Most U.S.Navy ships host a federation of independently designed systems where data sharing has generally been implemented through point-to-point connectivity, accompanied by complex interface design specifications. Modern networking technology, combined with well-ordered database structures, offers the opportunity for data sharing and system integration. A viable strategy to develop shipboard networks must support transition from closed systems, such as those in-service today, to open systems that will offer adaptability and flexibility. This transition must be made under two constraints. First, until modern replacements are in place, legacy systems must remain operational. Second, modern replacements must be developed within budget and at low risk. These constraints call for a phased transition stategy. This paper describes a philosophy and an approach to put the technology in place to support such a strategy. The strategy can be characterized as follows: all communications between systems occur in the abstract domain of data production and data consumption; there are common data definitions, formats, usage rules, or some accompanying interface translation; a "global data structure," a formal data-exchange paradigm, a separate data-maintenance process, and "data brokers" govern access to the data strucyture. Applicaiton of this strategy is based on structured analysis and separate definitions of "nets", sets of functions which must communicate to fulfill a mission requirement, and "networks", methods by which communications are realized. This approach and teh underlying technology have been formalized and embodied in a project known as the Developmental Command and Control Network (DCCN).
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