A Model-Based System Engineering and Blockchain-IPFS Framework for Enhancing Decision-Making in National Engineering Accreditation Systems Pines

Abstract

Indonesia's national engineering accreditation system faces systemic inefficiencies, governance limitations, and data integrity challenges that hinder international recognition under the Washington Accord and impede the global mobility of engineering graduates. These shortcomings are compounded by fragmented audit trails, opaque decision-making processes, and vulnerability to credential fraud, which undermine trust in accreditation outcomes. This study aims to design a model-based system engineering framework for a blockchain-enabled accreditation system that enhances data integrity, transparency, and traceability to support evidence-based decision-making and Washington Accord compliance. A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) guided by the PRISMA protocol was conducted, synthesizing insights from 109 selected studies on blockchain implementation in accreditation and credential verification systems. The study adopts a Model-Based System Engineering (MBSE) approach using the Requirement-Functional-Logical-Physical framework to translate requirements into a structured system architecture. The proposed framework integrates Hyperledger Fabric as a permissioned blockchain network for immutable record-keeping and the InterPlanetary File System for decentralized off-chain document storage, creating a hybrid on-chain/off-chain architecture. The resulting five-layer framework comprises Participants, Digitalized Access Points, Communication, Distributed Ledgers, and Existing IT Systems layers. Key findings demonstrate that the proposed architecture significantly enhances data integrity through cryptographic verification, provides transparent and tamper-proof audit trails for all accreditation activities, enables real-time verification of document authenticity, and supports interoperability among diverse stakeholders. The framework strengthens decision-making by providing verifiable evidence for informed judgments, ensuring accountability through transparent record-keeping, and enabling cross-border trust in accreditation decisions. This research concludes that the blockchain-IPFS integrated framework offers a scalable and trustworthy pathway for transforming Indonesia's engineering accreditation system, addressing both domestic governance challenges and international compliance requirements under the Washington Accord.