. Developing applications for Computer Supported Collaborative Work (CSCW) is a complicated process, in particular if aimed at synchronous, distributed cooperation. Here we show how rapid application development is nevertheless possible through a well-engineered combination of an object-relational database, a scripting facility based on an extension of Tcl/Tk, and standard Web technology. The approach also supports spontaneous, short term collaboration because elaborate distribution schemes of application specific code are not required. Rather, a standard plug-in, which is available for all major browsers, is sufficient. Our argument is supported by examples from a collaborative management tool development. 1 Synchronous Collaboration - the Road Ahead It is generally agreed that of all computer-supported collaboration forms, the synchronous (same time), distributed (different place) mode is the most promising, yet most difficult one [Baecker et al., 1995]. Application areas ...