As more and more operators move towards SDN-enabled networks, it makes sense to deploy an optical distribution frame, such as the Semi-Automated Optical Distribution Frame (SAODF), that also can be SDN-enabled. In this way, a route that does not qualify for automatic routing can be debugged "on the fly," ensuring that both packet pathways and physical pathways can be manipulated to provide best-case connectivity. Express paths can then be defined to remove loads off of critical optical switches, freeing them to provide the fast switching needed to manage the network.