ABSTRACT
The combination of concerns suggests by the term Computer–Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW) seems to be one that a growing number of researchers, developers and producers find relevant to the interests. The technologies, concerns, and ideas of CSCW are not new, and have around. The emergence of CSCW as a subject of study is the result of a refocussing of attention that brought into relief the relationships between a range concepts. This leads to a four–category classification within which CSCW systems can be locates as either Synchronous–Local, Synchronous–Remote, Asynchronous–Local, or Asynchronous–Remote. The technology has consistently focuses on supporting formal communication, ignoring the key role informal communication plays in the way people work. The systems they are developing can be groups under four loose headings: Desktop Teleconferencing Systems; Shared Window Systems; Distributed Shared Drawing Surfaces and the Open Shared Workspace. TeamWorkStation is an attempt to establish an open shared workspace by ‘fusing’ individual group members’ workspaces.
