Abstract: A network topology data record provides a information upon the basis of which a network topology can automatically be generated. A topology resolution record can include network element or shelf/path data, as well as relationship data including a network element grouping identifier, such as a site identifier. The record can also include affiliation data, such as line adjacency, associated shelf adjacency, photonic adjacency, and service layer device adjacency. A network topology is generated, without user input, based on the automatically discovered network topology information. Topology resolution data is stored at the network level, without need for interaction with a management layer. The data record also enables a graphical user interface for network management in which a user can switch and zoom between a plurality of views in a context-sensitive manner, each view showing relationship or interconnection information for the network elements.