MediaSynch issues for computer-supported cooperative work

Abstract

Computer-supported Cooperative Work (CSCW) systems are often complex distributed applications that incorporate a number of different tools working in concert to support goal- and task-driven collaborations that involve multiple sites and participants. These systems exhibit a wide variety of different system and communication architectures both within and between participating sites. In this chapter, we describe and characterize CSCW systems with respect to media synchronization requirements, identify a number of common challenges that arise as a result, and review a variety of protocol coordination techniques and mechanisms that can be brought to bear.