A problem-solution approach to DAO governance design: the modular DAO model
File(s)
Published version (pre-proof)
Author(s)
Jungnickel, Markus
Ferda Özdemir Sönmez
Mulligan, Cathy
Knottenbelt, William J
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Introducing a novel governance model for SpringDAO1, a decentralised autonomous organisation (DAO) to fund and manage infrastructure development in rural Africa, this paper focuses on reducing centralization and enhancing collective decision-making within a charity organization devoted to infrastructure project development. Formulated through quadratic voting and representative democracy, the model inherently addresses security and privacy concerns. By dispersing decision-making authority, it mitigates potential vulnerabilities tied to centralized structures. The design’s emphasis on addressing controversial matters through voting ensures comprehensive security validation.
Technical components are built using an open-source modular standard, Zodiac, promoting security through community inspection and swift bug fixes. The introduction of a bridge for side-chain voting enhances user accessibility and potentially reduces risks through the use of multiple chains and side-chains, reducing the single point of failure.
To showcase their functionality, the technical components are assembled into a simple DAO prototype, complete with two customized front-end applications. This design demonstrates practical solutions with potential to enhance collective decision-making, reduce centralization, and improve the efficiency of charity organizations while considering security implications along with other concerns.
Technical components are built using an open-source modular standard, Zodiac, promoting security through community inspection and swift bug fixes. The introduction of a bridge for side-chain voting enhances user accessibility and potentially reduces risks through the use of multiple chains and side-chains, reducing the single point of failure.
To showcase their functionality, the technical components are assembled into a simple DAO prototype, complete with two customized front-end applications. This design demonstrates practical solutions with potential to enhance collective decision-making, reduce centralization, and improve the efficiency of charity organizations while considering security implications along with other concerns.
Date Issued
2026-03-16
Date Acceptance
2026-03-09
Citation
Blockchain: Research and Applications, 2026
ISSN
2096-7209
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Journal / Book Title
Blockchain: Research and Applications
Copyright Statement
©2026 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of Zhejiang University Press. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
Publication Status
Published online
Article Number
100473
Date Publish Online
2026-03-16