The transfer of data between applications is made easy through the use of copy and paste, and notes can be taken by means of a word processor . SToMP modules are based upon distance learning principles, in which all the information and support that a student is likely to require are provided within the package. Such a large resource requires effective searching and information retrieval facilities. These are provided by the Microcosm document management system that is used to manage the documents comprising each module. The package is intended to be open and flexible.
Teaching staff can make changes to the structure or organization of the material if necessary.
It is also possible to add new hyperlinks and new resources, including any program that can operate within the Windows system. No special authoring packages are necessary. SToMP is available on CD-ROM or via password protected file transfer from Surrey University. For class use, a licence agreement permits installation onto a local network server. Paper-based supplementary materials are also available.