An extensible classification model for distribution architectures of synchronous groupware

In this paper we present a new classification model for distribution architectures of synchronous groupware. Former models divide distribution architectures into centralized, replicated and hybrid ones. Such a classification is not expressive enough to argue about pros and cons of a specific realisation, thus in the past discussions about distribution architectures were very emotional. Discussions about best architectures are going on. A model with stronger expressiveness would help to clear up this discussion. Our classification model distinguishes five basic architectures and several subtypes. It allows discussing aspects of distribution architectures in detail. We used this model to classify some groupware platforms. A list of criteria at the end of this paper demonstrates the influence of specific architectures on groupware usage.

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