Real-world job contract signing on Cardano utilizing SSI

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Henrik Metsämäki

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

Entity (Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Requested funds in ada

257500

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

7

[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)

Building an MVP of a DApp that facilitates DID-based job contract signing and employment VC issuing on Cardano.

[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

This project adopts a dual-licensing approach to the open-source status of its project outputs. Here's a breakdown of this strategy:

1. Open-Source Version (MIT License):

• The core functionalities of the DApp, including the smart contract code and core user interface components, will be released under a permissive open-source license like the MIT License.
• This allows anyone to freely access, modify, and distribute the code for non-commercial purposes.
• Open-sourcing the core functionalities fosters community development, attracts developer contributions, and promotes transparency in the development process.

2. Commercially Licensed Version:

• An extended version of the DApp with additional features and functionalities tailored for commercial use will be available under a separate commercial license.
• This commercial license will restrict usage to businesses and organizations that require these additional features for deployment in a production environment.
• The specific terms of the commercial license will be defined to ensure appropriate compensation for the extended functionalities and ongoing support.

Our dual-licensing approach fosters a vibrant development community through an open-source core (MIT License), while ensuring project sustainability through a commercially licensed version with additional features. This transparency allows users to choose between the free version for non-commercial use or the feature-rich commercial version, all with clear licensing and comprehensive documentation.

[METADATA] SDG rating

SDG Goal 8. Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all

• 8.5 - By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value
• 8.6 - By 2020, substantially reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training

SDG Goal 9. Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation.

SDG Goal 10. Reduce inequality within and among countries

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Inspired by Cardano's focus on decentralized identity and our success in utilizing verifiable credentials (VCs) in recruitment, we investigated how SSI could enable and enhance user interactions with Cardano DApps.

We have previously created a prototype that facilitates users requesting employment credentials on our recruitment platform once they reach an agreement with their employer. The employer then issues an employment credential to the user’s SSI-wallet, but all of this occurred within our Web2 platform. A vital part of recruitment is contract signing which we soon realized can not be achieved without the users sharing their credentials with us. Even though the user’s credential is stored securely in their SSI wallet, for the real world application the data flows through a centralized platform or application which is a single point failure, vulnerability and goes against the basic concept of decentralization. Additionally, this hinders the utilization of SSI in privacy preserving use-cases such as compliance and contract signing.

In order to effectively utilize DIDs and VCs as the technology was intended for, there is a necessity to remove the centralized middle man. In this project we want to build MVP of a blockchain DApp that would handle the signing and management of contract data seamlessly without relying on a centralized platform. Concerns are data security, verifiable signatures and credential issuing by the smart contract. This proposal focuses on taking our existing prototype and turning the employment offer and contract creation to a Web3 native component.

Our solution is to create a user-friendly and secure way to leverage Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs) for signing real job contracts on the Cardano blockchain. We'll achieve this by developing a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) in the form of a Decentralized Application (DApp).

Here's a breakdown of the core functionalities:

1. DID Integration: The DApp will allow job seekers and employers to connect their DIDs securely. This establishes their digital identities within the application. (In prototype we have done DID integration, but to a Web2 application)
2. Smart Contract for Signing: A smart contract will be developed to facilitate the signing of job contracts between job seekers and employers. Furthermore, we will explore if it would be possible to the contract signatures contain references to Credentials associated to the signing DID wallet addresses.
3. Secure Storage and Verification: Once signed, the contract signatures and hash details will be securely stored on the Cardano blockchain. This ensures immutability and tamper-proof records.
4. Verifiable Credential (VC) Issuance: Upon successful signing of the contract, the smart contract will automatically issue a Verifiable Credential (VC) of employment. These VCs will contain details like signatures, signer DIDs, job contract information, and an on-chain reference for verification and can be used to verify the authenticity of the contract.

Even though these functionalities and smart contracts are developed for a specific use case for Fairway, their logic and use case is common in many applications and can be utilized by other community members to create contract signatures on DApps due the open source licensing included in this proposal.

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

This project aims to deliver a positive and measurable impact on the Cardano community by:

1. Expanding Real-World Use Cases:

• A successful MVP DApp showcasing DID-based job contract signing paves the way for similar solutions in other industries, demonstrating Cardano's real-world utility beyond its current use cases.

2. Providing Community New Tools through Open Sourcing:

• Open-sourcing the DApp's design research and core functionalities encourages developer adoption and attracts talent to the Cardano ecosystem.
• Collaboration with the community through workshops and presentations fosters innovation and leverages collective expertise.

3. Building Trust and Transparency:

• Secure job contract signing with DIDs minimizes the risk of fraud and tampering, building trust within the recruitment sector and by extension the Cardano ecosystem.

By creating a valuable tool and fostering a collaborative environment, this project contributes to the growth and success of the Cardano community.

[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?

Our team is comprised of driven individuals with a proven track record of delivering on Catalyst projects. Specifically, we have completed two projects related to verified credentials. In partnership with higher education institutions in the public and in the private sector in Ethiopia, we have facilitated the issuing of 50 proof of graduation VCs. These experiences have provided us with a better understanding of the entire ecosystem, and we have only improved since then.

Moreover, we have been actively working in the hiring space and have implemented a prototype of the solution in the Web2–SSI context. This has given us a strong grasp of how the system should function and the main challenges we may face. We are confident that we will be able to navigate through these issues to successfully complete the project. Our network within the community is robust, allowing us to engage with different stakeholders effectively. We regularly converse with entities such as the PRISM ecosystem, IOG developers, and SSI providers like Proofspace, with whom we have collaborated previously.

Furthermore, we are developing this DApp with intentions to utilize it in our existing platform. The successful completion of this project is highly motivating as it fosters a better brand outlook for Fairway and its’ partners. Throughout the project, we are committed to clear communication and transparency. In addition to Catalyst Reporting, we publish our progress on a Notion board for community members to view. Currently, our team consists of seven developers with diverse expertise in frontend, backend, Marlowe playground, and the PRISM Pioneers course. We are always open to new blockchain developer additions so shoot us a message if you want along.

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

Design system architecture and initial UX (Duration: 1 Month)

• Develop a detailed user story document outlining the functionalities and user flows of the DApp.
• Design the high-level system architecture, including DApp components, smart contract interactions, and data flow.
• Select appropriate libraries and tools for DID integration and smart contract development.

DApp User Interface Development and Verifiable Credential Design (Duration: 2 Months)

• Develop the front-end user interface (UI) of the DApp, allowing users to connect their DIDs, upload job contracts and sign them.
• Define the schema for the Verifiable Credential (VC) of employment. This includes specifying the data elements to be included in the VC, such as signatures, contract details, and issuance details.
• Develop the logic for generating and issuing VCs using the smart contract upon successful contract signing.

Smart Contract Development (Duration: 2 Months)

• Develop and unit test the smart contract for job contract signing. This includes functionalities for:
• Requiring the DID of both job seekers and employers
• Secure storage of signed contract data on the Cardano blockchain
• Triggering VCs issuance upon successful contract signing
• Utilize Marlowe and/or Plutus for smart contract development, adhering to Cardano security best practices.
• Create a test environment for simulating DID connections, signing transactions, and issuing VCs.
• Conduct internal testing of the smart contract functionalities.

DApp Integration (Duration: 1 Month)

• Integrate the DApp with the developed smart contract for seamless interaction.
• Implement functionalities for secure DID connection
• Integration of the DApp to replace part of the existing Web2 platform flow

MVP Prototype and Testing (Duration: 1 Month)

• Deploy the complete MVP DApp on a Cardano testnet environment.
• Conduct user testing with a group of job seekers and employers.
• Gather feedback and iterate on the DApp based on user testing results.
• Present the MVP prototype to the Cardano community and gather feedback for future development.
• Project Close-out Report and Project Close-out Video (PCR and PCV)

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

To successfully develop this MVP for DID-based job contract signing and VC issuance on Cardano, we propose assembling a dedicated team with expertise in blockchain technology, recruitment processes, and software development. Here's a breakdown of the core team members and their anticipated roles:

Project Lead (1 Person) Heikki Ruhanen: Responsible for overall project management, including budget oversight, timeline adherence, and communication with stakeholders.

• Possesses strong leadership skills and experience in managing software development projects.

UX/UI Designer (1 Person) Fairway:Proven experience in user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design principles.

• Conducts user research to understand the needs and pain points of recruiters and job seekers when it comes to job contracts.
• Develops intuitive and user-friendly interfaces for the DApp, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for all users.
• Creates wireframes and mockups to visualize the DApp's functionality and user flow.
• Collaborates with developers to ensure a seamless integration of design elements into the DApp.

Backend Developer (1 Person) Kidus Wendimagegn Mammo: Proficient in the Django framework

• Responsible for developing the server-side logic, database integration, and API development for the DApp.
• Works closely with the DApp developers to ensure smooth integration of backend functionalities with the frontend.

Frontend Developer (1 Person) Abrham Bunaro:Responsible for building responsive and user-friendly web interfaces.

• Collaborates closely with the UX/UI designer to ensure the DApp's design is implemented as per the specifications and provides a seamless user experience.

Blockchain Developer (DApp + smart contracts) (1 person) Ermias Bunaro:Highly skilled in Cardano smart contract development using Marlowe and/or Plutus.

• Experience with secure coding practices and blockchain security principles.
• Experience with integrating blockchain functionalities into user interfaces.
• Responsible for developing and testing the smart contract functionalities for DID verification, contract storage, and VC issuance.

Recruitment Specialist (1 Person):In-depth knowledge of recruitment processes and best practices.

• Provides valuable insights into user needs and workflows for job contract management.
• Collaborates with developers to ensure the DApp aligns with real-world recruitment scenarios.

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

Requested Funding: 257500 ADA

Cost Breakdown by Milestones:

Milestone 1 Design system architecture and initial UX (Duration: 1 Months) - 23,400 ADA

• Develop a detailed user story document outlining the functionalities and user flows of the DApp.
• UI-developer
• Project manager
• Design the high-level system architecture, including DApp components, smart contract interactions, and data flow.
• Select appropriate libraries and tools for DID integration and smart contract development.

Milestone 2 DApp User Interface Development and Verifiable Credential Design (Duration: 2 Months) 67,800 ADA

• Develop the front-end user interface (UI) of the DApp, allowing users to connect their DIDs, upload job contracts and sign them.
• Define the schema for the Verifiable Credential (VC) of employment. This includes specifying the data elements to be included in the VC, such as signatures, contract details, and issuance details.
• Develop the logic for generating and issuing VCs using the smart contract upon successful contract signing.

Milestone 3 Smart Contract Development (Duration: 2 Months) - 78,900 ADA

• Develop and unit test the smart contract for job contract signing. This includes functionalities for:
• Requiring the DID of both job seekers and employers
• Secure storage of signed contract data on the Cardano blockchain
• Triggering VCs issuance upon successful contract signing
• Utilize Marlowe and/or Plutus for smart contract development, adhering to Cardano security best practices.
• Create a test environment for simulating DID connections, signing transactions, and issuing VCs.
• Conduct internal testing of the smart contract functionalities.

Milestone 4 DApp Integration (Duration: 1 Months) - 34,800 ADA

• Integrate the DApp with the developed smart contract for seamless interaction.
• Implement functionalities for secure DID connection
• Integration of the DApp to replace part of the existing Web2 platform flow

Final Milestone: MVP Prototype and Testing (Duration: 1 Month) - 52,600 ADA

• Deploy the complete MVP DApp on a Cardano testnet environment.
• Conduct user testing with a group of job seekers and employers.
• Gather feedback and iterate on the DApp based on user testing results.
• Present the MVP prototype to the Cardano community and gather feedback for future development.
• Project Close-out Report and Project Close-out Video (PCR and PCV)

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

This project offers significant value for the Cardano ecosystem by:

1. Unlocking Real-World Use Cases:

• Demonstrates a practical application of Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs) for on-chain identity management and document signing in the recruitment space.
• A successful implementation paves the way for similar solutions in other industries, expanding Cardano's real-world utility beyond its current use cases.

2. Usable Tooling for building SSI-integrated DApps in other community projects:

• The output is a DApp that integrates SSI identity to signing real world contracts on cardano. Additionally the contractual data is stored in a credential that is issued. This tooling can be utilized in multiple real world use cases and applications in Cardano.
• The open sourcing status of the project ensures that any community projects might take advantage of the tools built during this project.

3. Attracting New Users and Developers:

• A user-friendly DApp for job contract management simplifies onboarding for new users to the Cardano ecosystem.
• Open-sourcing the design research and core functionalities attracts developers, fostering innovation and expanding the developer community.

4. Demonstrating Technical Innovation:

• Explores and pushes the boundaries of DID integration with smart contracts for real-world purposes.
• This project contributes to the overall technical development of Cardano and showcases its potential for diverse applications.

5. Cost-Effective Development:

• The proposed budget represents a cost-effective approach to achieve these valuable outcomes.
• The development of a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) allows for initial testing and refinement before further investment.

Overall, the cost of this project represents excellent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem. By successfully demonstrating DID-based job contract signing, it unlocks real-world use cases, providing valuable tools for the community, attracts new users and developers, showcases technical innovation, and achieves these outcomes within a cost-effective budget.