Some generic comments on the state of the art 
          in the design of  mathematical information carriers

                          Philippe L. Toint

                             Report 03/16

This paper discusses the state of the art of a much under-researched and
particularly under-documented domain of the mathematical research activities,
namely the design of mathematical information carriers. The range of design
variables is explored and a first broad classification is proposed. The
argument is supported by first-hand experience and graphically illustrated.