Cotton growers began to realise in the late 1970's that compaction of clay soils may have been a cause of declining yields. Research over the last 10 years has confirmed those suspicions. Compaction can be a widespread and severe limitation to yield; it can also be avoided or repaired . Research findings are of little use on their own. Users must be convinced of the magnitude of the problem and be given ready access to information which can help them overcome a problem. The SOILpak project set out to address these issues by promoting the importance of good soil management, by drawing together existing research results and practical experience, and by presenting the knowledge in a decision-support system. A loose-leaf manual was the medium chosen to deliver the decision support system. This medium makes the information easily accessible, especially in the field where many management decisions are made.