multiple functions in php and getting results after each one

multiple functions in php and getting results after each one

I am working on a script that builds a user in our system. I compile all
the data, and end up with a form POST array with all the data i need. What
i need to do is fire off a list of functions that will build the user out
in our system. After each function, i want to return the status to the
page so the user can see whats happening...something like this.
Building User, while its working, display spinner,done.
Building Email, while its working, display spinner,done.
Building Address, while its working, display spinner,done.
etc....
clearly php wont work, im guessing ajax? how would i begin? first i would
need to get the POST into jquery vars.... and then fire off ajax function
for user, get response, then fire off ajax function for email, and so
on....
I have no code because I don't even know where to start.