1. A method of exchanging information via an annotation, comprising: providing a first interface allowing a first user to view query results including a first data object, select the first data object from the query results, and create an annotation with a scope encompassing the selected first data object, whereby the annotation annotates the selected first data object with metadata describing the selected first data object, and wherein the first user is authorized to view the first data object; providing an interface element allowing the first user to further associate the annotation with a second data object, whereby the annotation annotates both the first data object and the second data object, and wherein the first user is not authorized to view the second data object; providing a second interface allowing a second user to view query results including the second data object, wherein the second user is authorized to view the second data object; and providing, in the second interface, an indication of the annotation to the second user.