Cellular network management goals and data-centric solutions

In this article we elaborate on the management goals of next-generation cel lular networks and describe how data-centric solutions can meet these goals . In a data-centric solution, operator applications act on a database repre sentation of the cellular network. Network operations are invoked as a cons equence to database changes, and the network, in turn, feeds the database w ith data such as network event notifications. The data-centric approach all ows a focus on data as it is specified by the business needs of network man agement. This approach is augmented with data independence to assure consis tent and flexible access of the data environment through the use of a commo n data interface. The data-centric design is contrasted with an application -centric design, and we conclude by providing suggestions on how applicatio n interface components can augment a data-centric network management soluti on.