Abstract: A sliding panel configured along an edge of a GUI is associated with an application. When a panel activation event occurs, the panel slides into view, allowing the user to view the information generated by the application and to interact with the configured application. The panel automatically closes when a panel deactivation event occurs. Multiple panels can be attached to each edge of the GUI. The GUI is maintained such that the GUI representation of the sliding panel is always visible and accessible in a first portion of the GUI. A second portion of the GUI can be used to display workspace output. The content of the first portion of the GUI remains constant as a user switches from one workspace to another. The content of the first portion of the GUI therefore remains accessible from any workspace.