Abstract: A map builder system is implemented in a topological management system in a computer system to enable generic interfacing of an application with a display map generation process. The topological management system tracks a topology of objects. The map builder system includes a map builder and a topology data repository that implements a schema. The schema comprises a series of tables containing updated topological data representing particular attributes and relationships of the objects to be depicted. The map builder interfaces the topological data within these tables with a management system application programmatic interface (API), which interfaces with applications. The map builder constructs a series of mappings from the data, and the management system API is capable of using these mappings to construct a topology representing the relevant objects. The user can view the topology from the management system API and can change the topological representation, if desired.

Abstract: A method and system with associated data structures for providing management of topological associations between objects. The methods define an application programs interface (API) which specifies a consistent approach for the design of application programs to manage topological associations between objects. Objects each represent an aspect of a resource which is useful to a particular application program. Application programs define a resource aspect type for each object to be managed by the API. Objects are specified to the API by application programs along with resource names to identify a resource. The methods and structures of the present invention automatically recognize when the resource names of an object to be managed identify the same resource as other managed objects to thereby allow information to be more readily shared among disparate application programs and to reduce redundant storage of information by those programs.

Abstract: A method and associated data constructs for sharing management information, stored in a common repository among multiple application programs. The present invention provides methods and structures for maintaining consistency and integrity of information shared among multiple application programs while allowing easier integration of management information relating to disparate aspects of enterprise management. Standard server programs are provided to serve client application programs by manipulating and retrieving information stored in the common repository. A meta-schema defines the structure of information stored in the common repository and permits extension of the information to incorporate data relevant to new application programs. In addition, tools are defined to permit developers to automate the creation of new server programs which manipulate and retrieve information stored in the common repository.