A Sidestream Approach Using a Small Processor as a Tool for Managing Communications Systems

of objectives through effective use of resources. Management style relates to the various approaches used in pursuit o f those same objectives. There can be various management tools contributing to an effective management solution. In this article we will be discussing one such tool. This management tool rejects an approach to communication systems management in which the management functions are physically separated from the host computers driving a communications network. These management functions are packaged on a small IBM processor base (i.e., sidestream processor) and designed for use in a centralized network management center environment. The management functions included in this sidestream processor tool relate to problem management, change management , project scheduling and tracking, network control, and network conjiguration. Today, numerous advancements in teleprocessing are resulting from rapid technological breakthroughs. However, these positive enhancements in selected areas such as functional capability and lower component costs are often accompanied by such negative factors as more costly skilled labor and management complexity. Thus, it is important to exercise good management discipline in the areas of system planning, system development, and system operation. Technology can also benefit the management system through automated management functions and lower costs for management tools. The use of such management tools almost becomes mandatory if a stable situation is desired in a continually growing telecommunications environment. One can generally characterize the teleprocessing environment of today as inadequate in real management discipline. However, successful management systems have existed since the early Copying is permitted without payment of royalty provided that (1) each reproduction is done without alteration and (2) the Journal reference and IBM copyright notice are included on the first page. The title and abstract may be used without further permission in computer-based and other information-service systems. Permission to republish other excerpts should be obtained from the Editor.