Abstract: A multi-tier document management system is disclosed wherein a data repository (DR) tier includes a master data repository for storing a centralized body of data. A data replication store (DRS) tier includes one or more data units for storing subsets of the data from the master repository that are relevant to the needs of the end users of the data units. A data management component (DMC) tier mediates between the data repository (DR) tier and data replication store (DRS) tier, allowing for configuration management and for performing synchronization of data. The data management component (DMC) tier may also include a configuration manager for mapping data sets to applicable end users. One or more external interfaces may be provided to the end users or customer for interfacing with the various tiers.

Abstract: A smart synchronization method and system for use in a document management system is disclosed. Upon a request for data synchronization from a remote location, the management software determines, based on network parameters and data types, the most effective algorithms for efficiently transporting the data to be synchronized over the network. In another aspect, a selective synchronization method and system is disclosed wherein the management software uses a summary of data in a request for synchronization to determine which data sets require updating. The management software synchronizes the databases using only those updates, rather than entire data sets. Network efficiency is maximized as a result.