Total Network Data System: Environment and Objectives

Planning for computer‐based tools to help in the measurement and analysis of network traffic data began in the late 1960s. During this same period, the rapid introduction of computer technology was changing the character of the network. The network was becoming more efficient and economical but, at the same time, more sophisticated and complex. This intensified the need to provide timely and complete information to those responsible for the management, administration, engineering, and planning of the network. The computer‐based systems that were developed to meet this need are collectively called the Total Network Data System (TNDS). This paper discusses the operating environments of the network and telephone company, and provides a framework for the remainder of the papers in this issue.