Proposal lifecycle

Governance proposals in CipherDAO follow a clear and predictable lifecycle. The goal is to make decision-making transparent, fair, and easy to follow, while still allowing the protocol to move forward without unnecessary friction. Every proposal moves through the same stages so contributors always know what is happening and why.

A proposal begins with an idea. Any eligible Cipher Owl holder can draft a proposal that outlines a change, improvement, or action for the ecosystem. This can range from protocol upgrades and parameter changes to treasury decisions or governance process updates. At this stage, proposals are expected to clearly explain the motivation, the intended outcome, and any potential risks.

Once a proposal is formally submitted, it enters the discussion phase. During this period, the community reviews the proposal, asks questions, and suggests refinements. This phase is intentionally social and collaborative. It allows weaknesses to be identified early and gives the proposer a chance to clarify intent before voting begins. No votes are counted yet, and changes can still be made.

After discussion, the proposal moves into the voting phase. Eligible voters can cast their votes using their governance power, which is derived from Cipher Owl ownership and any applicable council rights. Votes are recorded on-chain so the process remains transparent and verifiable. Each proposal has a fixed voting window, ensuring decisions are made within a known timeframe rather than dragging on indefinitely.

When voting concludes, the proposal enters the finalisation phase. If it meets the required quorum and approval threshold, it is considered accepted. If it fails to meet those requirements, it is rejected and has no effect on the protocol. Failed proposals can be revised and resubmitted later if the community believes they are still worth pursuing.

For accepted proposals, execution depends on the proposal type. Some changes can be executed automatically through on-chain instructions. Others, such as upgrades or sensitive configuration changes, are carried out by the designated authorities following the approved proposal. In all cases, execution is bound by the decision made through governance and cannot bypass it.

This lifecycle ensures that every change to Cipher and Orbit Finance is deliberate, visible, and accountable. Ideas are discussed before they are voted on, votes are counted fairly, and approved decisions are executed according to clear rules. Governance is not just about voting. It is about creating a shared process that balances safety, progress, and community trust.