System of Systems Management: A Network Management Approach

This paper presents a method of applying the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Network Management Model to the Boardman-Sauser Distinguishing Characteristics of System of Systems (SoS). The ISO model defines five conceptual areas for managing networks: performance, configuration, accounting, fault, and security. This model is both a standard and primary means for understanding the major functions of network management. The Boardman-Sauser characteristics of autonomy, belonging, connectivity, diversity, and emergence are used to recognize a SoS. These characteristics represent the fundamental "building blocks " of SoS management. In this paper the five functional areas of network management are analyzed and mapped to each of the five "building blocks" of SoS management to create a SoS Operational Management Matrix (SoSOMM). The matrix will serve as a foundation for extracting network management 'best practices' into the realm of SoS management. The proposed method will increase the overall effectiveness of SoS management practices.