This report presents the achievements and lessons learnt from the 15 projects that participated in the VRE1 programme.

Overall, the programme was judged as a success in meeting its original aims and objectives. In doing so the projects engaged (to a greater or lesser extent) their respective research communities in VRE development and implementation; conducted extensive user requirements analyses which provided the basis for the construction of various VRE configurations, including both large scale and lightweight, proof-of-concept demonstrators; identified functionality (in the form of tools and services) which met user requirements; and increased awareness of and stimulated discussion on VREs within the UK research community.

Overall, the VRE1 Programme clearly demonstrated its potential to have a major impact on supporting and changing research practices in the academic community.