Introduction

This document consolidates a set of system-level models from ISO 23257 and ISO/TR 3242 to give a data-flow-centric description framework for blockchain and distributed ledger technology (DLT) use cases. The framework enables a data flow analysis approach for blockchain and DLT use cases which has been defined in ISO 23257, successfully applied across all use cases in ISO/TR 3242 and extended in this document to display more detailed information on data flows.

The robust descriptive capabilities provided by this framework can help to improve blockchain and DLT application design and enhance interoperability. This can be beneficial for:

— clear understanding of data types and data flows in distributed ledger systems that allows for better-designed, fit-for-purpose systems;
— better governance and risk management;
— a sound basis for interoperability modelling for the use cases that require data exchange in hybrid or orchestrated systems environment.

Understanding data flows can be a necessary foundation for DLT users to ensure data privacy and data confidentiality in DLT use cases, or a decision-making basis when implementing technology selection or scheme assessment. From this perspective, data flow analysis is especially essential to scenarios which frequently involve data flows among stakeholders or devices. To illustrate the features of data flows in DLT use cases with the above characteristics, this document provides three uses cases which apply the description framework to unfold data flows among devices, data flows along with business process, as well as data flows between physical and virtual spaces. These use cases can also provide an insight into the role of data flow analysis in balancing business value maximization and risk controls.

This document is organized as follows:

— Clause 5 presents an overview of DLT data flows, including data flow categories, data categories, roles/subroles and considerations related to data flow.
— Clause 6 and Clause 7 provide analysis of typical intra-system and inter-system data flows for DLT systems.
— Clause 8 provides three DLT use cases based on a descriptive and visualization template focusing on data flows.