Adding networking to hypertext: can it be done transparently?

Abstract

Networks are becoming increasingly available and hypertext systems with networking capabilities are currently enjoying exponential growth. The vast majority of hypertext systems were not, however, designed to cater for networking. This paper examines whether it is possible to add networking to such systems and, if so, whether it can be done without upsetting existing hyperdocuments, existing authors and existing readers. The examination is done using one specific hypertext system, UNIX Guide, but the lessons are, I hope, more general.