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How To Configure and Utilize Cardano Improvement Proposals (CIPs)

Albert Morgan

— 4 min read

Cardano improvement proposals, commonly referred to as CIPs, are essential components that allow the Cardano network to evolve and improve over time. CIPs provide a framework for proposing new features and modifications to the blockchain through a standardized process. Understanding how to properly configure and leverage CIPs can enable developers and community members to contribute to Cardano's advancement.

What are CIPs?

CIPs are design documents that contain technical specifications for proposed changes and enhancements to the Cardano platform. These can include modifications to the core protocol as well as the introduction of new features or capabilities.

Some examples of functionality that has been added through CIPs include:

  • Support for native tokens
  • Decentralized application development capabilities
  • Voting and treasury system

CIPs contain all the necessary technical details, rationale, and implementation guidelines needed for new features to be adopted. They allow the Cardano improvement process to be transparent and inclusive for the whole community.

The CIP Lifecycle

CIPs go through different stages from initial proposal to final implementation. Here is an overview of the typical CIP lifecycle:

  • Drafting - An individual or group authors a CIP draft to propose new functionality. The draft contains details such as the scope, motivation, and technical specifications.
  • Review - The CIP editors review drafts to ensure they meet minimum standards and requirements before being merged. CIPs also receive public peer review and input during this stage.
  • Approval - For a CIP to be adopted, it must be approved through on-chain voting by the Cardano community. A multi-phase voting process takes place to achieve consensus.
  • Implementation - Once approved, developers can start working on implementing the CIP into the Cardano codebase. CIPs are included in major network upgrades.
  • Activation - After exhaustive testing on the testnet, CIPs get deployed onto the Cardano mainnet. Their new features then become a part of the live blockchain.

Configuration Steps for CIP Usage

To leverage CIPs capabilities as a developer, there are some key configuration steps to take:

Step 1: Install CIP Framework

The CIP framework contains Python tooling to generate and manage CIPs. Install it by cloning the GitHub repository and meeting the technical dependencies outlined in the documentation. This will provide the necessary templates and scripts to create draft CIPs.

Step 2: Draft the CIP

Using the Python framework, generate a new CIP draft file from the command line. Fill in all details about your proposal including motivation, requirements, design, and implementation details. Follow prevailing CIP conventions and standards.

Step 3: Format the CIP

Format the CIP file using the provided tools from the framework. This includes steps like generating a unique CIP number, inserting tables and graphics, and properly structuring with sections.

Step 4: Submit the CIP

When complete, submit the CIP to the official GitHub repository through a pull request. The editors will review it and provide feedback to help refine it. Community discussion and peer review on the draft will also take place.

Step 5: Make Amendments

Based on the feedback received, make any necessary amendments to the CIP to improve it and gain consensus. Work collaboratively to get it into good shape for approval.

Following these steps will help ensure your CIP follows the proper process and has the highest chance of success. With an approved CIP, you can then participate in its implementation and see your proposal come to life on Cardano!

The CIP process provides necessary structure and oversight but can also be complicated to navigate at times. Here are some tips on maneuvering the system smoothly:

  • Start simple - For your first CIP, tackle a smaller, self-contained enhancement instead of anything overly complex.
  • Learn by example - Review previously approved CIPs similar in scope to understand conventions.
  • Collaborate - Partner with experienced community members for advice and feedback.
  • Plan comprehensively - Consider all possible implications and edge cases in your design.
  • Communicate clearly - Use diagrams and examples to explain complex technical concepts simply.
  • Be responsive - Address all feedback from reviews transparently and make requested changes.

While challenging, with deliberate effort you can create quality CIPs that improve Cardano. The process ultimately makes the protocol more robust and decentralized.

"CIPs allow us to build Cardano transparently and inclusively. With patience and care, we can evolve the ecosystem thoughtfully together." - Article Author
  • Modularize large CIPs into multiple smaller proposals if needed.
  • Leverage testnets to trial implementations before mainnet deployment.
  • Frame requests respectfully during heated community debates.

How Can CIPs Influence Cardano's Future?

CIPs are the driving force for realizing Cardano's long-term vision. They allow the blockchain's capabilities to continuously expand in a decentralized way. Here are just some of the ways CIPs can shape Cardano's future evolution:

  • Enable new features - CIPs will implement cutting-edge functionality like multi-party computation and quantum resistance.
  • Improve performance - Proposals can optimize transaction throughput, network speeds, and scalability.
  • Enhance security - Security improvements will harden Cardano against threats and attacks.
  • Facilitate adoption - CIPs can add support for more assets, smart contracts, dApps, and UX improvements.
  • Transition to governance - Eventually CIPs will govern all protocol changes as Cardano becomes a fully decentralized ecosystem.

By leveraging CIPs, we can build the Cardano platform to be exactly how we envision it. They provide the essential tools to make that vision an achievable reality.

How Do CIPs Compare to EIPs on Ethereum?

Since Ethereum improvement proposals (EIPs) have a similar purpose as CIPs, some may wonder how they compare:

  • Approval process - EIPs use an editor process while CIPs rely on on-chain voting for approval. Both however allow community discussion.
  • Language - Originally EIPs were not limited to a standard language while CIPs require usage of Python.
  • Focus - CIPs have a more narrow focus on core protocol changes versus EIPs which are more broader.
  • Hierarchy - CIPs utilize a flat proposal structure while EIP offer different proposal classes.

Overall, CIPs take inspiration from EIPs but also have their own unique attributes tailored to Cardano. Both ultimately enable crucial improvements through an open, collaborative process.

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