Abstract: A method and system for efficiently managing a time critical response to a distribution within a data processing system. The amount of time required to present a distribution to a recipient is determined in response to a receipt of that distribution at the user's station. Next, a specified time for response, action date or invalidation date is determined and a latest possible presentation initiation time is calculated which permits completion of the presentation of the distribution prior to the specified time for response or invalidation. An audible and/or textual notification is then generated and presented to the user prior to the calculated latest possible presentation initiation time, such that the user may efficiently respond to the distribution prior to the specified time for response.