In an effort to create a more efficient, interoperable communications environment for its ships at sea the Navy has developed the Automated Digital Network System. Because of its recent introduction into the fleet and the evolving nature of the program there has not yet been any high level operational guidance provided for communications planners and managers. The major contribution of this thesis is to describe key issues fundamental to successful mission accomplishment. Operating in a network centric environment represents a conceptual departure from standard Navy at sea communications methods. The changes in thinking necessitated by this departure are presented to highlight the need for a new approach to communications management. Analysis of program design and implementation yielded the framework for the outline of system requirements and the management considerations necessary for effective operational employment. Reviews of fundamental concepts underlying the system and program origins are provided as background material.