a graphical call status presentation system . a computer implemented method indicates the status of a communication session using graphical user interface elements . the graphical user interface elements are displayed on a toolbar which can be part of a desktop application or the computer operating system . a state persistence agent in conjunction with application - specific macros controls the graphical user interface elements . the system keeps a user informed of the status of various components of a communication session and also prevents the user from trying to activate functions which cannot be used .