Method, system and computer program product for collaboratively processing a data object in a client-server hierarchy based on meta-information associated with the object. Processing results are indicated by the server that performed the processing as updates to the meta-information associated with the data object. The PICS protocol may be used to communicate the meta-information. Digital signing and authentication of the object and associated meta-information are also described. Further, servers can determine processing by considering various factors, e.g., their current load condition; if the object is to be multicast; if the object can be cached; and/or if the specified cost and time constraints can be met. The overall processing applied to data objects can be divided between servers based on object types, steps, functions, software packages or versions/releases. Other aspects of the invention are also described.