ISO Interoperability Framework

Industry Initiatives

Overview

Initiative Name	Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technology Interoperability Framework
Organization	ISO
Type	Standard
Description	The goal is to specify a framework, recommendations and requirements for interoperability between between DLT systems, and between DLT and non-DLT systems.
Ecosystem	Agnostic
Public Participants	Quant Network QualitaX Other confirmed confidential participants
Date Started	2018
Status	Draft - Under development
Link	https://www.iso.org/standard/82098.html

The ISO Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technology Interoperability Framework (ISO/WD TS 23516) was initiated by Quant Network in 2018. The framework provides a holistic, high-level conceptual architecture and explores considerations for interoperability between DLT systems as well as between DLT and non-DLT systems. In its current state, it does not provide implementable technical specifics and does not analyze in detail complex real-world scenarios involving multiple heterogeneous chains, legacy systems, and dynamic governance. As such, it is closer to an architectural blueprint than a detailed technical specification. Its broad scope provides a good starting point to get a comprehensive understanding of the different interoperability scenarios, interoperability layers, and interoperability modes involved in enterprise crosschain interoperability.

It is important to note that the framework is currently under development. Yet, it is already designed to be compatible with other ISO standards and relevant industry-specific regulations. Considering the importance of ISO standards in regulated sectors, and as it evolves to incorporate more technical specifics and practical implementation guidance, the ISO interoperability framework could become an authoritative standard for shaping the future of interoperable blockchain systems in regulated environments.

Organizations aiming for global recognition and best practices in blockchain interoperability should consider staying up to date and monitoring the evolution and updates of the ISO Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technology Interoperability Framework.

Analysis

Scope and Purpose
Target Audience	Technologists, Researchers, Industry Professionals, and Regulatory Authorities.
Coverage	Foundational interoperability concepts, architecture, and high-level use cases, emphasizing regulated settings.
Technical Aspects
Architecture	Suggests a multi-layered architecture for handling various interoperability challenges.
Interoperability	Provides a taxonomy of interoperability types and emphasizes the need for standardized interfaces.
Security Considerations	Underscores the importance of secure interoperability mechanisms; specific protocols are not detailed.
Adoption and Implementation
Vendor-agnostic Reference Implementation	N/A
Current Adopters/Vendor Implementations	Quant Network is working with the Bank of England (CBDC pilot project). Other specific adopters are not known and are probably limited if any.
Case Studies	Focuses on conceptual and architectural aspects; no specific real-world examples are provided.
Ease of Implementation	This framework does not provide detailed functional and technical requirements.
Governance and Update Mechanism
Oversight Body	ISO/TC 307 committee.
Update Mechanism	Periodic reviews and updates, involving member countries and experts.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Advantages	Comprehensive nature, provides a good primer for understanding different facets of interoperability between DLT systems, and between DLT and non-DLT systems.
Challenges	Broad scope, does not provide technical specifications and does not provide implementation guidance on specific interoperability challenges.
Compatibility and Integration
Inter-standard Compatibility	Guidelines framed to ensure compatibility with other ISO standards and external standards.
Extensibility	Modular architecture proposed ensures adaptability to future technological advancements.
Community and Support
Community Engagement	There are currently no active community engagement efforts. ISO has a broad international community of experts and stakeholders. However, contributions and review opportunities are currently limited to representatives of national standards bodies.
Support Channels	ISO offers documentation, workshops, and seminars.
Future Roadmap
Next Step	Finalize the framework, ready for publication as an official ISO standard.
Long-term Vision	Establish a globally recognized framework for DLT interoperability.
Comparative Analysis
Comparative Analysis	The framework is a good primer and offers one of the most comprehensive high level architecture in the space, addressing blockchain interoperability challenges with a structured approach. Stands out due to ongoing effort and the impact of ISO standards in regulated sectors. Industry initiative with similar scope IEEE Standard for Blockchain Interoperability.

Reviewer

Proposed reviewer: Dr Luke Riley, Head of Innovation - Quant Network

Review status: Reviewed. Approved.