User-Oriented Networks: A Series. Part I-A. Foreword and Purpose of Series. Part I-B. Definition, Overall Goals, and Problems

Orchard-Hays, W. (1975). User-Oriented Networks: A Series. Part I-A. Foreword and Purpose of Series. Part I-B. Definition, Overall Goals, and Problems. IIASA Working Paper. IIASA, Laxenburg, Austria: WP-75-081

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Abstract

This paper is the first of a series of working papers on data processing networks of a certain type, termed User-Oriented Networks. The need for some such series of discussions is brought about by current activities at IIASA aimed at creating a telecommunications network connecting Laxenburg with various centers in the NMOs and with at least a few large computing centers. The goals of such a network differ from those of conventional, existing networks and the nature of the network, if implemented as now being discussed, will introduce a number of new operational problems. The main purpose of this series is to bring to light the kinds of problems which will be encountered and to suggest designs which will minimize the difficulties and enhance overall effectiveness.

This series is concerned only peripherally with hardware, per se. Other investigators are much better equipped to evaluate particular componentry and necessary hardware interfaces and line protocols. At the same time, however, suggestions which will be made will have strong implications for capacity and compatibility among nodal units and the interconnecting telecommunication lines. In some parts of the series, rather specific recommendations will be made for computers needed as nodal switch points.

For the most part, this series is concerned with programming considerations, both for operation of a network and for its use. The programming of application software systems or application programs on large computers is not a principle area of discussion but, of course, the requirements for such work will arise from time to time and provide major considerations for network capability. The term "programming" is used herein in a broader sense which encompasses the flow of data among nodes of the net~ork and the kind of higher-level protocols, command and con-trol languages, symbology standards, etc., which will be required.

This writer is aware that many suggestions to be made -- or their implications -- may be impractical at the present time for either financial or political reasons. However, these cannot be considered permanent constraints or the network can never be realized. On the other hand, it is not intended that anything will be suggested which is technologically or logically infeasible. In general, it is hoped that the series will arouse discussion and criticism by a number of people at IIASA. It is necessary to think very carefully about the consequences of any design decision in such a long-range and far-reaching undertaking as an international network of the kind being contemplated.

Part I-B following defines the kind of network contemplated in terms of overall goals and then discusses nine general classes of problems which are immediately foreseen. Part II will take up the inter-user communication problem and suggest an overall network design which satisfies these requirements.

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