Empowering Workforce Management: Leveraging Blockchain for Professional Identity in an $88.19bn Industry

[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 will create a blockchain-powered CRM system that automates timesheet approvals and generates professional profiles, rewarding employees with digital tokens.

[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

If declared open source, key components of our blockchain integration and smart contracts will be open-sourced to foster community contributions and ensure transparency. Proprietary elements, such as specific algorithms for token distribution and certain CRM functionalities, will remain closed to maintain competitive advantages.

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Our proposed solution is to develop a cutting-edge CRM system integrated with Cardano blockchain technology, focusing on automating and enhancing the management of employee timesheets and creating immutable professional identities. This system will utilize smart contracts for validating and approving timesheets, which will then automatically reward employees with tokens directly linked to their productivity and professional achievements.

Perception of the Problem:

We recognize that current workforce management systems lack transparency and efficiency, often leading to discrepancies in timesheet approvals and delays in compensation. Furthermore, employees lack a verifiable method to carry their professional milestones and reputations from one job to another securely.

Approach:

Our approach leverages the decentralized and secure nature of blockchain to solve these issues. By automating timesheet approvals through smart contracts, we ensure that data cannot be tampered with, thereby increasing transparency and trust between employers and employees. The token rewards system not only provides immediate compensation but also motivates sustained employee engagement.

Engagement:

This project will engage with HR departments, managers, and employees across various industries looking to improve their HR operations. We will also engage with the Cardano community by inviting developers and blockchain experts to contribute to the open-source components of our project.

Demonstration of Impact:

We will measure our impact through user adoption rates, the reduction in timesheet approval times, and employee feedback on the new system. Success will be demonstrated by increased efficiency in HR processes, higher employee satisfaction, and broader adoption of the Cardano blockchain.

Unique Aspects and Benefits to Cardano:

What sets our solution apart is the integration of a real-world application—employee timesheet management—with blockchain technology, specifically tailored to the Cardano ecosystem. This not only showcases the practical use of Cardano’s capabilities in enterprise solutions but also promotes its adoption across business operations. Our solution will benefit the Cardano community by demonstrating a profitable and efficient use case of blockchain in HR tech, potentially leading to more widespread adoption of Cardano's technology in other sectors.

This solution aligns with Cardano's vision of creating more transparent, efficient, and trustful systems, demonstrating the platform's scalability and real-world applicability.

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

Our project will have a significant positive impact on the wider Cardano community by demonstrating the practical utility of the Cardano blockchain in a real-world application, specifically in the realm of human resources and workforce management. This not only showcases the adaptability and efficiency of Cardano's blockchain technology but also potentially drives broader adoption across various industries.

Impact on the Cardano Community:

1. Promotion of Cardano’s Blockchain: By using Cardano for secure and transparent timesheet management and professional identity verification, we will showcase its capabilities in handling complex, real-world business processes. This can increase Cardano's visibility and credibility as a platform suitable for enterprise solutions.
2. Driving Adoption: As businesses observe the benefits and efficiencies gained from our system, it could lead to increased adoption of Cardano's technology in other sectors and applications, expanding its user base. Our implementation strategy will facilitate the seamless adoption of blockchain technology, often without end users even realizing they are utilizing blockchain-based solutions.
3. Community Growth and Engagement: The project will engage the Cardano community by opening parts of our code as open-source. This invites developers and enthusiasts to contribute, improve, and build upon our work, fostering a collaborative ecosystem.
4. Accelerating Web3 Adoption: By embedding blockchain technology into everyday business processes transparently, we accelerate the inevitable shift towards Web3 technologies, making blockchain an integral, yet unobtrusive, part of business and everyday life.

Measurement of Impact:

• Quantitative Measures: We will track the number of businesses adopting our CRM system, the transaction volumes processed on the Cardano blockchain through our application, and the reduction in timesheet approval times. Additionally, we will monitor the increase in Cardano network activity as a result of our system.
• Qualitative Measures: Feedback from users regarding the system's efficiency and reliability will be gathered. We will also assess the broader industry's reception and adaptation to blockchain-based HR systems, especially those built on Cardano.

By achieving these goals, our project will bring substantial value to the Cardano community, reinforcing its position as a leading blockchain platform capable of transforming business practices across various industries while accelerating the adoption of Web3 technologies.

[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 a decade of experience in developing CRM solutions, I have a deep-seated passion for transforming the CRM industry to enhance efficiency and usability. My journey has been driven by a commitment to overcoming the prevalent challenges in the CRM market—complexity, lack of universal applicability, and high costs associated with quality systems. I am determined to break these barriers by introducing a new solution that is not only easy to use but also affordable and accessible for businesses of all sizes.

Capability and Trustworthiness:

1. Proven Track Record: Over the past ten years, I have successfully developed and deployed CRM solution that have significantly improved business operations for my former employee. This experience has endowed me with a profound understanding of what businesses need and the technological expertise to fulfill those needs.
2. Dedication to Innovation: My dedication to creating more accessible and cost-effective CRM solutions demonstrates my commitment to not just business success but also to ethical practices in software development and deployment.

Validating Feasibility:

• Pilot Testing: To ensure the feasibility of the new blockchain-based CRM system, we will conduct comprehensive pilot testing with select businesses from different sectors. This will allow us to gather real-world data on usability, efficiency, and the system's impact on business operations.
• Feedback Loops: We will establish continuous feedback loops with these initial users to refine and adjust the system based on practical needs and challenges encountered during the pilot phase.

Managing Funds:

• Transparent Budgeting and Reporting: Every stage of the project will be documented with detailed budgeting and regular financial reports. These reports will be made available to also all stakeholders to ensure transparency.

As an active member of the Cardano community for the past five years, I have a robust understanding of the ecosystem and its capabilities. My participation in multiple Cardano-related events has not only deepened my knowledge but also expanded my network within the community. This engagement ensures that I am well-positioned to leverage community resources and expertise effectively.

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

Milestone 1: Development of Timesheet and HR Management Apps

Objective: Develop and launch a timesheet application for employees and a corresponding web application for HR management. This initial version will operate off-chain.

• Key Actions:
• Design and develop the user interfaces and backend systems for both the timesheet app and the web application.
• Conduct initial testing with target user groups to refine usability and functionality.
• Evidence of Completion:
• Release of both applications to a controlled group of users.
• Feedback reports and usability tests results documenting initial user engagement.

Milestone 2: Integration of Blockchain for Professional ID and Token Rewards

Objective: Integrate blockchain technology to securely capture "Professional ID" on-chain and manage token rewards within the system.

• Key Actions:
• Develop and deploy smart contracts to handle professional IDs and reward mechanisms.
• Create educational materials to explain the benefits and functionality of the token rewards.
• Evidence of Completion:
• Deployment of smart contracts on a testnet followed by a mainnet launch.
• Distribution of explainer materials and training sessions for users.

Milestone 3: Creation of NFT-based Proof of Ownership

Objective: Develop a system to issue NFTs that serve as proof of professional achievements and ownership.

• Key Actions:
• Design the NFT architecture to represent individual professional credentials and milestones securely.
• Implement NFT minting and management functionality within the existing apps.
• Evidence of Completion:
• Demonstration of the NFT minting process and its integration into the professional profiles.
• Case studies or testimonials from users on the utility of NFTs in representing their professional identity.

Milestone 4: Full System Integration and Launch

A: Milestone Outputs

• Integrated System: A fully integrated system combining the timesheet app, HR webapp, and blockchain components including smart contracts for Professional IDs and token rewards.
• Public Launch: Official release of the system to the public with complete functionalities.
• User Documentation: Comprehensive user manuals and system documentation to aid in onboarding and everyday use.
• Marketing Campaign: Launch of a marketing campaign to promote the system within the Cardano community and to potential business users.

B: Acceptance Criteria

• System Functionality: The integrated system must function seamlessly, with all components (timesheet app, HR webapp, blockchain for Professional IDs, and token rewards) working as expected without critical bugs.
• User Feedback: Positive feedback from beta testers indicating that the system meets the user requirements and is easy to use.
• Security Audit: Successful completion of a security audit of the blockchain components with no major issues found.
• Compliance Check: Compliance with relevant data protection and blockchain regulations.

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• System Deployment Records: Documentation of the deployment process and final system configurations proving that all parts are integrated and operational.
• User Feedback Reports: Compiled reports of user feedback from the final testing phase, highlighting system performance and user satisfaction.
• Audit Reports: A final report from the security audit of the blockchain components.
• Compliance Certification: Documentation or certification from a legal consultant confirming the system’s compliance with the necessary regulations.
• Marketing Materials and Campaign Results: Evidence of the marketing campaign’s launch and initial impact metrics, such as reach and engagement statistics.

This milestone encapsulates the culmination of all project activities into a fully operational system, ready for public use. By clearly defining these elements, you demonstrate a thorough understanding of what is required to successfully complete and deliver the project. This structured approach also ensures that the progress can be clearly measured and validated, providing reassurance to the stakeholders and funders of the project.

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

Current Team Members:

1. Martin Polasek - Project Lead & Developer

• Role: Overseeing the project development, managing blockchain integration, and maintaining overall system architecture. With extensive experience in CRM development and passion for innovating within the industry.
• LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-polasek-b1488a116/

1. Catherine McKay - Sales and CRM Expert

• Role: Responsible for customer acquisition, feedback integration, and ensuring the product meets market needs. Has a deep understanding of CRM systems and their practical applications.

Recruitment Plan for New Team Members:

Xcode Developer

• Skills Required: Proficiency in Swift and Xcode, experience with iOS app development, understanding of integrating applications with backend services.
• Role: Will be tasked with developing and maintaining the iPhone app for employees, ensuring a seamless interface with the backend and blockchain components.

Plutus Developer

• Skills Required: In-depth knowledge of Cardano’s smart contract platform, Plutus. Experience in developing and deploying smart contracts.
• Role: Responsible for creating and managing the smart contracts for the professional ID and token rewards system.

WebApp Developer

• Skills Required: Strong experience in web development technologies (e.g., JavaScript, React, Node.js), familiarity with interfacing web applications with blockchain networks.
• Role: Will develop and maintain the web application for HR managers, integrating it with the blockchain to ens

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

Development Costs:

1. Salaries for New Hires:

• Xcode Developer: $40,000 for 12 months
• Plutus Developer: $50,000 for 12 months
• WebApp Developer: $40,000 for 12 months
• Total: $130,000

1. Existing Team Compensation:

• Project Lead & Developer: $70,000 for project oversight and development
• Sales and CRM Expert: $30,000 for sales, marketing, and CRM integration
• Total: $100,000

Software and API Subscriptions:

• Blockchain API Services (for connecting CRM with Cardano blockchain): $2,000
• Development Tools and Licenses (including IDEs, GitHub, cloud services): $3,000
• CRM and Office Software Subscriptions: $1,000
• Total: $6,000

Professional Services:

• Legal and Accounting Services: $10,000 (to ensure compliance with regulations and financial management)
• Code Auditing: $5,000 (for security auditing of smart contracts and other backend code)
• Total: $15,000

Other Costs:

• Marketing and Community Engagement: $5,000 (for promoting the project within the Cardano community and broader market)
• Project Management and Reporting: $4,000 (tools and services to manage the project timeline, deliverables, and communications with stakeholders)
• Total: $9,000

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

Justification of Costs:

1. Development Salaries:

• Xcode, Plutus, and WebApp Developers: The salaries for these roles are set at industry-standard rates, reflective of the average wage for developers with specialized skills in blockchain (Plutus) and app development (Xcode, Web technologies) in our country.
• This investment ensures that skilled professionals capable of delivering high-quality, innovative solutions will lead the development.

1. Project Lead & Sales Expert Compensation:

• The compensation for existing team members with a decade of experience in CRM and blockchain integration is set slightly below the top-tier industry standard to stretch the value of the Catalyst funding further. This reflects our commitment to the project’s success over personal gain.

1. Professional Services and Software Costs:

• Costs associated with legal, accounting, and code auditing services are based on typical market rates for these professional services. They are essential to ensuring that the project adheres to legal standards and maintains high-security levels, thus protecting the Cardano ecosystem and its users.
• Software and API subscription costs are minimal and aligned with the actual market prices for these services, ensuring efficient project development and operation without unnecessary expenditures.

Value for Money for Cardano:

1. Innovative Use Case Implementation:

• By developing a CRM system integrated with the Cardano blockchain, the project not only addresses a real-world problem but also demonstrates Cardano’s utility in business applications beyond mere financial transactions. This broadens the scope and appeal of Cardano, potentially increasing adoption rates across various industries.

1. Community Growth and Engagement:

• Part of the budget is allocated to community engagement and marketing, which will increase awareness of Cardano’s capabilities within and beyond the existing community. This helps in growing the user base and encouraging more developers and businesses to consider Cardano for their solutions.

1. Sustainable Development Model:

• By making key components open-source, we ensure that the developments made through this project will continue to provide value beyond the initial investment. This creates opportunities for ongoing improvement and innovation, enhancing the sustainability of the Cardano ecosystem.

1. Strategic Investment in Talent:

• Investing in high-caliber talent for development and management ensures that the project is executed efficiently and at a high standard. This not only maximizes the chances of project success but also sets a high-quality benchmark for future projects within the Cardano ecosystem.