Discussion of conventions has merit even when different scientists cannot agree on what a particular
convention should be. For example, discussion can lead to effective strategies for avoiding conflict. In the
case of laboratory notebooks, one can ensure that a clear policy on who keeps notebooks is articulated
before the research is undertaken. Similarly, in the case of first authorship, discussion of authorship
before a project is undertaken can be encouraged. In the first case scenario in Section 1, Dr. Z would have
benefited from a discussion of conventions. Gaining the knowledge that there are written guidelines for
authorship in most journals would in itself have been helpful to him.