Time-Based Scaling
duration-linked performance model
Time-Based Scaling is a protocol design principle where access, yield, influence, or utility increases based on how long a user holds, stakes, or participates. This model anchors value to time, rewarding consistency and longevity over one-time action. By tying protocol privileges or outputs to user duration, time-based scaling naturally filters commitment, amplifies retention, and strengthens alignment between user behavior and system health.
Use Case: A yield platform starts users at base APR, but boosts rewards by 0.5% every 30 days the tokens remain staked, up to a cap. This time-based scaling model incentivizes users to stay engaged without needing fixed lockups, turning duration into a passive yield multiplier.
Key Concepts:
- Time-Weighted Rewards ÔÇö Yield increases in proportion to how long a user remains committed.
- Staking Duration ÔÇö The core timer that governs reward tiers or access unlocks.
- Layered Utility ÔÇö Features or benefits scale over time with continued participation.
- Access Maturity Curves ÔÇö Progressive unlocking of utility tied to time-held thresholds.
Summary: Time-Based Scaling turns time itself into a yield, access, or governance amplifier. It rewards patience, punishes churn, and helps protocols grow stronger with users who stay alignedÔÇömaking it a core structure in sustainable DeFi and token ecosystems.
| Scaling Model | Trigger | Growth Pattern | User Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time-Based Scaling | Duration | Linear or Tiered | Increased Yield / Access |
| Token-Based Scaling | Balance Held | Step Function | Higher Influence / Boosts |
| Action-Based Scaling | Platform Usage | Milestone Triggers | Feature Unlocks |