an instant messaging system having logic for managing im messages and an intelligent queuing mechanism . one aspect of the present invention is a method for selectively filtering instant messages , comprising receiving an instant message and analyzing the instant message to generate a priority score . another aspect of the present invention is a graphical user interface for an instant messaging application , comprising at least one visible conversation pane for displaying relatively higher priority conversations , and at least one minimized conversation pane representing relatively lower priority conversations to the at least one minimized conversation panel .