Please describe your proposed solution.

Our proposed solution is to build a Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO) for car sharing on the Cardano blockchain. We perceive the current problem as twofold: a lack of user autonomy and inefficiencies stemming from centralized systems in the car-sharing industry.

Our approach utilizes blockchain's inherent transparency, security, and decentralization to solve these issues. We aim to transform car sharing into a peer-to-peer system, where any individual can participate and benefit, creating a true sharing economy. The DAO's role will be to manage the car sharing rules, resolve disputes, and facilitate transparent and secure transactions using ADA.

Our project will engage car owners and potential renters, as well as the broader Cardano community interested in seeing real-world applications of blockchain technology. We aim to demonstrate our impact by tracking Key Performance Indicators such as the number of active users, total ADA transacted for car sharing, and user satisfaction ratings.

The uniqueness of our solution lies in its potential to demonstrate a practical, day-to-day use case for Cardano's blockchain technology. By showing how Cardano can be used to enable secure and efficient transactions in a decentralized car-sharing context, we hope to promote wider adoption of Cardano. This solution will benefit both car owners and renters by providing them with a more accessible, flexible, and affordable car-sharing solution, while also contributing to the larger goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation.

How does your proposed solution address the challenge and what benefits will this bring to the Cardano ecosystem?

Our proposed solution directly addresses the challenge by leveraging our team's expertise in blockchain technology, software development, and quality assurance to contribute to the growth and enhancement of the Cardano ecosystem.

Here are the key impacts and benefits our project will bring to Cardano:

1. Enhanced User Experience: Our collective experience in software development and quality assurance enables us to deliver applications that are not just functional but also user-friendly
2. Software Quality and Reliability: Our project emphasizes rigorous software quality assurance
3. Community Growth: Our project, through its deliverables, aims to attract more developers and businesses to the Cardano ecosystem
4. Empowering the Ecosystem: By addressing existing challenges in a user-friendly and efficient manner, we strengthen the Cardano ecosystem

We are realistic in our expectations and foresee a gradual increase in usage as our project progresses and matures. Within a reasonable timeframe post-project completion, we aim to engage a significant number of users, thereby contributing to the overall activity and vibrancy of the Cardano ecosystem.

How do you intend to measure the success of your project?

The success of our project will be gauged through a combination of both quantitative and qualitative measures.

Quantitative Measures:

1. Completion of User Stories: We will track the successful completion of each user story within our sprints, with a focus on meeting the clear acceptance criteria we have established
2. Project Milestones: We'll measure the successful delivery of the increment within its timeline
3. Code Quality Metrics: We will leverage software quality metrics to ensure the highest quality of our deliverable

Qualitative Measures:

1. User Feedback: We will collect and analyze feedback from our user
2. Community Engagement: We will gauge community engagement and sentiment via social media channels, discussion forums, and other platform

In terms of the project's impact on Cardano’s productivity and growth, in the short term, our project aims to deliver tangible, functional solutions that address existing challenges. The improvements we make will contribute to enhancing the overall efficiency of the Cardano ecosystem.

In the long term, our project aims to foster innovation within the ecosystem. By providing reliable and high-quality solutions, we'll encourage more developers and businesses to build on the Cardano blockchain. This can lead to an increase in dApps and other use cases for Cardano, ultimately contributing to the network's growth and the value of ADA.

Please describe your plans to share the outputs and results of your project?

The results and outputs of our project will be shared widely with multiple stakeholders to maximize impact and potential for further development.

1. Sharing with the Community: We plan to regularly update the Cardano community through Cardano's Catalyst Town Hall meetings and posts on the Catalyst Discord server, Cardano forums, and social media platform
2. Open-Source Development: All code generated from this project will be open-source and available on GitHub
3. User Training: We will conduct user education campaigns to help users understand how to use the platform and benefits of decentralization
4. Partnerships: We will actively seek to collaborate with existing car-sharing platforms and local government bodies to integrate our solution, thus increasing the reach and adoption

In terms of utilizing the results for further R&D, the data gathered (while ensuring user privacy) will give us valuable insights into user behavior, transaction patterns, and potential areas of improvement. These insights can guide further iterations of our platform and inspire new features. Additionally, the architecture of our solution could serve as a blueprint for other DAOs in different sectors aiming to harness Cardano's capabilities.

What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability?

As PeakSoft GmbH, a Germany-based consulting company, we bring an extensive range of skills and experiences to the table, making us uniquely positioned to deliver this project.

• Company Reputation and Track Record: Over the years, we have established ourselves as a trusted entity, working with large-scale applications and big clients. Our projects' success, including partnerships with leading German automakers, underscores our ability to deliver high-quality results and manage large-scale projects efficiently.
• Solid Team Foundation: Our company boasts six full-time employees, each bringing their expertise in diverse disciplines such as software development, quality assurance, project management, and blockchain technology. This strong internal structure will ensure that all aspects of our project are managed effectively.
• Extended Resources: Beyond our internal team, we have access to an extensive network of external consultants. Should the need arise, we can swiftly deploy additional resources to ensure our project progresses without disruption.
• Web2 and Web3 Expertise: Our team members are pioneers in both web2 and web3 technologies. We have in-depth experience in large-scale software quality assurance and application development. Furthermore, our involvement as Plutus Pioneers and Atala PRISM Pioneers showcases our deep-rooted understanding and commitment to the Cardano ecosystem.
• Transparency and Accountability: We prioritize maintaining clear communication with the community. Regular progress reports and periodic webinars and Q&A sessions will be organized to keep stakeholders updated. Our stringent budgeting and auditing procedures will ensure that funds are managed appropriately and used as intended.

While our current budget allows for the completion of our proposed project, we may consider seeking additional funding in future Catalyst rounds. This would enable us to introduce new features and expand our project's scope. Any additional funding required will be detailed in a separate, new proposal.

To track the progress of our project, we'll implement Agile methodologies, particularly Scrum, and set clear acceptance criteria for each project component and deliverable. We'll also make use of Scrum boards and product backlogs to provide a transparent and constantly updated view of our progress.

For us, success is not merely about reaching milestones. It also involves accomplishing our established acceptance criteria and user stories within our sprints, and successfully delivering the first product increment within the proposed timeline. In essence, success means delivering a product that meets our high-quality standards and offers real value to the Cardano ecosystem.

What are the main goals for the project and how will you validate if your approach is feasible?

Our main goals for the Cardano-based CarSharing DAO initiative are:

1. Develop a DAO on the Cardano blockchain: This involves creating smart contracts to govern the car sharing platform, manage disputes, and facilitate transaction
2. Create a user-friendly interface: The project aims to provide a seamless mobile and web application experience for users who wish to list their cars for sharing or find cars to ren
3. Attract a diverse user base: Strive for significant adoption among car owners and renters in the initial period following launch
4. Promote active use of the platform: Encourage regular car sharing transactions through the platform
5. Ensure user satisfaction: Aim for positive user experience feedback regarding platform us

To validate the feasibility of our approach, we will adopt a phased strategy:

1. Phase 1 - Prototype Development: We will develop an initial version of the DAO and interface, which will be tested internally and with a group of early adopters
2. Phase 2 - User Feedback and Iteration: Feedback will be continually sought and used to refine and improve our solution
3. Phase 3 - Beta Launch: The platform will be officially launched, with continuous feedback collection and iteration to ensure user needs are being me

The achievement of our goals will be determined by observing trends in user adoption, transaction frequency, and user satisfaction feedback. For the technical aspect, we will ensure robustness through regular code reviews and smart contract audits.

Please provide a detailed breakdown of your project’s milestones and each of the main tasks or activities to reach the milestone plus the expected timeline for the delivery.

Milestone 1: Project Initiation and Planning (Month 1)

• Definition of project scope, objectives, and key stakeholders.
• Creation of the project plan, outlining key tasks, timelines, and resources required.

Milestone 2: DAO Design and Development (Months 1-2)

• Technical design of the DAO, including smart contract architecture for governance and transaction facilitation.
• Development of DAO based on the technical design.

Milestone 3: Interface Development (Months 2-3)

• Designing a user-friendly interface for the car sharing platform MVP.
• Developing mobile and web applications based on design specifications.

Milestone 4: Prototype Testing and Refinement (Month 4)

• Internal testing of the DAO and interface to identify potential issues and areas for improvement.
• Refining the solution based on the feedback and testing results.

Milestone 5: Beta Launch and User Onboarding (Months 4-5)

• Launching the platform in a controlled environment for beta testing.
• Onboarding initial users, collecting feedback, and refining the platform based on user experiences.

Milestone 6: Full Launch and Promotion (Month 6)

• Official launch of the platform MVP to the public.
• Promotion and marketing to attract more users.
• Continuous collection of user feedback for ongoing improvement beyond the project timeline.

Please describe the deliverables, outputs and intended outcomes of each milestone.

Milestone 1: Project Initiation and Planning

• Deliverables: Project plan including project scope, objectives, tasks, timelines, and key stakeholders.
• Intended Outcome: A clear roadmap for the project execution and management, ensuring all stakeholders understand their roles and responsibilities.

Milestone 2: DAO Design and Development

• Deliverables: Technical design document detailing the DAO structure and smart contracts, and the developed DAO itself.
• Intended Outcome: A functioning DAO on the Cardano blockchain that aligns with the project's vision of a decentralized car-sharing platform.

Milestone 3: Interface Development

• Deliverables: UI/UX design layouts and a fully functional user interface for web and mobile applications.
• Intended Outcome: A user-friendly platform where users can easily list or find cars for sharing, enhancing the user experience and promoting platform adoption.

Milestone 4: Prototype Testing and Refinement

• Deliverables: Detailed testing reports outlining identified issues and subsequent refinements.
• Intended Outcome: An improved DAO and user interface that have been adjusted based on initial testing feedback to better meet user needs.

Milestone 5: Beta Launch and User Onboarding

• Deliverables: A functional beta version of the car-sharing platform, initial user feedback reports.
• Intended Outcome: An active initial user base providing real-world feedback to help refine the platform, contributing to the creation of a more polished and user-friendly car-sharing service.

Milestone 6: Full Launch and Promotion

• Deliverables: Officially launched car-sharing platform, marketing materials, and user feedback collection system.
• Intended Outcome: A widely recognized and utilized platform, leveraging the power of decentralization to enhance car-sharing experiences.

Please provide a detailed budget breakdown of the proposed work and resources.

Milestone 1: Project Initiation and Planning: 100,000 ADA

• Project Management

Milestone 2: DAO Design and Development: 250,000 ADA

• Smart Contract Development

Milestone 3: Interface Development: 250,000 ADA

• UI/UX Design Software and Resources
• Web and Mobile Application Development

Milestone 4: Prototype Testing and Refinement: 100,000 ADA

• Testing and quality assurance

Milestone 5: Beta Launch and User Onboarding: 100,000 ADA

• Server and Infrastructure
• User Feedback Collection and Analysis

Milestone 6: Full Launch and Promotion: 100,000 ADA

• Marketing and Promotion Expenses
• Community Engagement Activities

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

• Oussama Benmahmoud: As CEO and Co-Founder of PeakSoft GmbH, Oussama is a Certified PMP, ITIL, Professional Scrum Master, and Product Owner, and holds an ISTQB Advanced Level Certification. His key roles include Project Management, Software Quality Assurance, and Blockchain Development. His extensive Connected Car Projects experience and achievements as a Plutus Pioneer and Atala PRISM Pioneer make him a valuable asset to the team. LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oussama-benmahmoud-43693926/
• 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 Atala PRISM Pioneer. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abderrahim-issaoui-b3149227/
• Habib Mokni: Habib is our Software Engineer and Frontend Developer. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/habibmokni/
• Mohammed Abdelali: Mohammed is an Electronic and Communication Engineer, focusing on Software Quality Assurance. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammed-abdelali-290b7b101/
• Neyla Issaoui: Neyla is part of the Project Management Office, handling Administration, Accounting, and Coordination tasks. LinkedIn
• Ramla Mahjoub: Ramla works in Software Quality Assurance and some project coordination duties, and she is also ISTQB certified. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramla-mahjoub-25a1843b/

Our team roles and responsibilities for the project are:

1. Project Management - Oussama Benmahmoud (Certified PMP, ITIL, Professional Scrum Master, Product Owner)
2. Blockchain Development - Abderrahim Issaoui, Oussama Benmahmoud (Both Plutus Pioneers)
3. Frontend Development - Abderrahim Issaoui (Lead), Habib Mokni
4. Mobility Integration - Mohammed Abdelali, Oussama Benmahmoud
5. Software Quality Assurance - Mohammed Abdelali, Oussama Benmahmoud, Ramla Mahjoub (All three are ISTQB certified, Oussama at Advanced Level)
6. Administration, Accounting, and Coordination Tasks - Neyla Issaoui, Ramla Mahjoub

The team is prepared to engage external consultants if necessary, as we are always open to bringing in more expertise. We remain committed to active engagement with the Cardano community and technical-group channels and understand the expectations of proof of life verifications and public proposal availability. Our team's combined skills and experience make us well-suited to execute this project and contribute significantly to the Cardano ecosystem.

How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

Our project's cost offers significant value for money for the Cardano ecosystem due to our team's expertise, our operational efficiency, and our strategic approach to resource utilization.

Our team comprises highly skilled professionals, with extensive experience in large-scale application development, software quality, and connected car projects. This high caliber of expertise might appear to increase the cost, but it also ensures that we deliver high-quality solutions that are designed to stand the test of time, resulting in long-term savings for the ecosystem.

In terms of operational efficiency, we, as PeakSoft GmbH, a Germany-based consulting company, have years of experience working with prominent clients and managing sizable projects. This experience enables us to streamline our operations, reducing overheads and eliminating unnecessary costs.

Furthermore, as a company, we have full-time employees dedicated to this project, ensuring a high degree of accountability, ownership, and commitment, which in turn leads to better cost management and enhanced output. This commitment also extends to the possibility of deploying external consultants, if necessary, to enhance our capabilities without significantly affecting our cost structure.

The budget for this project has been determined considering the average wages for software professionals in Germany, which is one of the higher wage countries in Europe, reflecting the high level of expertise and quality assurance that we bring to this project. However, we're confident that our team's unique combination of skills and experience in both Web2 and Web3 technologies offers exceptional value for the Cardano ecosystem.

Ultimately, our aim is to provide the Cardano community with solutions that not only solve existing problems but also open up new opportunities. By investing in our project, the community is investing in the potential for future growth and innovation within the ecosystem, making it a value-for-money proposition.