Implementing a management system architecture framework

Any practical vision for the evolution of communications services must include a strategy for how networking vendors make it possible for service providers to manage their networks. While the Telecommunications Management Network (TMN) framework has proponents, the IP services community has shown little interest. Furthermore, operations systems developers have long attempted to produce the best framework, but the technology is outdated before it exists. This paper addresses both issues by presenting an application-driven model for integrated management. This model can be applied to either a "classic" framework orientation or a management application view. What is common between these two views are a management portal, common data models, multiple interface technologies, open and simple network element interfaces, and common operations, administration, and administration (OA&M) tools. These are the elements for which there needs to be a consistent set of interface definitions. They form the basis for the construction of next-generation management applications.