Implementations

The Siftio Framework is intended to provide a foundation for the development of trusted digital communities across different environments and applications.

While the principles remain consistent, their application can vary according to the purpose, participants and nature of each community. An implementation of Siftio is therefore not a standard product or a prescribed technology platform. It is an application of the framework within a particular digital environment.

FamilyNet

FamilyNet is the first platform developed using the Siftio Framework.

It is a private social networking environment designed for families. Rather than creating another open social network, FamilyNet is built around known relationships, defined communities and a clear separation from many of the commercial practices that have become common across social media.

FamilyNet provides a practical example of how the six foundations of Siftio can work together within a digital community.

Identity

FamilyNet places identity within the context of real relationships. The objective is to create an environment where participation has meaning and where people interact as members of a community rather than as anonymous or unrelated users.

Boundaries

FamilyNet is designed around defined communities and relationships rather than unrestricted access. These boundaries help establish the context in which members connect and interact.

Governance

The environment operates within a defined purpose and set of responsibilities. Governance provides the basis for maintaining that purpose as the community develops.

Accountability

Meaningful identity and defined community relationships provide a stronger basis for individual and organizational responsibility. Accountability is considered part of the environment rather than relying entirely on moderation after problems occur.

Privacy

FamilyNet demonstrates the principle that privacy can influence the design and operation of a digital community from the outset. The service is structured without advertising, behavioural tracking, algorithmic content selection or the sharing of member data for commercial purposes.

Sustainability

FamilyNet uses a member-supported model rather than depending on advertising or the commercial use of member information. This helps align the long-term operation of the platform with the interests of the community it serves.

From Principles to Practice

FamilyNet illustrates an important aspect of Siftio: the six foundations are not intended to operate independently.

Identity supports accountability. Boundaries provide context for identity and governance. Governance supports the integrity of those boundaries. Privacy is influenced by decisions across the environment, while sustainability helps ensure that the principles on which the community was established can be maintained over time.

The result is not simply the addition of privacy, identity or governance features to an existing model. It is an approach in which these considerations form part of the foundation from which the digital community is developed.

FamilyNet represents the first application of that approach. Future implementations may serve very different communities and purposes while continuing to be guided by the same six foundations.

The methods, structures and implementation practices through which the Siftio Framework is applied remain proprietary.