Abstract: A node includes several devices including a memory, an active device, and an interface configured to send and receive coherency messages on an inter-node network coupling the node to another node, as well as an address network and a data network. In response to receiving a coherency message requesting an access right to a coherency unit, the interface is configured to send a first type of address packet on the address network if the global access state of the coherency unit within the node is the modified state and a second type of address packet otherwise. The memory is configured to respond to receipt of the second type of address packet by sending a data packet on the data network, regardless of whether the memory currently has an ownership responsibility for the coherency unit.

Abstract: Computer processes for carrying out almost any process may be defined as a series of steps using a plurality of standardized user-interface screens. These standardized interface screens may be linked together in predetermined orders to implement on a client computer activities for which the standardized screens are appropriate to accomplish a pre-defined process. Any number of computer processes may be developed and deployed using the standard interfaces. The computer process automatically takes a user from screen to screen, prompting the user to review or provide information or take appropriate action. Processes may be represented using metadata. Metadata may provide data to a screen rendering process running on a user's workstation with details on how to render one of a plurality of standard screens in a manner which is specific to a particular process. Metadata may be provided to define the steps of the process for enabling navigational capabilities.