When a catalog is distributed via a network, the timeliness of the data on the server determines the need to update. On CD, the updates must be reduced to a minimum.

For electronic documents you cannot make use of temporary revision sheets or customer information letters, as it is the habit with printed catalogs. The electronic catalog benefits from its functionality, which cannot be changed so easily on the user side.

Additional revision sheets or letters # be it on paper or in electronic form # can easily be overlooked. Essential to the usability of the electronic catalog is the upkeep of correct information.  Therefore, temporary revisions should only be made if they cannot be avoided.

Instead, you should try to establish a process that facilitates the revision of the whole catalog and therefore secures its timeliness. A user will only accept a catalog when he can fully trust the validity of its content.