When is a blockchain required

Sujata Regoti
1 min readAug 14, 2021
Source — https://unsplash.com/photos/h5iazR-wljU

Go through simple set of questions —

Questions

1. Is high data throughput required?

Yes — Use a traditional database.

No — A central database might still be useful if other requirements are met. For example, if users trust each other, then perhaps there is no need for a blockchain. However, if they don’t or trust cannot be established for any reason, blockchain can be helpful.

2. Are updates centrally controlled?

Yes — Use a traditional database.

No — You may investigate how a public/private blockchain can help.

3. Do users trust each other?

Yes — Use a traditional database.

No — Use a public blockchain.

4. Are users anonymous?

Yes — Use a public blockchain.

No — Use a private blockchain.

5. Is consensus required to be maintained within a consortium?

Yes — Use a private blockchain.

No — Use a public blockchain.

6. Is strict data immutability required?

Yes — Use a blockchain.

No — Use a central/traditional database.

Reference book: https://www.packtpub.com/product/mastering-blockchain-third-edition/9781839213199

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