Evolution of TMN network object models for broadband management

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Telecommunications management network (TMN)-based object models need to satisfy the three objectives of interoperability, integration, and flexibility in order to support rapid provision of future broadband services. While current models are focused on interoperability, it is necessary to consider new techniques to deliver the integration and flexibility capabilities required for these services. The Open Distributed Processing Reference Model (RM-ODP), coupled with CORBA technology, has been proposed as a distributed environment to provide the integration and flexibility capabilities lacking in existing protocols. Existing protocols will continue to be widely used for broadband management interfaces as the distributed environment evolves. The challenge is to maximize the benefits of the distributed environment without compromising the benefits already delivered by the existing protocols. A multiplicity of models has been developed to differing requirements and using differing methodologies. Although there is much commonality between these models, a final stage of convergence is needed to produce a unified network model. There are outstanding issues for definition of management services, resource models, and at the computational level, which need to be resolved for successful evolution to distributed systems. However, a partnership between formal standards bodies and other organizations and consortia which exploits their complementary strengths will ensure that distributed network management of the TMN will become a reality.