EXPERIENCES WITH OBJECT-ORIENTED GROUP SUPPORT SOFTWARE-DEVELOPMENT

This paper describes practical design and implementation experiences g ained when creating Group Support Systems (GSS) in a networked persona l computer environment. Examples of GSS based on the shared context mo del and implemented using C, C++, and Actor languages are presented. G raphical user interfaces and multitasking extend traditional methods f or supporting group work. An object-oriented communication system is i ntroduced comprised of objects that provide support for all inter- and intraprocessor communications between the GSS applications. Multiple levels of data service are provided to maintain shared data, coordinat e user views, and transmit cursor positions in a convenient and effici ent manner. The applications presented not only demonstrate the viabil ity of implementing GSS on personal computer-based systems, but also s how the ability to develop complex applications in different programmi ng environments that make use of common routines. The unique propertie s of the object-oriented paradigm greatly facilitate the creation and use of Group Support Systems.