Abstract: A data management system and a method of distributing information units within the system is provided. The system comprises a host processor and plurality of controllers connected to the host processors in a local area network configuration. Each of the plurality of controllers provides access to any user, and each is provided with data storage capacity in the form of local storage in which information units are stored. The host processor manages all information units and their movement within the system. The host processor maintains a directory of all information units stored in the controllers in the system, allowing it to route a particular information unit to a controller for delivery to one or more users at a predetermined time.