Such an environment includes applications to convert information, processes to index and archive content, and methods to audit system activities. As we view the distributed information services model, it is useful to reflect upon roles of participants within the traditional print environment. Typically, there are authors, editors, and publishers. Editors collect information and organize it into coherent blocks. Publishers choose the distribution form, market, and audience.
Authority is determined by knowledge and function.
In the DIPP model, the role of the author is assigned to those persons who create content that is to be published. For example an administrative staff person produces a weekly agenda that traditionally had been printed and distributed. In the DIPP environment, this individual can e-mail the final document to the DIPP server. The DIPP editor works with the authors to make sure that the DIPP server functions smoothly. Editors have technical authority to adjust certain parameters of the control database sets in order to meet changing authors or create new branches of information.