Group-based interactions for multiuser applications

Abstract

We propose a group-based model for the development of interactive applications where multiple users communicate and collaborate with each other and share information.
The model defines the organization of a system in terms of entities and groups, each one with a well-defined interface, that mediates all the interactions.
Entities can dynamically enter and leave groups, and distinct forms of communication among the group members are allowed, namely based on messages, events and a shared space.
This model provides support for explicit groups and a novel concept of implicit groups, which allows the system to automatically adapt the group membership according to the dynamic changes in user profiles.
We discuss applications of the model and illustrate its use to support example scenarios in local communities.