A typology of blockchain recordkeeping solutions and some reflections on their implications for the future of archival preservation

Abstract

This paper presents a synthesis of original research documenting several cases of the application of blockchain technology to land transaction, medical, and financial record keeping. Using a thematic synthesis of the cases, the paper describes a typology of blockchain solutions for managing current records representing three distinct design patterns. It then considers the different types of solutions in relation to implications for recordkeeping and long-term preservation of authentic records.