Proposal to Establish the Arbitrum Research & Development Collective
This is a Non-Constitutional proposal.
Abstract - This proposal aims to fund the Arbitrum Research & Development Collective to aid in turning Arbitrum DAO membersâ ideas into reality for a term of 6 months.
Motivation - The ARDC's role in reviewing and enhancing governance proposals, conducting code reviews for security, providing quantitative analysis for economic risk, and fostering active delegate engagement will contribute significantly to the growth and success of the Arbitrum ecosystem. It will provide valuable tools and reports for proposal authors, helping them refine their ideas and make better-informed decisions.
Rationale - the ARDC's primary mandate aligns with the strategic priorities of the ArbitrumDAO, particularly in terms of governance optimization, risk management, research, and security. By funding the ARDC, the ArbitrumDAO can enhance its governance framework and future-proof the ecosystem through specialized verticals dedicated to these critical areas.
Steps to Implement - Steps to Implement - The AIP will move to Snapshot on the 11th of December 2023. Following the conclusion of the Snapshot vote, the AIP will then proceed to the on-chain voting stage so as to ratify the funding & process for the Arbitrum Research & Development Collective. Once the forecited steps are concluded, @Immutablelawyer will be announcing the starting date of the election process.
Specifications & Timeline - Specifications & timeline can be found in the following sections.
Overall Cost - Fund the ARDC with 1.715 Million ARB + Multi-Sig Budget for a 6-Month Term
- 665,000 ARB [Security] [Applicable Cap]
- 665,000 ARB [Research] [Applicable Cap]
- 335,000 ARB [Risk] [Applicable Cap]
- 50,000 ARB [DAOAdvocate]
- 5,000 ARB per month - Multi-Sig members
- 16.0000 ARB - ImmutableLawyer [as retroactive payment for Research, draft and reviews of of the ARDC Proposal + Coordinating individually across stakeholders, community members & delegates] + management & administration of the pre-election application process & the election process itself until all members are appointed & the ARDC is fully operational. as envisaged in this proposal.
Total: 1,761,000 ARB
Proposal TL;DR
- The ADPC (ArbitrumDAO Procurement Committee) has the immediate mandate of overseeing the âProcurement Framework for Security Service Providersâ recently ratified by the ArbitrumDAO.
- The ADPC may add additional procurement frameworks that will be ratified through Snapshot.
- The committee will research and propose a subsidy fund for security-oriented services within the Arbitrum Ecosystem. A âMeans Testâ will be implemented to determine project eligibility for security service-fee subsidies.
- The ADPC will establish procurement frameworks for various verticals and service types within the ArbitrumDAO.
- Three members will be elected to the ADPC through Snapshotâs weighted voting system.
- Eligibility criteria for members include experience, integrity, conflicts of interest disclosure, industry knowledge, analytical skills, financial acumen, communication skills, negotiation skills, project management abilities, ethical conduct, teamwork, technology proficiency, and decision-making skills.
- The election process involves application submission, KYC/KYB review, and member election via Snapshot.
- The ADPCâs term is 6 months, with a monthly stipend of 7,500ARB for elected members.
- Operational parameters include meeting minutes, monthly reports, bi-weekly calls, and a public dashboard.
- The ADPCâs Multi-Sig will be a 3/5 with signers receiving 1,000 ARB per month for their services. Signers cannot be Procurement Committee members.
- Streaming of funds and clawback capabilities are implemented for multisig accountability.
- The ADPC will be regulated via an Agreement with the Arbitrum Foundation.
- The Agreement will cover appointment, conflict of interest, mandate, record-keeping, duty of impartiality, recusal, self-dealing prohibition, and ethical trading standards for ADPC members.
Executive Summary
This proposal intends to formalize a structured group within the ArbitrumDAO (the âArbitrumDAO Procurement Committeeâ or âADPCâ) responsible for overseeing and managing Procurement Frameworks that are ratified by the ArbitrumDAO from time to time depending on the needs of the organization. The ADPCâs primary purpose is to ensure that procurement activities are conducted efficiently, transparently, and in compliance with the applicable framework/s.
Overview
The ADPCâs immediate mandate will be that of facilitating & administering the recently ratified âProcurement Framework for Security Service Providersâ [REF:Proposal [Non-Constitutional]: **Procurement Framework [Security Service Providers]** 11 & Snapshot 4]. This mandate can be supplemented by virtue of a Snapshot vote whereby the ArbitrumDAO may add another procurement framework that the Procurement Committee will be responsible to administer & facilitate.
Composition of the ADPC [Mandate, Eligibility, Election Process, Funding, Operational Parameters]
[i] MANDATE
- The primary mandate of the ArbitrumDAO Procurement Committee (ADPC) is to oversee and facilitate the recently ratified procurement framework for security-oriented service providers within the Arbitrum Ecosystem, as per the following reference: [Snapshot Proposal Link: Snapshot 4]. In this capacity, the ADPC bears the responsibility of diligently executing the steps essential to implement the aforementioned procurement framework in a manner characterized by transparency and efficiency.
- The ADPC will be tasked with researching & drafting a proposal to the ArbitrumDAO to set up a subsidy-fund for security-oriented services that will be used to subsidize the costs for security-services for smaller projects within the Arbitrum Ecosystem.
- The ADPC will be tasked with researching & implementing a framework that will establish a set of qualitative & quantitative metrics that will be utilized so as to assess a projectâs eligibility for the âSubsidy Fundâ referred to in point [b] above. This âMeans Testâ (as referred to in traditional administrative practices), will be bundled in with the proposal that will set up the subsidy fund referred to in [b]. The Means Test will be used to assess whether a project is eligible for security service-fee subsidies. Initially, this methodology will only be applied to security-oriented services. However, this does not preclude the application of this same concept to other verticals within the ArbitrumDAO.
- The ADPC will be tasked with establishing procurement frameworks for a myriad of verticals/service-types that the ArbitrumDAO could need in the foreseeable future. This proactive approach towards procurement will naturally aid in ensuring that projects within the Arbitrum Ecosystem have immediate access to high-quality whitelisted service providers when the need arises. In this regard, all procurement frameworks developed by the ADPC will need to be ratified through a Snapshot vote by the ArbitrumDAO.
- The ADPC will be tasked with creating & communicating guidance notes & circulars that will substantiate & provide additional detail in relation to any procurement framework that is ratified by the ArbitrumDAO from time to time. The aim of these guidance notes & circulars is to provide prospective applicants going through the procurement process with the necessary information that would enable them to satisfactorily complete the steps of the corresponding procurement framework.
The ADPC will be composed of three [3] members that will facilitate & administer procurement frameworks as ratified by the ArbitrumDAO from time to time. The appointment of ADPC members will be effected via an open election process via Snapshotâs weighted voting system; wherein the first three [3] ranked members in the vote will be elected to the ADPC. Albeit not legally binding, when voting for prospective members of the ADPC, delegates & token holders alike should prioritize the following eligibility criteria so as to properly equip the ADPC to carry out its mandate.
[ii] ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Albeit not being legally binding, prospective voters looking to assess election applicants should in-principle conduct their assessments in light of these criteria.
Experience
- A demonstrated knowledge of procurement principles & best practices;
- In-depth knowledge of procurement frameworks as ratified by the ArbitrumDAO from time to time;
- At least 3 years experience in Legal, Operations or Administrative role.
Integrity
- Disclosure of any involvement in ethical breaches, fraud, manipulation, or other forms of misconduct, whether in the past or present.
- Failure to provide accurate and complete disclosure of such information will result in the forfeiture of the applicantâs eligibility upon the discovery of this information.
Conflicts of Interest and Independence of Mind
- Disclosure is required for any actual or potential conflicts of interest that may emerge upon being selected for the role applied for.
- This includes any factors that may impair oneâs ability to carry out decisions with sound, objective, and independent judgment.
Industry Knowledge
- A comprehensive grasp of industry-specific service procurement challenges, procurement frameworks, and prevailing best practices.
- Previous experience drafting governance proposals.
Analytical Skills for Service Contracts
- Robust analytical capabilities for evaluating and negotiating service contracts, including service-level agreements (SLAs) and performance metrics.
- The ability to identify and assess risks associated with service procurement decisions.
Financial Acumen (Service Costs)
- A firm grounding in financial aspects of service procurement, including budgeting, cost analysis, and financial implications.
Communication Skills
- Exceptional communication abilities, both oral and written, for interactions with service providers, stakeholders, and fellow committee members.
- The capacity to convey complex service procurement information clearly and effectively.
Negotiation
- A high degree of proficiency in negotiating service agreements and SLAs to secure favorable terms, pricing structures, and quality standards with service providers should the need arise.
- The ability to build and maintain positive relationships with service providers.
Project Management Abilities
- Proficiency in project management related to service procurement, including project planning, execution, and performance monitoring.
- The capability to manage timelines, resources, and deliverables effectively for service projects.
Ethical Conduct
- An unwavering commitment to ethical conduct in all service procurement activities, ensuring transparency and fairness in service provider whitelisting & facilitation.
Team Player
- The ability to function effectively as a team player within the committee and collaborate with other organizational departments, stakeholders, and service providers.
- Willingness to consider diverse perspectives and reach consensus on service procurement decisions.
Technology Proficiency
- Familiarity with service procurement software and tools for managing service procurement processes, data analysis, and reporting.
- Previous experience with Asana/Airtable.
- Previous experience with Multi-Sigs.
Decision-Making Skills
- Sound judgment and decision-making skills to make informed and strategic service procurement choices aligned with the organizationâs service procurement strategy.
[iii] ELECTION PROCESS
We propose adapting section 4 of the ArbitrumDAO Constitution & optimizing it to apply to the election for ADPC Members [REF: The Amended Constitution of the Arbitrum DAO | Arbitrum DAO - Governance docs 1]. Hereunder, we propose an adapted model of Section 4 of the ArbitrumDAO Constitution to implement in the ADPC Elections.
The ADPC election process is scheduled to begin 3 business days from the ratification of the on-chain proposal that will secure the funding for the ADPC.
The date chosen for the first election will form the basis for all future elections. Every election should begin 6 months after the previous election has been finalized.
All ADPC committee members are expected to serve their term unless terminated by the ArbitrumDAO through Snapshot as stipulated in the Agreement regulating the ADPC [Further details below re. the Agreement & Defining provisions in the Checks & Balances section].
There will be one election with the first three [3] ranking members in the weighted voting Snapshot being elected to the ADPC.
[iv] PROCEDURE & ELECTION TIMELINE
- Application Submission (T+7 business days):
Anyone may submit an application on a dedicated page on the ArbitrumDAO Forums in conformity with the application template stipulated hereunder;
- KYB/KYC + Delegate Review Period (7 business day period following the end of Application Submission Period):
Applicants who would have validly submitted their applications in conformity with the application template will then be required to undergo KYC/KYB processes. All candidates will cooperate with the Arbitrum Foundation and complete the compliance process. The Arbitrum Foundation is responsible for removing any candidates who fail the compliance process. Only applicants who pass KYB/KYC will be eligible for the ADPC election.
- Member election (7 business day period following the end of KYB/KYC + Delegate Review Period):
A Snapshot with weighted voting will be put up, including the list of all eligible candidates. The three [3] highest voted candidates will be elected to the Procurement Committee.
The ArbitrumDAO may approve and implement a Non-Constitutional AIP to change the rules governing future ADPC elections, but the AIP process may not be used to intervene in an ongoing election.
[v] ELECTION APPLICATION TEMPLATE
Applicant Information:
Name of Applicant & Applicantâs Representative [If Applicable]:
Email Address:
Telegram Handle (if applicable):
LinkedIn Profile (if applicable):
Primary languages spoken:
Disclosure of other time commitments:
Experience
[Refer to Eligibility Criteria] Please provide a brief overview of your experience in the digital asset industry and, more specifically, the Ethereum & Arbitrum Ecosystems. Include any relevant projects, contributions, or roles within the ArbitrumDAO, if applicable. (400 words max)
Objectives & Motivation
Explain how you envision contributing to the primary mandate of ADPC (300 words max)
Integrity
Disclose any past or present involvement in ethical breaches, fraud, manipulation, or other forms of misconduct. If you have no history of such activities, please explicitly state this. (300 words max)
Skills and Experience
[Refer to Eligibility Criteria] Provide details about your relevant skills and experience in Legal, Operations & Admin, including any previous work or contributions related to the mandate of the ADPC (300 words max)
Industry Knowledge
Explain your understanding of the specific industry or sector related to the services in which the ADPC will operate, especially in the context of procurement. (300 words max)
Financial Acumen (Service Costs)
Describe your experience and capabilities in budgeting, cost analysis, and understanding financial implications related to service procurement. (300 words max)
Negotiation
Highlight any previous experience in negotiating service agreements, securing favorable terms, pricing structures, and quality standards with service providers. (300 words max)
Project Management Abilities
Provide examples of your project management skills related to service procurement, including planning, execution, and performance monitoring. Include references to any relevant tools that youâve utilized in this regard. (300 words max)
Technological Proficiency
Kindly detail your experience with service procurement software and tools, focusing on key insights gained from your prior use of platforms such as Asana/Airtable and Multi-Sigs. Additionally, list any other relevant software and tools that you might have utilized or consider pertinent in this domain. (300 words max)
SUMMARY
In summary, please highlight your key qualifications and what you believe you can bring to ADPC. (400 words max)
Feel free to attach any relevant documents, portfolios, or links to previous work or contributions.
[vi] FUNDING, TERM & OPERATIONAL PARAMETERS
FUNDING
Elected members of the ADPC will receive a comprehensive compensation package as part of their service during their 6-month term. This package includes a monthly stipend of 7,500ARB to support them in their roles and responsibilities within the ADPC.
TERM
The duration of the ADPCâs mandate will be of 182 days [6 months] from the moment the on-chain proposal that funds the ADPC is approved by the ArbitrumDAO.
OPERATIONAL PARAMETERS
- Meeting minutes will be taken for every meeting and published on a public Notion site for review by the ArbitrumDAO;
- Monthly report detailing performance of the ADPC;
- Bi-weekly calls with the community in relation to the ADPC;
- Public Asana/Airtable dashboard to be utilized by ADPC members to submit updates on specific tasks and sub-tasks and thus, keeping the ArbitrumDAO in the loop.
We believe this eliminates information asymmetry while allowing ADPC members to conduct their work in the most efficient possible manner. For token holders and the community, they can quickly go to these operational dashboards and see ADPC progress. These dashboard will also grant applicants going through the procurement process insight into internal timelines & progress, thus ensuring a high degree of transparency operationally.
ADPC [Multi-Sig]
The ADPCâs 3/5 multisig is being created. The funds in the multisig belong to the ArbitrumDAO and the signers act as Multi-Sig administrators on behalf of the ArbitrumDAO in coordination with the Arbitrum Foundation. Signers will receive 1,000 ARB per month for their contribution. Funds held in the multisig are explicitly banned from usage in ArbitrumDAO governance including delegation. The multisig includes:
The ADPC multisig includes two features to ensure accountability of signers and grantees:
- Streaming of funds to the multi-sig every second week for the ADPCâs term using Hedgey. The ArbitrumDAO will maintain control over this stream and have the ability to cut it off with an on-chain vote.
- Clawback capability so the ArbitrumDAO can retrieve funds if the multisig violates the agreement via an offchain vote.
CHECKS & BALANCES
The ADPC will be regulated via an Agreement entered into by all elected ADPC Members with the Arbitrum Foundation serving as a counterparty to the Agreement.
The Agreement will be made public & include, but will not be limited to the following provisions:
Appointment & Termination: ADPC Members will be appointed via the forecited election process in accordance with ArbitrumDAO Consent by the Arbitrum Community.
- Arbitrum Community will be defined as follows:
âArbitrum Communityâ means those persons who have the right to propose and vote on proposals ergo, the token holders of the ARB token with the following contract address [0x912CE59144191C1204E64559FE8253a0e49E6548] from time to time visible at [$1.38 | Arbitrum (ARB) Token Tracker | Arbiscan].
- ArbitrumDAO Consent will be defined as follows:
âArbitrumDAO Consentâ means a vote of the ArbitrumDAO Community in favour of a proposal satisfying the minimum requirements set forth at The Amended Constitution of the Arbitrum DAO | Arbitrum DAO - Governance docs 1 (as such minimum requirements set forth therein on the date hereof may be revised from time to time with ArbitrumDAO Consent) taken by any of the following means:
- Snapshot 2 (or any successor thereto); or
- another mechanism, whether on or off a blockchain, that ensures only and all people voting hold or have been delegated blockchain-based tokens known as ARB.
Conflict of Interest Provision: ADPC Members will be bound to act in absolute good faith, utmost honesty, refraining from deriving unauthorized profits from their position & disclose conflicts of interest. ADPC members should always disclose any potential or actual conflicts of interests to other ADPC members who will then proceed to mitigate the respective ADPC Memberâs involvement in the task in relation to which such ADPC Member is conflicted.
To sum up, all ADPC Members must declare the nature and extent of any interest, direct or indirect, which the ADPC Member is aware that she, he or it has in a proposed task at hand.
Mandate & Purpose of the ADPC: The ADPC members are pivotal in executing the purposes of the ADPC, ensuring that the activities thereof align with the ADPC Mandate objectives and the stipulations of ratified proposal.
Record-keeping and Reporting: Comprehensive and precise record-keeping is imperative. ADPC Members will be required to maintain detailed accounts and documentation of the ADPCâs internal operational workflow together with meeting minutes. Furthermore, periodic reporting is essential so as to keep the ArbitrumDAO updated re. Task-specific progress & internal ADPC Administration.
Duty of Impartiality: ADPC Members will have an obligation to act in an impartial manner in relation to their tasks & workflow, ensuring that the ADPC is not compromised by personal interests or external influences.
Obligation of Recusal: ADPC Members with a conflict of interest involving a service provider being reviewed by the ADPC should recuse themselves from participating in the evaluation, facilitation & administration of the applicable procurement process.
Prohibition of Self-Dealing: Participants should refrain from voting on sending funds to themselves or organizations where any portion of those funds is expected to flow to them, their other projects, or anyone they have a close personal or economic relationship with.
Ethical Trading: Members are required to follow ethical trading standards concerning ARB and any other relevant digital assets.
