Cardano.Sync | A .NET/C# Indexing Framework for Cardano

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

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

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

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

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

We have developed Cardano.Sync, a .NET library that streamlines blockchain data processing, enabling efficient, developer-friendly interactions and enterprise-level integration with Cardano."

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

[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?

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

Everything about Cardano.Sync Library is already open source and is under Apache Open Source License found in the project repository.

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Our solution, Cardano.Sync, addresses the challenge of efficiently integrating and interacting with blockchain data within .NET environments—a frequent barrier for enterprises. Leveraging the .NET framework, Cardano.Sync enables developers to index and query Cardano blockchain data effectively using PostgreSQL, with plans to support additional databases, enhancing scalability and developer familiarity.

We chose this approach to exploit the robust and scalable nature of .NET and PostgreSQL's widespread use in enterprise settings. This integration is crucial as it eases the transition for enterprises adopting blockchain technology, facilitating broader adoption and utility of the Cardano blockchain.

Cardano.Sync is already proving its value, currently being utilized by projects within the Cardano ecosystem, such as Coinecta and the upcoming NFT marketplace Crashr. This adoption underscores its practicality and immediate impact.

The primary beneficiaries are enterprises looking to incorporate Cardano into their operations and developers seeking efficient tools for Cardano-based applications. We engage these groups by offering a development environment that is both familiar and powerful, thereby speeding up development cycles and reducing costs.

To demonstrate our impact, we will track the increase in enterprise applications developed on Cardano, monitor usage statistics of our tool, and solicit developer feedback for continuous enhancement. Our solution is uniquely positioned not only to simplify blockchain interactions but also to meet enterprise needs, promoting broader acceptance and integration of Cardano in key business applications. This contribution is crucial for Cardano’s expansion, especially in attracting significant enterprise-level engagements.

An example of how elegant Cardano Indexing becomes with Cardano.Sync

this not only showcases how simple processing cardano blocks / data becomes but it also utilizes .NET technologies like EntityFramework and LINQ.

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

The impact of Cardano.Sync on the wider Cardano community will be profound and multifaceted. By providing a .NET-based tool that simplifies the integration of Cardano blockchain data into enterprise applications, we are lowering the barrier to entry for large-scale adoption. This tool not only increases the number of developers able to work with Cardano but also accelerates the development of Cardano-based applications in the enterprise sector.

Value to the Cardano Community:

• Increased Adoption: By making Cardano more accessible to enterprises, we anticipate an increase in the adoption and visibility of Cardano across various industries.
• Enhanced Ecosystem: As more developers use Cardano.Sync, the ecosystem will benefit from a diversity of applications, contributing to the robustness and resilience of the Cardano network.

Measuring Impact:

• Usage Metrics: We will track the number of downloads, active users, and projects developed using Cardano.Sync.
• Community Feedback: Regular surveys and feedback sessions with developers will help gauge satisfaction and gather suggestions for improvements.
• Enterprise Engagement: We will monitor the adoption rates among enterprises and measure the volume and scale of enterprise projects deployed on Cardano.

Sharing Outputs and Opportunities:

• Open Source Repository: All code, documentation, and updates will be available in our open-source repository, accessible to anyone wishing to use or contribute to Cardano.Sync.
• Community Workshops and Webinars: We will host regular educational sessions to help developers and enterprises maximize the utility of Cardano.Sync.
• Collaborations and Partnerships: By partnering with other projects and organizations within the Cardano ecosystem, we will broaden the reach and impact of Cardano.Sync, ensuring it supports a wide range of use cases.

Through these measures, Cardano.Sync aims to not only enhance the capabilities of developers and enterprises within the Cardano ecosystem but also to drive broader and more innovative use of the Cardano platform, contributing significantly to its growth and relevance in the blockchain space.

[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?

With over 15 years of full-stack development experience spanning cloud, gaming, mobile, and server platforms, my comprehensive background positions me uniquely to lead this initiative. As the founder of SAIB Inc., a company specializing in blockchain technologies, I have successfully spearheaded several innovative projects on the Cardano platform. My involvement with key entities such as TxPipe, dcSpark, and the Cardano Foundation exemplifies a deep commitment to and a strong understanding of the Cardano ecosystem. Additionally, my experience running the ADAPH stake pool and my contributions to open-source Cardano tools reflect my capability to enhance the blockchain's functionality and accessibility.

The project will be co-managed by Marty, who has demonstrated considerable skill in managing diverse and complex projects such as Coinecta Finance, Ergopad, Paideia, and Crux Finance. His background also includes freelance web development and leading a team of contractors, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently and effectively.

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

Comprehensive Library Enhancement (Month 1-2)

• Objective: Broaden the functionality of Cardano.Sync to make it more versatile and robust, including exposing additional Cardano blockchain details such as withdrawal certificates and stake pool certificates as part of a wider range of enhancements.

• Deliverables:
• Updated source code that not only incorporates the exposure of new Cardano details like withdrawal and stake pool certificates but also extends other functionalities to support more diverse use cases.

• Progress report detailing the development status, including integration of new features and challenges addressed.

Stability Enhancement and Performance Optimization (Month 3-4)

• Objective: Improve the stability and performance of Cardano.Sync, ensuring that the newly integrated features and the broader enhancements from Milestone 1 operate efficiently and reliably under various conditions.

• Deliverables:
• Source code updates featuring stability improvements and performance optimizations to handle increased loads and complex queries efficiently.

• A comprehensive performance report that details benchmarks, optimizations implemented, and results of stress testing to ensure robust operation.

Documentation Website and Landing Page Development (Month 4-5)

• Objective: Develop and finalize a comprehensive documentation website and a professional landing page that clearly communicates the value of Cardano.Sync and provides extensive support resources for users. This includes detailed guides, samples, use case examples, and tutorial videos, ensuring that all potential and existing users can maximize the library's capabilities.

• Deliverables:
• A fully functional and informative landing page that effectively introduces Cardano.Sync to new users and highlights its features and benefits.

• A comprehensive documentation website that includes:
• Detailed guides on how to set up and start using Cardano.Sync.
• Practical examples and code samples that demonstrate common and advanced use cases.
• Tutorial videos that guide users through complex processes and feature implementations.
• Marketing materials prepared for the launch, including feature highlight videos, promotional articles, and brochures.
• A detailed progress report outlining the development and preparation stages of the website and documentation resources.

Official Launch and Community Outreach (Month 5-6)

• Objective: Execute the official launch of the updated Cardano.Sync website and its comprehensive documentation. This milestone is designed to effectively introduce the library to a wider audience, facilitate community engagement, and begin gathering user feedback.

• Deliverables:
• Official launch of the Cardano.Sync website and the full documentation suite, including tutorials, use cases, and sample projects.
• Organized launch events such as webinars, live Q&A sessions, and online workshops, which will serve to educate potential users and stakeholders about the features and benefits of Cardano.Sync.
• Initial marketing campaign executed across various channels to raise awareness and promote usage among the target audience.
• Community engagement report summarizing the reception, feedback, and interaction metrics from the community, providing insights into the initial impact and areas for potential improvement.

Project Close-Out and Impact Reporting (Month 5-6)

• Objective: Successfully conclude the project by compiling and documenting all findings, experiences, and outcomes. Produce a detailed project close-out report and video that highlight the successes, challenges, and future opportunities for Cardano.Sync.

• Deliverables:
• Project Close-Out Report: A comprehensive document detailing the project's objectives, what was achieved, any deviations from the original plan, lessons learned, and recommendations for future projects.
• Video Documentation: A professionally produced video that summarizes the project, showcasing key features, the impact on the community, and user testimonials. This video serves as both a promotional tool and an educational resource for current and future stakeholders.
• Final Presentation: A presentation that includes an overview of the close-out report and video, discussing the project’s impact, user adoption metrics, and feedback received.

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

The Team is from SAIB Inc. (https://saib.dev)

Management: Marty - https://twitter.com/esot321c 

Team Lead: Clark Alesna - https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkalesna/

Backend Engineer: Reza Jhay Lacanlale - https://www.linkedin.com/in/reza-jhay-lacanlale/

Frontend Engineer: Alphonzo Escolar - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alphonzo-escolar-922b152a7/

Marketing and Quality: Melissa Naomi Legara - https://www.linkedin.com/in/misai-legara/

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

25,000 ADA for 3 Developers work spanning Library / API features and ehancements, documentation and frontend development.

Developer Salaries Total Costs: 150,000 ADA

Total of 30,000 ADA for Marketing Materials, Design, Videos, Webinar and Q/A sessions production.

10,000 ADA for Development Infrastructure, CI & CD servers and other server / hosting requirements.

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

The budget for Cardano.Sync is carefully structured around competitive salary rates that reflect the cost of living and industry standards in the geographic locations of our existing development team. This ensures fair compensation for our skilled professionals who are integral to the project's success.

We include necessary costs for infrastructure and promotional activities, crucial for the effective delivery and adoption of Cardano.Sync within the community. These expenses are calculated based on market rates and are vital for supporting the project’s deployment and visibility.

Our six-month timeline is strategically planned based on a comprehensive assessment of the project’s scope and the capabilities of our team, ensuring that all phases, from development to launch, are executed efficiently and to high standards.

By maintaining financial prudence and aligning our budget with realistic regional salary benchmarks and operational needs, this project promises substantial value for money. It aims to enhance the Cardano ecosystem’s infrastructure and promote wider adoption, including by enterprises, thereby driving significant growth and utilization across various industries.