Overview
ISO/IEC 10164-16:1997 - “Information technology - Open Systems Interconnection - Systems Management: Management knowledge management function” (identical to ITU‑T X.750) defines the management knowledge management function within the OSI Systems Management framework. It positions the function in the OSI application layer and specifies the functional model, managed object behaviour, directory object representations, the mapping onto CMIS services, and the abstract syntax used to represent management knowledge. The standard documents requirements, service definitions and conformance rules, while explicitly not prescribing implementation techniques or authorization policies.
Key topics and requirements
- Functional scope and requirements: Identifies the set of requirements the management knowledge function must satisfy in centralized or decentralized management environments.
- Management model: Provides a behavioral model for management knowledge objects and their relationships.
- Managed objects & Directory objects: Specifies how management knowledge is realized either as managed objects or as Directory entries; includes annexes listing object and directory object definitions.
- Service mapping: Defines mapping of the function’s services onto CMIS (Common Management Information Service) and lists the MAPDU parameters used to reference managed objects.
- Abstract syntax & protocol: Specifies the abstract syntax of managed objects and protocol elements (e.g., textual representation, management information tree search elements).
- Conformance: Details static and dynamic conformance requirements and implementation conformance statement formats.
- Supporting proformas & guidance: Includes annexed proformas (MCS, MICS, MOCS, MRCS) and informative guidance on use and access options.
Practical applications
- Implementing systems management components that expose knowledge about managed objects (definitions, discovery, repertoires).
- Integrating management directories with CMIS/CMIP-based management systems to enable discovery and reuse of management information.
- Standardizing representation and interchange of management knowledge across heterogeneous network and IT management platforms.
- Producing conformance statements and documentation packages for vendors delivering management-enabled products.
Who should use this standard
- Systems management architects and designers building OSI-layer management services.
- Network and IT management product developers implementing CMIS/CMIP-compatible agents or management applications.
- Standards and interoperability teams responsible for management data models, Directory integration, and conformance testing.
- Organizations needing consistent representations of management knowledge in multi-vendor environments.
Related standards (examples)
Keywords: ISO/IEC 10164-16:1997, Management knowledge management function, OSI Systems Management, CMIS, CMIP, managed objects, management directory, abstract syntax, conformance.