There are seven commonly used frameworks to help you build blockchain analytics models in a structured and repeatable way. There are more frameworks available today, and likely even more will become available in the not-so-distant future. Deciding on the best blockchain analytics model framework can be difficult. You need to ask lots of questions and take into consideration many features.
The table below lists each of the blockchain data analytics frameworks. Use this table as a starting point when deciding which framework is best for your organization and product.
| Framework | Year Released | Languages Supported | Strengths | Weaknesses |
| TensorFlow | 2015 | C++, JavaScript, Python, R | Most popular framework; used by Google | Complex to learn |
| Keras | 2015 | Python | Easier interface for TensorFlow; focused on results not model details | Less direct access to model details |
| PyTorch | 2016 | C, Python | More intuitive than TensorFlow; supports fast experimentation | No dedicated visualization tool |
| fast.ai | 2018 | Python | Easier interface for PyTorch; lots of free courses | Little direct model control for experienced coders |
| Caffe | 2013 | C++ | Exceptionally fast image processing | Limited language or model options beyond its main purpose |
| MXNet | 2017 | C++, Python, JavaScript, Go, R, Perl | Lean and scalable across many device types, including the cloud; includes easy-to-use interface | Training and deployment flexibility can make model building more complex |
| Deeplearning4j | 2014 | C++, Java | Supports Java developers and environments; supports many models | Limited to Java development environments |
No one choice is best for all situations. Assess the needs and capabilities of your organization and project, and then use that information to identify two or three blockchain data analytics frameworks. Then create a small model using each of the frameworks to get a good feel for how well that framework works for you.
Don’t hesitate to reevaluate in the future. Using the right framework for your organization can improve the chances of project success.Want to learn more? Take a look at our Blockchain Data Analytics Cheat Sheet.
