How close are we to having a global “Get it for me” service?

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to identify the key features in the process of an end‐user identifying, requesting and obtaining a document they require. In addition it seeks to describe the issues that need to be addressed for this process to become successful and operational. Design/methodology/approach The approach takes a descriptive form. Findings The paper finds that most technical issues have been resolved. The information community as a whole must address how the remaining obstacles can be overcome. Originality/value This is a readable paper by an experienced practitioner on the long‐standing vision of a seamless service for end‐users.