Abstract: A publication system is disclosed for coordinating access to publication data and related information. The publication data typically includes text, image data and layout data. The related information is stored in an item header file, as well as in a number of records. The system includes a network of computers including computers dedicated to performing certain tasks related to obtaining publication data and such related information. To coordinate the publication process, the ability to modify text contained in an item file is limited while certain of the records that include useful information related to the same item file are separately available for other network users. The system also generates watch records to notify users of the current status of, availability of, or to provide other information related to, a publication item of interest. Algorithms are also disclosed for facilitating the writing and editing of text for an article.