PeakChain: Decentralized Car-Sharing on Cardano

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Oussama Benmahmoud

[GENERAL] Are you delivering this project as an individual or as an entity (whether formally incorporated or not)

Entity (Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

10

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language.

No

[GENERAL] Summarize your solution to the problem (200-character limit including spaces)

We propose to create a Cardano-based proof of concept for a car-sharing platform, emphasizing enhanced privacy and security features.

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

No

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

No dependencies

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

No

[GENERAL] Please provide here more information on the open source status of your project outputs

Our project will not be fully open source. The decision to keep some components of our project non-open source is driven by our ambition to establish a commercially viable product. This serves two purposes:

1. Revenue Generation: It allows us to generate revenue as a company to fund our activities, ensuring the project's ongoing development and maintenance.
2. Commercial Viability in Cardano Ecosystem: It acts as a testament to the potential of the Cardano ecosystem to facilitate not just community-driven open source projects but also commercially viable solutions.

Our goal is to create real value within the Cardano ecosystem that extends beyond typical open source community projects. By building a successful commercial application on Cardano, we hope to showcase the potential of Cardano to drive growth in the capital market and foster a new wave of enterprise-level adoption. This would not only help us monetize our project but also contribute to the overall value of the Cardano ecosystem.

Demonstrating the successful commercialization of projects within the Cardano ecosystem can inspire other entrepreneurs and businesses to leverage the technology, thus driving the ecosystem's growth and expanding its influence. While open source projects are crucial for collaborative growth, commercially viable projects prove the practical utility and economic viability of the technology to a broader audience. This balance between collaboration and commercialization is what we believe will drive the sustained success of the Cardano ecosystem.

[METADATA] SDG rating

For the "Cardano Carsharing Platform" project, here are the relevant UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) it could potentially align with:

1. SDG 9: Industry Innovation and Infrastructure: By leveraging the Cardano blockchain technology for car-sharing services, our project aligns with the objective of building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities: Our project contributes to making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action: By promoting the use of shared transportation, our platform indirectly supports actions towards reducing the carbon footprint and fighting climate change.

These goals and their targets can serve as guiding principles for the development and evaluation of our project. We'll monitor and report our contribution towards these goals as part of our ongoing project management and review processes.

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution.

Core Objective: Develop a basic prototype of the "PeakChain Car-Sharing Platform" using Cardano's blockchain technology. The primary aim is to showcase how blockchain can enhance data security and transparency in car-sharing services.

Problem Addressed:

Highlight the issue of data privacy and security in current centralized car-sharing systems. The proof of concept will focus on demonstrating how blockchain can mitigate these risks.

Simplified Approach:

• Technological Foundation: Build a minimal viable platform on Cardano's blockchain, focusing only on essential features required for secure and transparent car-sharing transactions.
• User Interface: Develop a basic, intuitive user interface for the platform. This phase won't include advanced features but will ensure usability for an average user.

Target Audience for Initial Engagement:

• Limited User Group: Pilot the platform with a small group of car-sharing service users to gather initial feedback and data.
• Key Industry Stakeholders: Present the concept to a select group of automobile industry stakeholders for early impressions and suggestions.

1. Metrics for Impact:

• Quantitative: Measure user engagement in the pilot phase and note the efficiency of transactions on the blockchain.
• Qualitative: Gather initial user feedback on the platform's impact on their privacy and security concerns.

1. Unique Aspect of the Proof of Concept:

• Focus on demonstrating the practical use of blockchain in car-sharing, emphasizing data security and privacy.

1. Relevance to Cardano:

• Use this proof of concept to illustrate the application of Cardano's blockchain in a real-world, non-financial context, highlighting its potential beyond typical uses.

[IMPACT] Please define the positive impact your project will have on the wider Cardano community.

Our project, the "PeakChain Car-Sharing Platform," will have a significant positive impact on the wider Cardano community, fostering growth, and showcasing Cardano's potential in innovative real-world applications.

Impact on the Cardano Community:

• Enhanced User Experience: Our platform, with its focus on security and privacy, will improve the perception and usability of blockchain-based applications, demonstrating Cardano's applicability in diverse sectors.
• Community Growth: By successfully implementing a car-sharing solution on Cardano, we aim to attract more developers and businesses to the ecosystem, expanding its reach and utility.
• Showcasing Cardano’s Versatility: Our project will serve as a case study for the effective use of Cardano in sectors beyond finance, highlighting its robustness and scalability.

Measuring Impact:

• Quantitative Measures:Adoption Rate: Tracking the number of users and transactions on the platform.
• Developer Engagement: Monitoring the growth in developers building on or with our platform.
• Qualitative Measures:User Feedback: Conducting surveys and collecting feedback for continuous improvement.
• Industry Recognition: Gaining acknowledgment from within the blockchain and automobile industries.

Sharing Outputs and Opportunities:

• Regular Progress Updates: Via our website, social media, and newsletters.
• Community Engagement: Active participation in Cardano forums, Reddit, and other relevant platforms.
• Public Demonstrations and Webinars: Showcasing platform functionalities and benefits.
• Collaborations: Partnering with other entities within the Cardano ecosystem to enhance our platform and offer combined solutions.
• Industry Conferences: Presenting our findings and learnings at relevant conferences and events.

Through these efforts, our project aims not only to succeed in its own right but also to contribute to the broader success and growth of the Cardano ecosystem.

[CAPABILITY & FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability? How do you intend to validate if your approach is feasible?

The capability to deliver a proof of concept for the "Cardano Carsharing Platform" with a focus on trust and accountability is supported by several key factors:

1. Company Reputation and Track Record: As PeakSoft GmbH, we have a history of working on significant projects, with experience in collaborating with major clients. This background emphasizes our capability to manage projects efficiently and deliver quality results, even on a smaller scale like this proof of concept.
2. Solid Team Foundation: Our team comprises six full-time professionals, experts in software development, quality assurance, project management, and blockchain technology. This expertise ensures effective management and execution of the proof of concept.
3. Resource Allocation: We have access to a network of external consultants, which allows us to adapt to project needs quickly, ensuring smooth progress even in a scaled-down project environment.
4. Expertise in Blockchain Technology: Our team's experience with both traditional and blockchain technologies, including involvement in the Cardano ecosystem, positions us well to develop this blockchain-based car-sharing platform.
5. Transparency and Accountability: We commit to maintaining clear communication with stakeholders through regular updates and progress reports. Our budgeting and auditing procedures are designed to ensure responsible management of funds, even in a smaller-scale project.

To validate the feasibility of our approach for the proof of concept, we will focus on:

• Technical Feasibility: Utilizing the Cardano blockchain and smart contracts, with rigorous testing to ensure reliability and performance in the core functions of the platform.
• Market Feasibility: Conducting targeted market research to assess the response to a decentralized car-sharing platform, focusing on the need for security and transparency.
• Operational Feasibility: Demonstrating operational feasibility through the completion of key milestones, such as developing a basic user interface and ensuring smooth transactions on the platform.

Our fund management strategy includes:

• Detailed Budget Planning: A thorough budget plan, tailored for the proof of concept, ensures efficient resource allocation.
• Regular Auditing and Monitoring: Implementing auditing processes to monitor expenditures and project progress, ensuring alignment with the project's goals.
• Agile Methodologies: Employing Agile methodologies, specifically Scrum, to manage the project efficiently. This includes setting clear criteria for each project component and using tools like Scrum boards for transparent tracking of our progress.

These capabilities and processes underscore our commitment to delivering this proof of concept with trust, accountability, and professionalism.

[Project Milestones] What are the key milestones you need to achieve in order to complete your project successfully?

Milestone 1: Initial Setup and Backend Prototype Development

• Description: Establishing basic project infrastructure and starting backend development for the prototype.
• Outputs:Simplified project plan.
• Basic task management setup (e.g., simplified JIRA board or equivalent).
• Prototype data processing and transaction scripts.
• Acceptance Criteria:Completion of a streamlined project plan.
• Setup of task management with essential tasks and user stories.
• Successful implementation and basic testing of the prototype scripts.

Milestone 2: Prototype Smart Contract Development and Testing

• Description: Developing and testing prototype smart contracts for car-sharing services.
• Outputs:Deployed prototype smart contracts.
• Acceptance Criteria:Successful deployment of prototype smart contracts.
• Basic testing showing contracts functioning as intended for the proof of concept.

Milestone 3: Prototype Testing and Issue Identification

• Description: Basic testing of the smart contracts and backend components of the prototype.
• Outputs:Tested prototype backend and smart contract components.
• Acceptance Criteria:Identification and documentation of key issues or bugs.
• Prototype components meeting initial testing benchmarks.

Milestone 4: Prototype API and Basic Interface Development

• Description: Developing a basic API and interface for the prototype.
• Outputs:Basic API for prototype interaction.
• Simple frontend interface.
• Acceptance Criteria:Functional API as per the prototype’s requirements.
• Basic frontend interface developed for initial interaction.

Milestone 5: Integration and Initial Testing of MVP

• Description: Combining frontend and backend systems for the proof of concept and conducting initial tests.
• Outputs:Integrated prototype systems (frontend and backend).
• Initial testing of the proof of concept.
• Acceptance Criteria:Successful integration of prototype components.
• Basic functionality of the proof of concept validated through initial tests.

Milestone 6: Final Review, Adjustments, and Prototype Demonstration

• Description: Final review and adjustments based on testing feedback, culminating in a demonstration of the prototype.
• Outputs:Refined prototype ready for demonstration.
• Project completion report and demonstration material.
• Acceptance Criteria:Completion of final adjustments based on feedback.
• Prototype demonstrating the core concept effectively.
• Completion of project report summarizing findings and potential for further development.

[RESOURCES] Who is in the project team and what are their roles?

Oussama Benmahmoud - CEO and Co-Founder of PeakSoft GmbH

• Role: Project Management, Software Quality Assurance, Blockchain Development.
• LinkedIn Profile: Oussama Benmahmoud
• Responsibilities: Overseeing the entire project, managing software quality, and contributing to blockchain development.

Abderrahim Issaoui: As the CTO and Co-Founder of PeakSoft GmbH, Abderrahim brings over a decade of experience e as a Software Engineer. He is Plutus Pioneer and Atala PRISM Pioneer. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abderrahim-issaoui-b3149227/

Habib Mokni - Software Engineer and Frontend Developer

• Role: Frontend Development.
• LinkedIn Profile: Habib Mokni
• Responsibilities: Developing and testing the frontend interface of the platform.

Mohammed Abdelali - Electronic and Communication Engineer

• Role: Software Quality Assurance, Mobility Integration.
• LinkedIn Profile: Mohammed Abdelali
• Responsibilities: Focusing on software quality assurance and integration of mobility services.

Ramla Mahjoub - Software Quality Assurance

• Role: Software Quality Assurance, Project Coordination.
• LinkedIn Profile: Ramla Mahjoub
• Responsibilities: Ensuring the quality of software and assisting in project coordination.

[BUDGET & COSTS] Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources.

Administration and Initial Setup (20%): 10,000 ADA

• Staff salaries for initial project setup.
• Basic legal and office expenses.
• Miscellaneous administrative costs.

Project Management Infrastructure (5%): 5,000 ADA

• Software subscriptions (e.g., simplified project management tools).
• Costs for setting up a basic project management system.

Prototype Backend Development (15%): 15,000 ADA

• Developer salaries for backend prototype development.
• Initial testing and debugging costs.

Prototype Smart Contract Development (15%): 15,000 ADA

• Salaries for developers focusing on prototype smart contract development.
• Basic testing and debugging of smart contracts.

Basic Testing and Issue Identification (10%): 10,000 ADA

• Costs for testing backend and smart contract components of the prototype.
• Resources for identifying and documenting key issues.

API and Basic Interface Development (15%): 15,00 ADA

• Costs for developing a basic API and frontend interface for the prototype.
• Developer salaries for UI creation and testing.

Integration and Initial Testing of MVP (10%): 10,000 ADA

• Resources for integrating and testing the prototype’s MVP.
• Initial feedback collection and analysis.

Final Review and Adjustments (10%): 10,000 ADA

• Final adjustments based on initial testing feedback.
• Preparation for prototype demonstration.

Third-Party Products and Services

• Software Licenses: Includes essential software tools for project management and development.
• Professional Services: Basic legal services for compliance and potential code auditing services.

Alternative Sources of Funding

• If additional funding is needed, options include smaller-scale private investments or partnerships within the tech community.

Responsibility in Fund Management

• Commitment to regular audits and transparent reporting.
• Adherence to the revised budget and timely achievement of milestones.

[VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

The cost of the proof of concept for the "PeakChain Car-Sharing Platform," set at 50,000 ADA, offers considerable value for the Cardano ecosystem, considering several key factors:

Alignment with Industry Standards

• Competitive Wages: Our team's salaries are in line with the industry average for software professionals in Germany. This ensures we have skilled professionals contributing to a high-quality proof of concept.
• Market Rates for Services: We adhere to current market rates for essential services and software, ensuring quality without excess expenditure.

Expertise and Experience

• Our team consists of professionals experienced in software development and blockchain technology, providing a solid foundation for developing this innovative proof of concept.
• The expertise of our team ensures the delivery of a quality solution, which is essential for a successful proof of concept and provides long-term value.

Operational Efficiency

• As PeakSoft GmbH, our experience in managing projects efficiently helps us reduce overhead costs and focus resources directly on the development of the proof of concept.
• Our operational effectiveness allows for better cost management and maximizes the output from the allocated budget.

Unique Value Proposition

• This proof of concept aims to showcase the potential of Cardano's blockchain technology in a real-world application within the car-sharing sector.
• The project serves as a preliminary step in establishing Cardano as a potential standard in the automotive industry, highlighting its benefits in data security and transparency.

Future Growth and Innovation

• The success of this proof of concept could pave the way for broader adoption of blockchain technology in the automotive sector and beyond.
• It has the potential to inspire further innovation and utilization of the Cardano blockchain, fostering growth within the ecosystem.

Justification of Costs

• Research and Benchmarking: Our costs are benchmarked against similar scaled-down projects, ensuring they are reasonable for a proof of concept.
• Focus on Core Elements: The budget reflects a focus on the essential elements needed to develop and test the proof of concept effectively.

In conclusion, the budget for the "PeakChain Car-Sharing Platform" proof of concept is strategically allocated to maximize resource utilization and deliver significant value to the Cardano ecosystem. This investment in a high-quality, scaled-down solution aims to demonstrate the potential benefits and long-term growth opportunities for the ecosystem

[IMPORTANT NOTE] The Applicant agrees to Fund Rules and also that data in the submission form and other data provided by the project team during the course of the project will be publicly available.

I Accept