Abstract: A method for translating attribute data carried in Common Management Information Protocol (CMIP) Protocol Data Units (PDUs) to/from custom designed data structures. A supplementary method for incorporating user's preferences on the data structures and the relationships between different fields in these data structures and the corresponding attribute values is also provided. The translation method automatically performs conversions between the user-designed data structures and various CMIP requests/responses automatically, and, in accordance with user's preferences. The method allows users to simplify and/or compact the storage representation of the Managed Objects by taking advantage of application specific knowledge, and by eliminating unnecessary fields from CHOICE data types in the target data structures.