Welcome to the SuperBenefit Lexicon! This is your guide to the language and key concepts we use to explore decentralized organizations (DAOs), Web3 governance, and social impact.
Think of this as our shared dictionary, constantly evolving to reflect our growing understanding of these complex fields.
What You’ll Find Here
This lexicon provides:
Clear Definitions: Concise explanations of the terms and concepts we use in our work.
Contextual Understanding: Insights into how these terms are applied within the SuperBenefit network and the broader Web3 ecosystem.
Connections to Our Thinking: Links to related notes and resources within our knowledge garden, helping you see how these concepts fit into our overall framework.
How to Use the Lexicon
Browse the terms below to deepen your understanding of the language of DAOs, Web3, and social impact. Use the links to explore related concepts and discover new connections.
Actions (or “events”) are occurrences or processes initiated by individuals or systems that result in a change or impact on a given situation, environment, or system.
Uses of “Actions”
In the context of organization and systems design, actions are the measurable processes or events through which resources are created, exchanged, or transformed, driving the flow of value within the system.
Agents are individuals or entities that act or make decisions on behalf of themselves or others, influencing outcomes through their actions or choices in various systems.
Uses of “Agents”
In the context of organizations and systems, agents are individuals or entities—human or automated—that act autonomously or on behalf of others, making decisions and facilitating interactions within decentralized networks, such as DAOs, to drive collaboration, resource exchange, and the creation of public goods. This definition is largely similar across several frameworks, such as Anticapture, Modular Politics and primitives.
Agreements are mutual understandings or contracts between parties that outline the terms and conditions of their interactions, roles, or responsibilities to ensure aligned actions and expectations.
Uses of “Agreements”
In the context of Web3 and systems design, agreements refer to formalized, often decentralized, commitments or rules established between agents or entities that govern interactions, resource exchanges, and decision-making, ensuring coordinated actions and aligned objectives within social and technological coordination systems.
A blockchain is a type of distributed database system for managing information that can reduce the need for central authorities or trusted intermediaries to oversee interactions and make sure the network rules are being followed. This enables participants to engage in peer-to-peer data and value transfers, and potentially, to contribute to the design, functioning, and management of the network – i.e. to build networks based on multi-stakeholder governance. Blockchains are a subset of distributed ledger technologies (DLT)—ie. all blockchains are distributed ledgers, but not all distributed ledgers are blockchains.
In a blockchain network, identical copies of a database are stored on multiple computers, resulting in a single, shared ledger that records the history of interactions and asset ownership in the network, and maintains the rules governing interactions. This distributed structure leads to a lot of discussion about the extent and value of decentralization, but beware the hype: decentralization could refer to many different things, like the distribution of hardware, software, or decision-making power. Distributed computing power is not the same as distributed political power.
In a blockchain, data is arranged into “blocks” that are “chained” together using advanced cryptography, hence the name blockchain and the nickname “crypto”. It is extremely difficult to secretly modify or delete records once they are added to the chain, so blockchains are often said to be “immutable” or tamper-evident (as in, everyone knows if anyone tries to tamper with the record). This means users can have high confidence in the integrity of the shared data.
Cryptocurrencies
As well as managing information, blockchains can issue their own “cryptocurrencies” (eg. bitcoin on the Bitcoin network, or ether on the Ethereum network) that enable peer-to-peer value transfers and are used to reward participants for helping maintain the blockchain ledger. To maintain agreement about the “true” state of the shared ledger without a centralized authority, blockchains use a “consensus mechanism” that combines cryptography with game-theoretic incentives (eg. payments or penalties paid in cryptocurrencies) in ways that maximize confidence in the integrity of the ledger.
Blockchains can be public or private, permissioned or permissionless. In permissioned chains (often used by corporate entities), access and functionality are strictly controlled. In public networks like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Polygon or Solana, anyone with an internet connection can participate, in principle.
New societal governance mechanisms?
Information management is a critical part of modern societies. Since blockchains enable a wider degree of participation in the design and management of computer networks (relative to typical modern systems), and since cryptocurrencies can be programed to incentivize specific kinds of cooperative behavior, blockchain networks expand the scope to build sophisticated, large scale networks outside of traditional structures. For example, they make it possible to build transnational networks that are difficult, though not impossible, for governments to control, because states tend to assert regulatory authority via centralized bureaucracies or trusted intermediaries.
A DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) is, by one definition, a blockchain-based organization run by smart contracts and governed collectively by its members without centralized control.
Decentralization refers to the distribution of power, decision-making, and control away from a central authority to multiple individuals or entities, allowing for more distributed and autonomous operations.
Uses of “Decentralization”
In the context of Web3 and systems design, decentralization refers to the distribution of decision-making power, control, and resource management across a network of autonomous agents or nodes, rather than being concentrated in a central authority, enabling more transparent, resilient, and collaborative coordination in both social and technological systems.
Decisions are the choices made by individuals or groups to select a course of action from various options, influencing outcomes and guiding behavior or processes.
Uses of “Decisions”
In the context of Web3 and systems design, decisions refer to the choices made by agents or decentralized units within governance frameworks, determining actions, resource allocations, or policies that shape the behavior and outcomes of social and technological coordination systems.
Evaluation is the process of assessing the quality, effectiveness, or outcomes of actions, projects, or systems to determine their success and inform improvements.
Uses of “Evaluation”
In the context of Web3 and systems design, evaluation refers to the process of assessing the effectiveness, performance, or impact of actions, decisions, or systems within decentralized coordination frameworks, enabling agents to optimize governance, resource management, and collaboration based on feedback and analysis.
Execution is the process of carrying out a planned action or task to completion according to a set of instructions or objectives.
Uses of “Execution”
In the context of Web3 and systems design, execution refers to the process by which decentralized agents or systems carry out actions, tasks, or decisions according to defined protocols and governance structures, enabling the completion of coordinated operations within social and technological frameworks.
Decentralized governance in the context of Web3 and DAOs refers to the decentralized, blockchain-based system where rules, decisions, and resource allocation are managed collectively by participants through transparent, automated mechanisms like smart contracts. Rather than concentrating decision-making power in a traditional hierarchy, decentralized governance distributes authority across different scales and functions of the organization.
Types of Governance
community-governance
Operates at Constituency Scale to safeguard and evolve the network’s overarching purpose. Community governance includes a broad base of stakeholders who may not be directly involved in operations but are aligned with the network’s purpose. It uses slower, more deliberative mechanisms like conviction voting and optimistic governance to make long-term decisions about network direction and treasury allocation.
operational-governance
Functions at test-pattern (small autonomous teams) coordinate their activities. Operational governance provides the flexibility and autonomy needed for teams to execute effectively while maintaining coordination across the network.
stakeholder-governance
Focuses on aligning key stakeholder interests and managing relationships between different participants in the network. This includes coordinating between active contributors, token holders, users, and other parties who have a direct stake in the network’s success. Stakeholder governance helps balance competing interests while maintaining alignment with the network’s purpose.
In the context of Web3, impact refers to the measurable positive outcomes or changes, such as improving access, transparency, and equity across social, environmental, and economic systems.
An organizational philosophy and practice that emphasizes local autonomy, community self-determination, and place-based solutions while maintaining beneficial connections to broader networks and resources.
Localism represents a response to excessive centralization and globalization, seeking to rebuild community resilience and autonomy while preserving valuable external connections. It focuses on organizing human activity around natural boundaries (like watersheds and bioregions) rather than arbitrary political divisions, while developing local capacity for governance, production, and cultural expression.
Uses of “Localism”
Localism in Economics
In economic contexts, localism promotes local production and consumption cycles, community-owned infrastructure, and economic systems that serve local needs. This includes developing local currencies, mutual credit systems, and community-based financial institutions that keep resources circulating within the community.
Localism in Governance
In governance, localism emphasizes democratic self-determination at the local level, with communities making decisions about issues that directly affect them. This often involves participatory democracy, commons management, and collective stewardship of shared resources.
Localism in Ecology
In ecological contexts, localism focuses on organizing human activity in harmony with local ecosystems and bioregions. This includes sustainable resource management, regenerative agriculture, and ecological restoration guided by local knowledge and conditions.
Localism in web3
In web3 contexts, localism has evolved beyond traditional emphasis on self-sufficiency to embrace what’s known as cosmolocalism - a hybrid approach that maintains local autonomy while leveraging global networks. This evolution represents an important adaptation to modern technological capabilities:
Traditional localism focuses on local self-sufficiency and independence from external systems
Web3 tools enable a more nuanced approach where communities can:
Maintain sovereignty over local resources and decision-making
Share knowledge and protocols globally through open systems
Connect local initiatives through decentralized networks
Access global capital while preserving local control
Coordinate between autonomous groups without centralization
Support place-based governance with digital tools
The key innovation is the ability to choose the optimal scale for different activities - keeping production and governance local while participating in global knowledge and resource networks. This follows the cosmo-local principle of “heavy is local, light is global,” enabling communities to benefit from broader connections without sacrificing autonomy.
Modules are self-contained, interchangeable units or components that perform specific functions within a larger system, allowing for flexibility, customization, and scalability when building or modifying that system.
Uses of “Modules”
The term modules is used across various contexts to describe different types of self-contained components: in organizational design, they represent functional units of processes or teams; in grassroots movements and nonprofit organizations, they refer to adaptable, repeatable strategies or tools for mobilization; in coordination systems, they enable flexible collaboration structures; and in blockchain technology, they are units of code or governance mechanisms that can be independently developed, deployed, and integrated into larger systems for decentralized management.
Modules in systems and org design
In the context of organization and systems design, modules are configurable, self-contained components that perform specific governance functions, which can be combined and modified to form larger, more complex systems.
Modules allow for flexibility in designing organizational processes by enabling users to select and arrange different components to meet their needs. These components can operate independently or in combination with others, facilitating customization and scalability. In decentralized systems, such as those found in Web3, modules support interoperability and portability, allowing governance tools to be shared across different platforms and adapted to new contexts efficiently.
Networks are interconnected systems of individuals or entities that communicate and collaborate to share information, resources, or influence, enabling the coordination and flow of activities across various nodes.
Uses of “Networks”
In the context of Web3 and systems design, networks refer to interconnected systems of agents, resources, and technologies that facilitate decentralized coordination, communication, and collaboration, enabling secure interactions and governance across both social and technological frameworks.
Reusable solutions to common problems in a specific context.
Patterns are proven and adaptable solutions to recurring challenges. They capture successful approaches, outlining the problem, context, and key elements of the solution, offering a template for efficient and consistent implementation.
Patterns: Reusable Solutions for Complex Challenges
In many fields, from architecture to software engineering to organizational design, patterns offer a powerful way to capture and share proven solutions to recurring problems. A pattern is essentially a template or blueprint that describes a successful approach, its context, and its key elements.
Think of patterns as shortcuts to success. Instead of reinventing the wheel every time you face a challenge, you can leverage the wisdom and experience captured in a well-defined pattern.
Key Benefits of Using Patterns
Efficiency: Patterns save time and effort by providing a ready-made solution.
Consistency: Patterns ensure that solutions are implemented consistently across different projects and contexts.
Quality: Patterns promote the use of proven and effective approaches.
Knowledge Sharing: Patterns facilitate the sharing of knowledge and best practices within a community.
Patterns in Action
Patterns can be applied to a wide range of challenges, such as:
Software Design: Design patterns provide solutions for common software design problems.
Organizational Structure: Organizational patterns offer guidance on building effective teams and organizations.
Community Governance: Governance patterns provide frameworks for making decisions and managing resources in a decentralized community.
Patterns at SuperBenefit
At SuperBenefit, we use patterns to capture and share our collective knowledge about building effective DAOs, Web3 projects, and social impact initiatives. Our patterns are designed to be:
Reusable: They can be adapted and applied to a variety of projects and contexts.
Practical: They provide clear and actionable guidance.
Community-Driven: They are developed and refined through collaboration and feedback from our community.
We see patterns as bridging the gap between high-level principles and on-the-ground implementation. They help us translate our vision into reality by providing concrete steps and proven solutions.
Exploring SuperBenefit Patterns
You can explore the specific patterns we use at SuperBenefit by browsing the “Patterns” tag in our knowledge garden. There, you’ll find a growing collection of reusable solutions for building a better future.
Using Patterns for Your Own Organization
Whether you’re building a DAO, a Web3 project, or a social impact initiative, patterns can help you to:
Identify Common Challenges: Recognize recurring problems in your organization or field.
Discover Proven Solutions: Learn from the experience of others who have faced similar challenges.
Adapt and Apply Patterns: Customize existing patterns to fit your specific context and needs.
Share Your Knowledge: Contribute your own patterns to help others solve problems more effectively.
By embracing patterns, you can accelerate your progress, improve your results, and contribute to a more collaborative and innovative future.
Permissions generally refer to the rights or privileges granted to individuals or entities, determining what actions they are allowed to perform within a particular environment or group.
Uses of “Permissions”
In the DAO Primitives and Modular Politics frameworks, permissions refer to the specific rights or access controls granted to agents or participants, determining their ability to execute tasks, interact with resources, or make changes within decentralized social and technological coordination systems, ensuring controlled and secure coordination across decentralized social and technological governance systems.
Primitives are the most basic, foundational elements or operations in any system or domain, serving as the essential building blocks from which more complex structures, processes, or concepts are created.
Uses of “Primitives”
Primitives can be seen across various domains, such as programming (e.g., data types, basic operations like addition), hardware (e.g., logic gates, transistors), and software architecture (e.g., messaging protocols, database queries). Their simplicity and generality make them highly reusable, flexible, and reliable, allowing systems to scale and evolve while maintaining clarity and modularity.
In both web3 tooling and systems design, “primitives” refer to basic, foundational components or operations that are simple, reusable, and interoperable, serving as essential building blocks for creating more complex applications, services, or systems by combining or extending them.
Primitives in Systems Design
In systems design and organization, primitives refer to the most basic, foundational components or operations that cannot be simplified further but are used to build more complex systems. These building blocks provide standardized functionality or abstractions, allowing for the creation of larger, more sophisticated systems by combining or extending them.
Primitives in web3
In web3 tooling, primitives refer to basic building blocks or fundamental components that developers use to create decentralized applications (dApps) and blockchain-based systems. These include elements like tokens, wallets, smart contracts, consensus mechanisms, and decentralized identities, which serve as reusable, interoperable pieces of code or protocols. By combining and extending these primitives, developers can efficiently build more complex applications and services within the decentralized ecosystem.
Primitives in Practice
Organizations can benefit from primitives by leveraging these basic building blocks to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance flexibility. By breaking down complex tasks or systems into simpler, reusable components, they can standardize operations, reduce redundancy, and adapt quickly to changes.
These elements are simple, repeatable, and can be applied across different departments or projects, allowing the organization to maintain consistency while adapting to various challenges. By utilizing these foundational building blocks, organizations can ensure that their operations are efficient, flexible, and aligned with their strategic goals.
At SuperBenefit, we’re exploring the potential and practical uses of web3 primitives in the DAO Primitives Project. For help choosing the patterns, practices and primitives for your project, check out the group-facilitation. You can learn more about our approach in the conceptual framework.
Primitives in this repository
Some notes in this knowledge garden represent primitives, and include metadata to help you navigate and discover them.
Notes which representprimitives are indicated using the primitive file class (type: primitive). This file class (a subclass of resource and link ) contains several metadata fields which are either inherited or unique.
Resources are assets or materials, such as money, time, equipment, or knowledge, that are utilized to achieve goals, complete tasks, or support activities.
In Anticapture, resources are defined as anything that can be used to achieve desired outcomes, including tangible assets like food, money, and energy, as well as intangible ones like attention and social reputation. The term distinguishes between private resources, controlled by a single agents, and shared resources, governed by a network of agents. Shared resources are particularly vulnerable to capture, making decentralized governance essential to protect them from misuse or control by bad actors
Systems transformation refers to the fundamental shift in how societal structures and processes operate, driven by decentralized technologies that enable more transparent, equitable, and inclusive solutions for addressing complex social challenges.
