Agile semantic conflict detection in real-time collaborative systems

Abstract

Real-time collaborative systems allow geographically dispersed users to concurrently work on shared artifacts. Conflict detection and management present major challenges in the design of those systems. In this paper, we propose a novel technique for detecting “combine-related” semantic conflicts in real-time collaborative systems. It can maximally capture the semantics of conflicting “combine-based” operations and help users analyze conflicts from different perspectives. The technique can provide maximal agility in detecting semantic conflicts among operations with intricate interrelations. It can also significantly improve users' understanding of the conflicts towards finding suitable solutions. The technique is particularly useful for conflict detection and resolution in semantic-rich collaborative systems such as word processing systems, CAD systems, image processing systems and digital media design systems.