DAD: a real-time expert system for monitoring of data packet networks

A project is described that has two goals: to explore the use of expert systems techniques for developing advanced operation support systems and to build a useful tool to assist the operators of the Canadian National Datapac network to cope with the rapid growth and evolution. Progress in developing and evaluating an advanced prototype system, DAD (Datapac Advisor), is reported. The prototype´s environment and each of its functional components are described. The knowledge based design techniques used are highlighted, and the testing methodology and the results of a technical trial are described. Key findings are summarized, and their significance for the development of future network operation support systems is discussed.<>