1. A method for normalizing two or more encoded text data strings, said encoded text data strings being expressed as a series of characters and meta data fields, said meta data fields containing all information regarding higher order control, formatting and display for the characters, said method comprising the steps of: receiving at least two strings for comparison; determining whether both or all of the strings are in similar or different meta normal form; responsive to determining that said strings are in different meta normal forms, converting one or more strings to a selected meta normal form such that all strings are in similar meta normal forms; comparing said strings to each other on a character-by-character basis irrespective of meta data fields in each string; and determining that said strings are equivalent if said step of comparing yields a match.