Xanadu is a proposed global hypertext system that was described by computer visionary Ted Nelson in his 1987 book tided Literary Machines. It differs from the World Wide Web, although both use hypertext principles. In contrast to the Web, hyperlinks would incorporate the linked data where a hyperlink is inserted, creating the impression of a seamless document. To make sure all authors received recognition and some compensation for the incorporation of their work in others’ documents, it would track all of such incorporations, and if the author desired, charge a small fee for them. Also, the system would assure that no broken links existed (this is a significant problem on the Web). Despite considerable funding and development sponsored by CAD software maker Autodesk in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Nelson has not been able to bring his concept to market. The code has since been released on an open-source model in the hope that volunteer programmers will help Nelson carry the project forward.
Xanadu
