Adapting single-user visualization software for collaborative use

TL;DR: Sun's Java JXTA API was used to adapt an open-source molecular visualization program called Jmol and it was found that by focusing on the program's graphical user interface the software could be quickly transformed into a peer-to-peer application.

Abstract: We present our experiences with adapting single-user visualization software for Web-based collaboration. Sun's Java JXTA API was used to adapt an open-source molecular visualization program called Jmol. It was found that by focusing on the program's graphical user interface the software could be quickly transformed into a peer-to-peer application. Our positive experience implies that many useful single-user programs should be transformable into tools that make collaboration across the Web easier to initiate, more spontaneous, and supported by a wide range of visualization software.