The DeSciCommons

A community-driven framework for defining how decentralized science projects should operate, ensuring quality, transparency, and impact.

What are the DeSciCommons?

The DeSciCommons are a set of guidelines, standards, and best practices that will govern how DeSci projects operate. Think of them as the "constitution" for decentralized science - created by the community, for the community.

Key aspects:

  • Open standards for research data and metadata
  • Governance frameworks for Research DAOs
  • Funding distribution mechanisms
  • Quality assurance and peer review processes
  • Incentive structures for collaboration

Why Do We Need Commons?

As DeSci grows, we need shared standards to ensure:

  • Interoperability: Different DeSci projects can work together seamlessly
  • Quality: Research maintains high scientific standards
  • Trust: Clear processes that stakeholders can rely on
  • Efficiency: Avoid reinventing the wheel for each project
  • Adoption: Lower barriers for scientists to transition to DeSci

Core Components

1. Governance Standards

  • DAO structure templates
  • Decision-making processes
  • Conflict resolution mechanisms
  • Treasury management guidelines

2. Research Standards

  • Data formats and metadata schemas
  • Reproducibility requirements
  • Open notebook standards
  • Version control for research

3. Funding Mechanisms

  • Grant proposal formats
  • Evaluation criteria
  • Milestone-based funding
  • Impact measurement

4. Collaboration Protocols

  • IP and licensing frameworks
  • Credit and attribution systems
  • Cross-project coordination
  • Resource sharing agreements

The Definition Process

Creating the DeSciCommons will be a collaborative, iterative process:

Phase 1: Discovery

Survey existing DeSci projects and gather requirements

Phase 2: Drafting

Working groups create initial proposals

Phase 3: Feedback

Community review and iteration

Phase 4: Adoption

Gradual implementation by Research DAOs

How to Participate

The DeSciCommons will only succeed with broad community participation. Here's how you can contribute:

  • Join Working Groups: Focus on specific aspects like governance or data standards
  • Contribute Ideas: Share your vision for how DeSci should operate
  • Test Standards: Implement draft standards in your projects
  • Provide Feedback: Help refine proposals through constructive criticism
  • Spread the Word: Help grow the DeSci community

Enforcement and Adoption

The DeSciCommons will be enforced through:

  • Research DAOs: Funding contingent on following standards
  • Community Reputation: Projects gain credibility by adopting commons
  • Technical Integration: Tools and platforms built around standards
  • Network Effects: Benefits increase as more projects participate

Ready to shape the future of science?

Join us in defining the DeSciCommons

View Timeline