Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system, method, and apparatus for adding the benefit of object-oriented programming to conforming application programs to the specifications of telephony software interfaces and reducing the traffic load from messages generated and sent by line devices to application programs. An object-oriented interface layer is inserted between the application program which accepts objects from the application programs and causes the telephony software interface to perform a standard set of operations. From the standpoint of the telephony software interface, the object-oriented interface layer is the application program utilizing the line devices, thus causing the line devices to generate a single message to the object-oriented interface layer which distributes the message to the appropriate application programs. Accordingly, the traffic load caused by the generation of messages is reduced.

Abstract: Improved methods and arrangements are provided for actively monitoring and/or controlling calls and related features in a communications system, such as, for example, computer telephony system. A graphical user interface (GUI) is provided to visually represent the telephony resources, features, services, and users prior to, during, and after a call. An operator can interface with the computer telephony system through the selective activation and/or manipulation of graphical and iconic representations of the call, the calling party, and called party as provided through the GUI.