Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to novel techniques for showing the progress of an automated computer process, particularly through a graphical user interface (GUI). Graphical status displays are employed which show graphical time-based information, such as rate and estimated time to completion, as well as a completion portion of an automated computer process. A remaining time indicator can be shown as a time scale for the graphical completion indicator. Instantaneous and historical rate information may be graphically displayed in various novel displays.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing task instances. The present invention includes receiving a task instance request with a unique task identifier and invoking an authorization function corresponding to the unique task identifier. The authorization function authorizes the task instance request and registers the unique task identifier if the unique task identifier is not currently registered. If the unique task identifier is currently registered, the authorization function performs a task-specific operation. In certain embodiments the present invention also includes a task repository for storing unique task identifiers and a task termination function for unregistering unique task identifiers.