The invention sets forth a New Network Model for building and managing distributed computing networks based on a fundamental network building block referred to as a DIME; an acronym for Distributed Intelligent, Managed, Entity, and a Signaling Infrastructure. The network model enables dynamic management of the programs comprising the DIME. Five of these programs are used for implementing the functional management services commonly referred to as Fault, Configuration, Accounting, Performance and Security, or FCAPS, at the DIME level. A combination of FCAPS management and Signaling Infrastructure enables DIME based Workflows, which are groups of connected DIMEs programmed to execute in coordination with each other to produce desired results. The network model further enables basic Workflow requirements, including those of task specialization; priority based mediation; fault tolerance; reliability; and resiliency.