[1] A net is essentially a moderated conference call conducted over two-way radio, typically in half-duplex operating conditions.
When practicable, messages relating to schedules will be transmitted by a means of signal communication other than radio.
Radio nets are like conference calls in that both have a moderator who initiates the group communication, who ensures all participants follow the standard procedures, and who determines and directs when each other station may talk.
Military nets will follow a very abbreviated and opaque version of the structure outlined below, but will still have the critical elements of opening, roll call, late check-ins, and closing.
A net should always operate on the same principle as the inverted pyramid used in journalism—the most important communications always come first, followed by content in ever lower levels of priority.