This document has been developed to assist network managers by providing guidelines to serve as a general framework in planning for traffic management during high level congestion events or disaster conditions@ such as the following (not all-inclusive): ? Network congestion due to facility failures or abnormal calling periods ? Switch or network failures or extended outages ? SS7 network failures ? VoIP Network failures ? Natural disasters ? Pandemic events ? Major accidents ? Civil disturbances This document addresses survivability of communications networks@ as well as the services those networks provide under failure conditions. Communications networks should be designed and should operate to meet users' expectations regarding network survivability. There should be a common understanding of network survivability assessment techniques.This document references the architectures and services of communications industry segments (i.e.@ wireline@ Internet@ wireless@ cable TV@ and satellite) and provides references for further information. Purpose The purpose of this document is to assist interconnected network operators in developing and implementing strategies that ensure the continued operation of communication/facilities before@ during@ and after an incident.