1. A method for exchanging data between a plurality of clients and information sources via a server, comprising: (a) obtaining data objects from a plurality of sources, said data objects being in native formats specific to their respective sources; (b) converting said data objects to a common data format, wherein said common data format differs from said native formats; and (c) transmitting said converted data objects in said common data format to said plurality of clients, said clients configured to display said converted data objects in said common data format using a common interface, wherein said common interface operates without regard for said native formats, and wherein said common interface allows manipulation of said data objects in said common data format.