A Framework for Assessing and Selecting Blockchains at Runtime

Abstract

The suitability of a blockchain for a given use case mainly depends on the user's requirements and on the blockchain's functional and non-functional properties. Requirements and a blockchain's properties may change over time, and thus, a selected blockchain may become unsuitable for a given use case. Such uncertainties pose significant risks for developers. In this paper, we present a framework that allows developers to define functional and non-functional requirements, monitors several blockchains and, based on the specified requirements, selects the best-fitting blockchain for a particular use case. If another blockchain becomes more appropriate during runtime, the framework enables a switchover to this blockchain. Our evaluation using a reference implementation shows that switching to another blockchain can save cost and enable developers to benefit from better performance and a higher level of trust.