Why Invest Time and Money Into OWLs?

OWLs aren't cheap. At the least, they require the time (often paid) of one coordinator; at the most, they can require both a significant investment in hardware, software, and personnel. (For more on this, take a look at some technical issues.)

So, are they worth the cost? Some have argued that OWLs are indeed worth their cost because

• they allow writing centers to extend their services over space and time

• new media allow for new ways of tutoring

• OWL Web sites can offer students new ways to conduct research

• OWL Web and gopher sites can offer good starting places for students

• OWLs might improve writing center's "credibility"