Abstract: A system and method for building a more efficient, reliable, and scalable client-server application is provided. State information of the system is maintained in the form of cookies on the client side and as a table entry in a database on the server side. A database application may be extended to include other networked applications such as a word processor, project management and accounting software. A distributed architecture is realized which makes use of the parallel database component on the server end and provides a level of abstraction from the operating system. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).