Distributed multiparty desktop conferencing system: MERMAID

ABSTRACT

This describes a distributed multiparty desktop conferencing system (MERMAID) and presents its preliminary brief evaluation, obtained as a result of daily use. MERMAID, which is designed based on group collaboration system architecture, provides an environment for widely distributed participants, seated at their desks, to hold real-time conferences by interchanging information through video, voice, and multimedia documents. This system is implemented by using narrow-band ISDN, high-speed data network, and UNIX-based EWSs with electronic writing pads, image scanners, video cameras, microphone-installed loudspeakers, etc. The system provides participants with the means for sharing information in such multimedia forms as video images, voice, text, graphics, still images, and hand drawn figures.

REFERENCES

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.4 INFORMATION SYSTEMS APPLICATIONS
      H.4.3 Communications Applications
          Subjects: Computer conferencing, teleconferencing, and videoconferencing

Additional Classification:
  C. Computer Systems Organization
  C.2 COMPUTER-COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
      C.2.4 Distributed Systems
          Subjects: Distributed applications

  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
      D.2.9 Management
          Subjects: Programming teams

  H. Information Systems
  H.1 MODELS AND PRINCIPLES
      H.1.2 User/Machine Systems
          Subjects: Human factors

General Terms:
Design, Human Factors