A computer user interface for handling information objects. The interface
allows a user to make a request for information in the form of a one-time
query or a persistent query. With the one-time query, the user defines one
or more conditions in terms of attributes and values. The appropriate
classes of objects are checked and any matching objects are identified as
satisfying the query. A persistent query allows such a condition to be
active at all times so that when one or more objects are created that
satisfy the condition, those objects are identified as meeting the
condition. Other features of the user interface allow the user to define
objects and publish objects. Objects can be created or edited based on a
class whose attributes are inherited. A predefined selection of menu
options makes creating, editing and publishing objects simple and
efficient. Access controls and settings are provided to control rights to
created objects.
