This is an abstract of the history of DIP's origin and subsequent development over a period of more than 20 years, drafted at a time when much source material had been lost. The intention is to record the names of organisations and individuals who supported DIP, authored the large volume of material at the highest international standard and implemented its online publication. If there are any important errors or ommissions, in particular if individuals are not recorded and contributions not sufficiently described, please contact us and consideration will be given to publishing revisions.
