A method includes receiving, at a model and optimization framework, a request, rendered in a first format, for a service to be implemented on a subset of a software-defined network. The request includes at least one constraint affecting implementation of the service. The method includes producing an optimized solution, rendered in a second format, for implementing the service based on the at least one constraint. The method includes translating the optimized solution to the first format and providing instructions for a cloud manager to implement the service consistent with the translated optimized solution.