|
Even in an
environment where hypertext or dynamic hypertext is primarily used,
creation of a linear text might be necessary from time to time. An
example for a linear text in a hypertext environment might be a
progress report of a research project.
A significant
part of the information needed does not necessarily have to be
created again. Instead, it can be composed of text modules available
in the knowledge pool. However, a simple link to additional
information is often not satisfactory. There is a desire for creating
a linear text which includes all relevant information elements
itself.
If, as
mentioned above, the storage of redundant pieces of information in a
common information system is refused, the copying of text modules
needed will not constitute a satisfactory solution. Hypertext
visionaries such as Ted Nelson often expressed a desire to include
existing text in one's own text without having to copy it. The
integration of external text into one's own text demands even more
that the borrowed text is available as long as the new text. A
guarantee of existence could create the necessary preconditions and
make the integration of external texts common practice.
|
