Please describe your proposed solution.

We will build a Milkomeda smart contract indexing service. Our solution stands out due to its unique combination of efficient indexing of the Milkomeda sidechain, reduced latency for Cardano applications, and bridging the gap between decentralized networks and their users.

Beneficiaries of our solution include both developers and end users within the Cardano ecosystem. Developers will benefit from improved data retrieval and indexing capabilities, allowing them to build more responsive and scalable applications. End users will experience faster and more reliable interactions with Cardano-based apps, enhancing their overall user experience.

This solution is crucial for Cardano as it addresses a key challenge in the ecosystem, namely the need for efficient data retrieval and reduced latency. By providing critical infrastructure and indexing services, we enable the seamless integration of decentralized networks with their users. This integration fosters broader adoption of Cardano by enhancing usability, attracting developers, and promoting a thriving ecosystem.

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 of efficient data retrieval, reduced latency, and bridging the gap between decentralized networks and their users in the Cardano ecosystem. By building an indexing system of the Milkomeda sidechain, we bring several benefits to the Cardano ecosystem:

Enhanced User Experience: Our solution significantly reduces latency for Cardano applications, ensuring faster and more responsive user interactions. This improved user experience attracts more users to the ecosystem and encourages increased usage and engagement.

Increased Developer Productivity: By providing efficient data retrieval and indexing capabilities, our solution empowers developers to build applications on Cardano more effectively. Developers can focus on creating innovative features and functionalities without worrying about the complexities of data management, leading to increased developer productivity.

Broader Adoption: Improved usability and reduced latency make Cardano more attractive to users and developers. This, in turn, drives broader adoption of the Cardano ecosystem. As more applications and users join the ecosystem, it strengthens Cardano's position as a leading blockchain platform.

Thriving Ecosystem: Our solution contributes to the growth and vibrancy of the Cardano ecosystem. By bridging the gap between decentralized networks and their users, it fosters collaboration, innovation, and the development of a robust ecosystem of applications, services, and partnerships.

Quantifying the impact of our project, we anticipate a significant increase in user adoption and engagement within a reasonable timeframe after project completion. Our goal is to onboard a minimum of 10,000 users and facilitate a substantial number of daily transactions on the indexed contracts within six months of deployment. These metrics will serve as indicators of the project's success in driving usage, attracting users, and adding value to the Cardano ecosystem.

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

To measure the success of our project, we will utilize a combination of quantitative and qualitative metrics that reflect the benefits our solution brings to the Cardano ecosystem. These metrics include:

User Adoption: We will track the number of new users onboarded to the indexing service and the growth rate of active users over time. This metric demonstrates the level of interest and adoption of our solution within the Cardano community.

Transaction Volume: We will measure the number of transactions processed on the indexed contracts to gauge the level of activity and usage of the system. Increasing transaction volume indicates growing engagement and productivity within the ecosystem.

User Feedback and Satisfaction: We will actively collect feedback from users through surveys, interviews, and community forums to understand their opinions, experiences, and satisfaction with the solution. This qualitative measure provides valuable insights into user perceptions and helps drive continuous improvement.

Developer Engagement: We will monitor the engagement of developers within the Cardano ecosystem, such as the number of developers integrating our indexing system into their applications or contributing to its development. Increased developer engagement indicates the value and productivity gains our solution brings to the developer community.

Partnerships and Integrations: We will track the number of partnerships formed and integrations established with other projects, platforms, or services within the Cardano ecosystem. This metric reflects the collaborative potential and growth of the ecosystem as a result of our solution.

In the short term, our project will immediately impact Cardano's productivity by reducing latency, improving user experience, and empowering developers to build applications more efficiently. These outcomes will attract more users and developers to the ecosystem, creating a positive feedback loop of increased activity and engagement.

In the long term, our solution's positive impact on productivity, usability, and bridging decentralized networks with their users will contribute to Cardano's sustained growth. By enabling efficient data retrieval, our solution fosters innovation, expands the range of applications, and attracts a wider user base. This, in turn, drives the ecosystem's expansion, solidifies Cardano's position as a leading blockchain platform, and enhances its long-term sustainability.

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

Documentation and Technical Resources: We will create comprehensive documentation, technical guides, and tutorials that detail the implementation, architecture, and usage of our indexing system of the Milkomeda sidechain. These resources will be made available on our project website, GitHub repository, and relevant community forums to ensure easy access for developers, researchers, and enthusiasts.

Open Source Code Repository: While our backend code may not be open source, we will establish a public code repository containing relevant components, libraries, and tools that can facilitate integrations and collaborations. Developers will be able to leverage and build upon these resources to enhance their own projects and contribute to the broader ecosystem.

Developer Community Engagement: We will actively engage with the Cardano developer community through forums, social media channels, and developer meetups. We will share updates, insights, and lessons learned from our project, encouraging discussion, feedback, and collaboration among developers. This community-driven approach will enable us to reach a wide audience and facilitate knowledge exchange.

Collaboration and Partnerships: We will actively seek partnerships and collaborations with other projects, startups, and research institutions. By sharing our project's outputs and opportunities, we can explore synergies, cross-pollinate ideas, and collectively advance the Cardano ecosystem. Collaborations may include joint research efforts, shared resources, or integrations with complementary solutions.

Research and Development Contributions: We will utilize the results generated from our project as a foundation for further research and development activities. The insights gained, data collected, and user feedback will inform our future work, allowing us to refine our solution, explore new features, and contribute to the continuous evolution of the Cardano ecosystem.

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

Expertise and Experience: Our team comprises experienced blockchain developers with in-depth knowledge of Cardano, Ethereum, and decentralized technologies. We have a proven track record of successfully delivering complex projects, including smart contract development, backend infrastructure, and data management systems. Our expertise ensures that we have a deep understanding of the technical requirements and challenges associated with building an efficient indexing system of the Milkomeda sidechain.

Technical Proficiency: We have a strong command of relevant programming languages, tools, and frameworks such as Solidity, TypeScript, Go, and associated development environments. This proficiency enables us to design and implement robust, secure, and scalable solutions.

Commitment to Best Practices: We adhere to industry best practices and coding standards, ensuring code quality, security, and reliability. Our rigorous testing procedures, including unit testing, integration testing, and security audits, help identify and address potential vulnerabilities and ensure the stability of our deliverables.

Financial Management: We understand the importance of proper fund management and have implemented robust processes and protocols to ensure the responsible handling of funds. We will establish dedicated accounts for project-related expenses and maintain detailed financial records.

Governance and Accountability: We value transparency and accountability throughout the project lifecycle. We will provide regular progress updates, maintain open communication channels with the challenge team, and address concerns promptly. Our commitment to sound project management practices ensures that we deliver on time and within the allocated budget.

Risk Management: We actively identify and mitigate risks associated with the project, ensuring that we have contingency plans in place to address potential challenges. We follow a systematic approach to risk assessment and management, proactively addressing any issues that may arise during the project's execution.

Contracts and Legal Compliance: We understand the importance of contracts and legal compliance in maintaining trust and accountability. We will establish clear contractual agreements with all parties involved, outlining the scope, deliverables, timelines, and financial obligations. Our commitment to legal compliance ensures that we operate within the boundaries of applicable laws and regulations.

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

Develop an efficient indexing system of the Milkomeda sidechain: Our goal is to build a robust and scalable indexing system that can effectively retrieve and serve contract data on the Milkomeda sidechain. This will involve implementing advanced indexing algorithms, optimizing data retrieval mechanisms, and ensuring seamless integration with the Cardano ecosystem.

Validation: We will validate the feasibility of our approach by conducting extensive testing and benchmarking to measure the performance, scalability, and efficiency of the indexing system. Real-world usage scenarios and stress testing will be employed to ensure that the system can handle increased demand and maintain optimal performance.

Reduce latency and improve data retrieval: We aim to significantly reduce the latency associated with data retrieval from Cardano smart contracts. By implementing efficient indexing and caching mechanisms, we will enhance the speed and responsiveness of contract data retrieval, providing a seamless user experience for decentralized applications.

Validation: We will measure and compare the latency of data retrieval before and after the implementation of our indexing system. Real-world usage scenarios will be simulated to assess the system's performance under various loads and validate that the intended reduction in latency has been achieved.

Bridge decentralized networks with their users: Our objective is to establish a critical infrastructure layer that connects decentralized networks, such as Cardano, with their users. By providing efficient data indexing and retrieval services, we will facilitate smoother interaction and adoption of decentralized applications by users.

Validation: We will track the adoption and usage of our indexing system by users, gather feedback, and conduct surveys to gauge their experience and satisfaction. User feedback, adoption rates, and testimonials will be used to assess the successful bridging of decentralized networks with their users.

Enable broader application development and innovation: Our project aims to empower developers by providing them with efficient tools and infrastructure for contract data indexing. We seek to foster innovation, encourage new application development, and expand the range of use cases within the Cardano ecosystem.

Validation: We will monitor the growth of applications integrating our indexing system, measure the increase in developer engagement, and track the number of new use cases enabled by our solution. Developer feedback, engagement metrics, and the number of successful integrations will serve as validation indicators.

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: System Architecture and Design

• Activities:
• Design the system architecture for efficient data retrieval and indexing
• Define the data structures and algorithms for indexing and caching
• Installation and setup of physical infrastructure
• Timeline: 2 months
• Success Criteria:
• Completion of the indexing system architecture design document
• Agreement and approval from the development team on the proposed design
• Projected Cost: $30,000

Milestone 2: Indexing System Implementation

• Activities:
• Develop the backend infrastructure for data retrieval and caching
• Implement the indexing algorithms and data structures
• Integrate the indexing system with the Milkomeda sidechain
• Timeline: 2 months
• Success Criteria:
• Functional and scalable indexing system implemented and integrated with Milkomeda
• Basic indexing and retrieval functionalities validated through testing
• Projected Cost: $120,000

Milestone 3: Performance Optimization and Testing

• Activities:
• Conduct comprehensive performance testing and optimization of the indexing system
• Identify and resolve bottlenecks and scalability issues
• Conduct stress testing to ensure the system can handle increased demand
• Timeline: 2 months
• Success Criteria:
• Optimized indexing system with improved performance and reduced latency
• Successful completion of stress testing with the system handling high loads effectively
• Projected Cost: $24,000

Milestone 4: User Interface Development

• Activities:
• Design and develop a user-friendly interface for users
• Implement features for querying, filtering, and retrieving contract data
• Ensure seamless integration with Cardano wallets and applications
• Timeline: 2 months
• Success Criteria:
• User interface implemented and integrated with the indexing system
• User-friendly functionalities for data retrieval and interaction with contracts validated
• Projected Cost: $60,000

Milestone 5: Testing and Deployment

• Activities:
• Conduct comprehensive testing of the indexing system and user interface
• Address any bugs or issues identified during testing

-Deploy cloud servers for global CDN

• Timeline: 2 months
• Success Criteria:
• Stable and tested system ready for deployment
• All identified bugs and issues resolved
• Projected Cost: $36,000

Milestone 6: Documentation, Launch, and Community Engagement

• Activities:
• Prepare comprehensive documentation and technical guides for the indexing system
• Launch the indexing system and make it accessible to users within the Cardano ecosystem
• Engage with the community, gather feedback, and address user inquiries
• Timeline: 2 months
• Success Criteria:
• Comprehensive documentation available for users and developers
• Successful launch of the indexing system with positive user feedback
• Projected Cost: $27,000

Overall Project Management Approach:

We will follow an agile project management approach, utilizing project management tools and methodologies to ensure effective coordination, communication, and progress tracking. Regular meetings will be conducted to discuss project updates, address any challenges, and ensure alignment with the project goals. We will establish clear roles and responsibilities, set up task management systems, and employ version control systems for efficient collaboration among team members. Project milestones and progress will be regularly monitored and evaluated to ensure timely delivery and adherence to project objectives.

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

Milestone 1: System Architecture and Design

• Deliverables:
• System architecture design document outlining the overall structure and components of the indexing system
• Outputs:
• Detailed system architecture design that serves as a blueprint for the implementation phase
• Intended Outcome:
• Clear understanding of the indexing system's architecture and design among the development team
• Alignment on the technical approach and implementation plan

Measurement:

• Completion and approval of the system architecture design document by the development team

Milestone 2: Indexing System Implementation

• Deliverables:
• Backend code and infrastructure for data retrieval and caching of smart contracts on Milkomeda
• Outputs:
• Functional indexing system capable of retrieving and serving contract data efficiently
• Intended Outcome:
• Ability to retrieve contract data on Milkomeda in a timely manner, reducing latency for Cardano applications

Measurement:

• Validation of basic indexing and retrieval functionalities through testing

Milestone 3: Performance Optimization and Testing

• Deliverables:
• Optimized indexing system with improved performance and reduced latency
• Test reports documenting the performance benchmarks and optimization measures undertaken
• Outputs:
• Performance-optimized indexing system capable of handling increased demand and maintaining responsiveness
• Intended Outcome:
• Enhanced user experience with faster data retrieval and improved system efficiency
• Identification and resolution of bottlenecks and scalability issues

Measurement:

• Performance testing results showing improved system performance and reduced latency
• Successful completion of stress testing with the system handling high loads effectively

Milestone 4: User Interface Development

• Deliverables:
• User interface design and implementation, including the frontend code and interactive elements
• Features for querying, filtering, and retrieving contract data within the user interface
• Outputs:
• User-friendly interface for users to interact with the indexing system and retrieve contract data
• Intended Outcome:
• Seamless user experience in querying and retrieving contract data
• Integration of the user interface with Cardano wallets and applications for easy accessibility

Measurement:

• Completion and successful integration of the user interface with the indexing system
• Validation of user-friendly functionalities through user testing and feedback

Milestone 5: Testing and Deployment

• Deliverables:
• Stable and tested indexing system ready for deployment
• Bug reports and issue resolution documentation
• Outputs:
• Deployable indexing system with resolved bugs and issues
• Deployed cloud servers as global content delivery network
• Intended Outcome:
• System readiness for global production deployment
• Addressing any identified bugs or issues to ensure system stability

Measurement:

• Successful completion of testing phase with all identified bugs and issues resolved
• Documentation of bug reports and their resolutions

Milestone 6: Documentation, Launch, and Community Engagement

• Deliverables:
• Comprehensive documentation, technical guides, and tutorials for users
• Successful launch of the indexing system and availability to users within the Cardano ecosystem
• Outputs:
• Documentation and resources enabling users and developers to understand and utilize the indexing system
• Intended Outcome:
• Increased user adoption and engagement within the Cardano ecosystem
• Positive user feedback and engagement with the indexing system

Measurement:

• Availability of comprehensive documentation and technical guides for users and developers
• User feedback, adoption rates, and engagement metrics indicating successful launch and positive user experience

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

Milestone 1: System Architecture and Design

• Development and implementation: ($20,000)
• Allocation for the development and implementation of the system architecture and design, including research, analysis, and technical specifications.
• Physical infrastructure costs ($10,000)

Milestone 2: Indexing System Implementation

• Development and implementation: ($120,000)
• Allocation for the development and implementation of the indexing system, including coding, integration with the Milkomeda sidechain, and core functionality implementation.

Milestone 3: Performance Optimization and Testing

• Development and implementation: ($24,000)
• Allocation for further development and implementation to optimize system performance and ensure efficient data retrieval and indexing.

Milestone 4: User Interface Development

• Development and implementation: ($60,000)
• Allocation for the development and implementation of the user interface, including frontend design, interactive elements, and integration with the indexing system.

Milestone 5: Testing and Deployment

• Development and implementation: ($24,000)
• Allocation for final testing, bug fixing, and ensuring the stability of the indexing system before deployment.
• Cloud computing costs for content delivery network: ($12,000)
• Allocation for cloud deployment of geolocated nodes comprising our global CDN.

Milestone 6: Documentation, Launch, and Community Engagement

• Documentation and support: ($18,000)
• Allocation for the development of comprehensive technical documentation, user guides, and support materials.
• Community engagement and updates: ($9,000)
• Allocation for community engagement activities and regular reporting to keep the community and Catalyst informed about the progress and developments of the indexing system.

Total Budget Requested: 1,023,746 ADA ($297,000)

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

Team: Kodex Data Systems

Brittany Smith: Roles include project manager, network engineering, network operations and monitoring, community engagement, and documentation. Brittany has been a member of the Cardano community since 2018. She is a self taught blockchain developer and a network operations professional. She has project management and community management experience within the Cardano ecosystem.

Oldcryptogeek: Roles include team leader, web3 developer, full stack/front end developer, network administrator, developer operations, and documentation. Oldcrytogeek has been a member of the Cardano community since 2017 and is a senior blockchain developer.

Wizardsorb: Roles include lead web3 developer and UI integration. Wizardsorb has been indexing EVM blockchains since 2017 and is an expert software developer. Previous work includes EVM governance contracts deployed on Milkomeda https://github.com/KodexData/collective-governance

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

Expertise and Experience: The cost accounts for the high level of expertise and experience possessed by our project team members. Their knowledge of blockchain development, specifically in the Cardano ecosystem, ensures the delivery of a high-quality and efficient indexing system.

Deliverables and Outcomes: The project cost aligns with the comprehensive set of deliverables and intended outcomes outlined in the proposal. The budget covers the development of a robust indexing system, optimization measures, user interface implementation, thorough testing, and extensive documentation. These deliverables contribute to enhancing the user experience, improving data retrieval efficiency, and fostering broader application development within the Cardano ecosystem.

Competitive Market Rates: The cost estimation considers industry standards and market rates for senior web3 developers, network design and administration, and project management. It reflects the time and effort required to complete the project milestones, ensuring that the team members are compensated appropriately for their expertise and the value they bring to the project.

Proportional to Project Complexity: The cost is proportional to the complexity of the project, including the technical requirements, integration challenges, and performance optimization needs. The allocation of funds takes into account the effort required for each milestone, resource utilization, and the successful achievement of project goals.

Value of Long-Term Benefits: The project cost must be viewed in the context of the long-term benefits it brings to the Cardano ecosystem. By reducing latency, bridging decentralized networks with their users, and fostering innovation, the project contributes to the growth and expansion of Cardano. The value derived from improved user experiences, increased adoption, and the development of new use cases justifies the investment in the project.

To determine the project costs, we have considered industry benchmarks, professional rates, and the scope of work involved in each milestone. While the costs may seem high, they are justified by the expertise and experience of the team members, the complexity of the project, and the potential long-term impact on the Cardano ecosystem.

It's important to note that the value for money is not solely based on the cost, but also on the return on investment in terms of the project's outcomes and contributions to the Cardano ecosystem. The proposed budget ensures that the project is executed with the highest quality standards, delivering tangible value and positive impact to the ecosystem as a whole.