Blockchain-based decentralized common data environment: User requirements and conceptual framework

A common data environment (CDE) is defined as a single source of truth for all project information that facilitates continuous collaboration between stakeholders. In practice, multiple CDEs are used simultaneously, leading to a lack of data integrity, traceability, and transparency. Moreover, current centralized cloud-based CDEs are vulnerable to security risks such as data manipulation, which magnifies the lack of trust among project stakeholders. Previous studies proposing blockchain for information management focused on narrow use cases and did not encompass the whole life cycle of a built asset. This work aims to develop a framework for decentralized information management concerning all life cycle phases. First, we identify the users' needs for a CDE using desk research and an empirical approach, including semistructured interviews with industry experts. It is found that the top user requirement is integrating data scattered across multiple CDEs along the built asset's life cycle in a single source of truth. A CDE should provide an accountable and transparent record of the entire project history, integrating data from various tools utilized during the life cycle. In the final step, we propose a conceptual framework for a blockchain-based CDE where transactions from various tools used along the entire life cycle of a built asset are recorded on a blockchain linked with Inter-Planetary File Storage (IPFS) to increase the security of the files. Three illustrative use-case scenarios demonstrate the framework's applicability in the design, construction, and operation phases. The utilization of blockchain technology ensures an immutable, independent, and reliable record of all transactions, offering a comprehensive and tamper-proof history. This approach addresses gaps in previous studies and lays the foundation for establishing trustworthy product and material passports.