process.