Tài liệu WebChat part 1

OVERVIEW
WebChat is a useful CGI program that allows a number of people on the
World Wide Web to talk to one another simultaneously. It differs from a
BBS (bulletin board system), in which the messages are typically read
hours or days after they are posted. The ability to chat on the Web can be
a quick way to hold a “virtual meeting.” Figure 26.1 shows an example of
what WebChat looks like.
Although both WebChat and WebBBS store messages for other people
to read, there is a major difference in how the user sees and posts
messages. The BBS emphasizes long-term storage of messages, including
statistical data such as the date and time the message is posted. The BBS
also encourages users to branch out into different topics in “threads” of
replies.
On the other hand, WebChat emphasizes the quick posting of small
messages much like a conversation among a group of people. Dialogue is
designed to flow swiftly in small, easily digested chunks. Additionally,
because the topic is being discussed by everyone at the same time, there
is little room for different people discussing many different things in the
same chat session. Thus, there is no reason to keep track of different
threads of conversation.