This is a joint-proposal by BlockOps, Dwellir, LuckyFriday, OnFinality, RadiumBlock, RockX, and Stakeworld. Valuable input to this proposal has also been made by the proposed curators.

TL;DR:

This proposal outlines a procurement strategy for public RPC services in Polkadot and Kusama ecosystems, aiming for high-quality, decentralized, and cost-effective services. It addresses the vital need for reliable RPCs, emphasizing their role in applications like Polkadot.JS and wallets. The strategy focuses on optimizing quality of service, sustainable cost, and decentralization, introducing key definitions and standards. Tenders from RPC providers can follow two models: cost targets or predefined service levels. The proposed budget is $400,000, split between Polkadot and Kusama treasuries.

Introduction

This proposal aims to implement a procurement strategy for public RPC services in the Polkadot and Kusama ecosystems. The goal is to ensure high-quality, decentralized, and cost-effective services for essential applications like Polkadot.JS and wallets. The need for robust public infrastructure was emphasized during Polkadot Decoded discussions.

Problem Statement

Reliable public RPC services are crucial for the growth of the Polkadot and Kusama ecosystems. Existing applications, such as Polkadot.js.org and Nova Wallet, require optimal functioning for an enhanced user experience. The proposal addresses the challenge of balancing service provision with sustainable treasury spending. It acknowledges the evolving role of light clients and the continued need for RPCs and bootnodes.

Proposed Strategy

The procurement strategy aims to optimize quality of service, sustainable cost, decentralization, and simplicity. Key definitions, such as curators, independent RPC monitoring, system chains, and qualified RPC providers, are outlined. Quality of Service Reports and Service Agreements form essential components, with predefined standards and penalties for non-compliance.

Tender Submission and Evaluation

A transparent process is proposed for RPC providers to submit tenders, with defined standards of service. Two potential options for tenders are presented: one focusing on cost targets and the other on predefined service levels. The curators, responsible for evaluation, scoring, and public announcement of selected providers, will ensure transparency and community involvement.

Operations Phase

RPC providers awarded service agreements are obligated to provide services throughout the six-month operations phase. Independent RPC monitoring will assess performance, and metrics will be made public. Providers will be paid monthly in arrears based on the EMA7 day average price of DOT/KSM.

Budget and Costings

The proposed budget for the program is $400,000, providing a 12-month runway for assessment. Funding will be split between Polkadot and Kusama treasuries, with curator payments of $350 per month from the Polkadot portion. The budget accounts for potential quarterly expense variations based on traffic and evolving requirements.

Read the full proposal here.

We are excited to share this proposal and are eager to hear your thoughts and feedback. Please feel free to comment, share your insights, and make suggestions to help refien this proposal further.

This proposal has been put forward by the following members of the RPC community:

BlockOps, Dwellir, LuckyFriday, OnFinality, RadiumBlock, RockX, and Stakeworld.

Bounty Proposal

This specific proposal covers the costs for Polkadot nodes, and Rococo & Westend. It also covers the stipends for the curators and the external monitoring. To calculate the requested DOT we used EMA7 on the 8th of December. Which was $5.925/DOT.