Abstract: A computer-implemented method for handling a microflow includes receiving a workflow request that includes a task associated with the workflow and a contact address associated with the task, performing an operation associated with receiving the workflow request that includes at least one of opening a communication session with the contact address and sending a response to the workflow request to the contact address. The method further includes storing the task, prioritizing the task, and performing an operation associated with execution of the workflow including at least one of opening a communications session with the contact address, sending a status associated with performance of the task, and sending a completion status of the task.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for handling a workflow includes receiving a workflow request that includes a task to be performed and a contact address associated with the task, and sending a message to the contact address such as an acceptance or rejection of the workflow request, a status regarding performance or completion of the task, an inquiry about the task, or a request to open a communications session for discussing the task. The method further includes storing the task in a workflow queue in a memory, dynamically prioritizing the task, and presenting an indication of one of the task, the workflow request, a message, and a request to open a communication session at a human-machine interface such as a display.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for handling a microflow includes receiving a workflow request that includes a task associated with the workflow and a contact address associated with the task, performing an operation associated with receiving the workflow request that includes at least one of opening a communication session with the contact address and sending a response to the workflow request to the contact address. The method further includes storing the task, prioritizing the task, and performing an operation associated with execution of the workflow including at least one of opening a communications session with the contact address, sending a status associated with performance of the task, and sending a completion status of the task.

Abstract: A method for analyzing performance of a microflow can include logging a summary of information associated with a plurality of messages of the microflow that relates to a task and a contact address, logging a time stamp for each of the messages, logging a time stamp associated with performance of the task, and analyzing the information and time stamps to determine a metric relating to the microflow. The method can further include logging a summary of information associated with communication sessions, and the logging of the content of the messages. The metric can be compared to metrics of other microflows to evaluate the performance of a task of the microflow and evaluate messaging and communication sessions opened during execution of the microflow.

Abstract: A system for network accounting statistics collection including a statistics collector associated with each packet forwarding engine. Each statistics collector has one or more accounting elements, each of which includes some number of counters, such as packet and byte counters. Each statistics collector receives accounting instructions from the associated forwarding engine for packets processed by the forwarding engine, including packets that will be discarded without being forwarded. Each accounting instruction includes an identifier uniquely indicating one of the accounting elements, and information used to increment the counters within the accounting element. Upon receipt of an accounting instruction, the receiving statistics collector increments the counters in the accounting element. The accounting instruction is a relatively simple primitive operation in the disclosed system, enabling high-speed operation.

Abstract: Triggering events in an electronic calendar schedule prompt modifications to responses to incoming communications. Different types of triggering events prompt different response modifications to different types of incoming communications. Response modifications may include setting a temporary voice greeting during a meeting scheduled in the calendar, and temporarily suspending an instant messaging session. Similarly, call redirection, out-of-office email alerts, and remote notification may be set during a business trip scheduled in the calendar. Other response modifications may be based on date, day of the week, and time of day.

Abstract: A computer interface for facilitating collaboration using tools from different vendors includes an information base and a communications manager. Files created or shared in association with a collaboration may be automatically associated with a particular collaboration to facilitate access by all members. The information base may include a list of files associated with the collaboration, a folder with icons representing files and messages previously shared, and a calendar for scheduling events associated with the collaboration. The communications manager includes a list of applications available for use in conjunction with the collaboration, including communications tools, and a list of members of the collaboration. The interface is generated by a collaboration object which includes the files associated with the collaboration and code for interacting with the various, different applications employed by the members of the collaboration.