1. A barrier synchronization method comprising the steps of: in a general application process: arriving at a barrier; decrementing a local portion of a distributed counter element; checking a centralized sensor to determine whether to leave said barrier; leaving said barrier if indicated by said centralized sensor; and, in a master application process: arriving at said barrier; checking all portions of said distributed counter element to determine if all other general application processes have arrived at said barrier; and, if all other general application process have arrived at said barrier, resetting said distributed counter element and resetting said centralized sensor to indicate to said general application processes to leave said barrier.