This paper is concerned with modelling the process of service and resource discovery and allocation with specific emphasis on the management of that process. Its scope ranges from local low level discrete resources, e.g. finding and using network elements, through network services, e.g. establishing communications facilities, on to the highest level global service offerings, e.g. discovering suitable VPNs and subsequent negotiation with them. The discovery and allocation of both services and resources may be treated symmetrically.