Using the Internet to provide support for distributed interactions

While technologies like group support systems have been shown to improve the interaction process of face-to-face meetings, organizations search for ways to improve the interaction process for individuals at different locations. One solution to this problem may be the use of Internet. As access to the Internet becomes more readily available, organizations are seeking ways to take advantage of the existing Internet services and capabilities to support distributed interactions such as meetings. This paper discusses how the Internet could be used to support distributed, or virtual, interactions. A discussion of the Internet, its evolution, capabilities and the services provided is followed by issues that the use of this technology raises, potential applications and their implications, and directions for future research in this area