diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 5c54c74..e3a88fd 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -3,6 +3,11 @@ Java library for WikiPathways webservice
 
 Currently under development and testing.
 
+With this library you can access the pathway database WikiPathways from Java through the REST webservice API (http://webservice.wikipathways.org).
+The old SOAP webservice will be discontinued in the near future (spring 2015) and all functionality (also updating and uploading information) have been implemented in the REST API. 
+
+Be aware that update and upload functionality provide special permissions that need to be requested before using those webservice functions. 
+
 ### TODO
 - [x] set up automated testing framework on Jenkins (https://jenkins.bigcat.unimaas.nl/view/WikiPathways/job/WikiPathways%20REST%20Java%20library/)
 - [ ] detailed documentation (JavaDoc!)
@@ -10,5 +15,3 @@ Currently under development and testing.
 ### Known bugs
 - [ ] Method findUserByOrcid is currently not working 
 - [ ] Building cache has issues (gets stuck after 50-70 pathways)
-
-