Network management and control systems and strategic issues

The development of a network management strategy and a network control system for the large integrated telecommunications network (ITN) at American Express Travel Related Services Company is discussed. Network control relates to operational activities such as the diagnostics, configuration, monitoring, and performance of networks, and network management relates to all of the functions performed to manage network resources. An architecture that addresses both control and management requirements is described. Network control functions are consolidated so that operations have a single interface to the system and can operate dissimilar systems from a single workstation. NETVIEW, a licensed IBM software, performs the functions of a focal point, and the network element management system (NEMS) addresses the management of network elements. The centralization of alarms and/or alerts and issuance of commands provides immediate capability to monitor and resolve network problems through a single set of terminals as well as a platform for further automation through the use of artificial intelligence technology.<>