In general, embodiments of the invention relate to a method for modifying a targeted subset of a table row (consisting of assorted data) on a network element. More specifically, a network element agent, executing on the network element, may request that changes be applied to a portion of the assorted data, hence the targeted subset, without affecting the remainder of the table row (which may include data relevant to the responsibilities of other network element agents). Through the application of masking, changes applied only to the targeted subset may be achieved.