Development of dApps has a number of repeatable functionality - like a need for a wallet. NFT dApps in most instances require an “Indexer” - functionality that parses the blockchain for data and sends it to the UI software. If each developer would have to make such indexing functionality for their own dApp the barrier to adoption would be very substantial, since the costs, time and effort required this way are required from each of them. Most blockchain ecosystems have several open source NFT Indexers that serve this purpose, and Polkadot needs to match that.
Polkadot has 5 NFT Pallets in use, 3 of which have traction that is important to the ecosystem, as detailed in the NFT Pallets document. NFTs pallet is used on AssetHub, and is the main target for growth in the future. Uniques pallet is used on over 10 parachains and their needs for Indexing functionality are optional, but desirable for the overall value of the tech stack that Polkadot offers to developers. Unique Network already has its custom indexing solution and requires no further assistance.
As described in the presentation of our research on Indexing in the Polkadot ecosystem (NFT indexers) Kodadot team has an indexer that works well for AssetHub on the NFTs pallet. However, to become truly best in class, it needs additional work. Unique Network’s Indexer may be integrated and adopted to the NFTs pallet with less work than if making a new one from scratch. There are many Substrate indexers in the ecosystem already that may decide to add NFT functionality.
This post is a call to all the teams to come forward with the proposal on how they would want to build the best in class NFT Indexer. To describe an ideal NFT Indexer we have created an NFT Indexer Specification, which may be used as requirements for the proposal.Proposers do not have to cover 100% of the listed requirements, we are only asking for justification for a particular choice - some use cases may not need all of them, but can have their own value. Proposals submitted here or to Telegram group will be reviewed, and the best ones will receive our full support for the OpenGov grant to execute the proposal.
Requirements for the proposal are the same as for any OpenGov proposal, and as a minimum we ask for:
Looking forward to the proposals! For any questions feel free to ask here or at our support channel at Telegram.
NFTMozaic is an alliance within the Polkadot ecosystem dedicated to advancing NFT growth, adoption, and interoperability. It connects parachains, projects, and partners to foster collaboration, drive technical innovation, and support real-world applications to position Polkadot as a leader in next-gen NFTs.