Why is this important?
Blockchain can be used for many services in platforms, such as for distributed and secure digital rights management or payments, ensuring identity or making smart, self-actualising contracts. While it is currently being used mainly for digital currencies such as bitcoin, it is increasingly being used in other areas. In order to enable more wide and open use and seamless cross-industry interaction between different blockchain-based services, Linux foundation launched an open-source project called Hyperledger. The goal is to create a common infrastructure and standard regarding membership management, blockchain technology implementation, transactions and the blockchain code for writing e.g. smart contracts. The project is already backed by many major players, such as IBM, Intel and Accenture.
Things to keep an eye on
Hyperledger aims to define the underlying frame for ensuring interoperability and transparency of blockchain technologies. While there is an increasing number of organisations backing the project, it is interesting to see what kinds of services and applications will eventually be built on top of the common framework. Collaboration or cooperation between other general implementations of blockchain such as Ethereum are also something to keep an eye on.
Selected articles and websites
How the blockchain will radically transform the economy
Introduction to Hyperledger; Why open Blockchain is critical
Hyperledger vs. Ethereum: Yes? No? Maybe?
4 reasons why entrepreneurs should build blockchain companies
Deloitte Survey Results on Blockchain Across Industries