A software and/or hardware database system and method (Database) having a design and algorithms to access information in the Database utilizes a model of the reality. The Database is self-organizing. The Database content is dynamic and effectively changes the Database itself. The Database uses concepts of nouns, verbs and context to classify information. The Database includes automatic cross-referencing algorithms to relate categories and items of information.

Method and apparatus are provided for mapping information from a dynamic frame-based semantic network to a static working memory by utilizing a topological sorting algorithm which processes at least one queue of frames. Preferably, the algorithm is utilized with filtering to avoid unnecessary updates. The algorithm makes a marking pass and an updating pass across the queued frames. The marking pass orders a queue of class frames. The updating pass updates working memory elements of the working memory corresponding to the ordered class frames and working memory elements which correspond to instances of the class. After the updating pass, the working memory elements reflect local and inheritable slots and values from the semantic network. Such mapping allows the working memory elements to be further processed such as by matching against rules.

A file directory structure generator and retrieval tool for use in a computer network is disclosed. The computer network comprises an output device, a local memory, a shared memory, and a local processor operating according to an operating system program and an application program. The local memory and the shared memory store files in a directory structure. Each file and level in the directory structure has network access privileges. The file directory structure generator and retrieval tool has a document locator module that maps the directory structure of the files stored in the memory to a real world hierarchical file structure of files and directories independent of conventions of the operating system. The document locator module can also change the network access privileges for files and directories without exiting the application program.

A method and system for updating data stored on a computer storage device are provided. The data is contained in records or entries. Each record or entry has a primary pointer and an indicator. The indicator initially has each bit set to a predefined bit value. When data is to be updated (and thus, the record or entry containing the data is to be superseded), at least one bit of the indicator is changed from the predefined bit value to another bit value to point to the new record or entry and to indicate that the data in the new record or entry is an update of the data in the superseded record or entry. This method and system are especially suitable to be used in a write-once computer storage device.

Document and message exchange can be facilitated using a Application Service Provider model. Assigning unique identifiers for data fields allows multiple databases to exchange information using relational databases. A project can be initiated and participants invited to collaborate using a distributed computing environment, such as the global Internet. Participants retain ownership of information by selecting the information to be shared, and optionally storing their information on databases restricted to them. Information is routed between collaborators using unique identifiers. Unique identifiers and their corresponding data fields can be mapped to a user's local computing area. Changes in documents and responses to documents can be monitored by inserting new records reflecting the changes into document tables.