Object distribution systems and methods for controlling load distribution during access to objects resident on a plurality of computers attached to a communication network. Systems comprise client and server computers attached to a communication network. Client programs are resident on the client computer and objects are resident on the servers. Various objects are grouped together with other objects that perform similar functions into an object group. The methods involve receiving a request for a function performed by objects within the object group, using a distributor to select between the various objects within the object group, and providing a reference to the selected object to the client program.