icDesk, the Decentralized Workspace

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Authors: @sabino @mattia @laura

Abstract
In a world dominated by centralized productivity suites that expose users to potential vulnerabilities, icDesk will emerge as a decentralized alternative built 100% on the Internet Computer (IC) blockchain, offering a secure, user-centric substitute to traditional workspaces. The platform will be comprised of four core applications—icFiles, icPapers, icCalc, and icCanvas—which together enable users to create, store and manage files within a fully decentralized environment. Through a single login with Internet Identity, icDesk will deliver a seamless and intuitive experience.

A token-based model will support a sustainable ecosystem that grows with user demand and community involvement. To maintain token value, icDesk will implement a deflationary mechanism alongside a controlled minting process to fund development and reward active contributors. A balanced token distribution plan, complete with vesting schedules, will ensure long-term commitment to the platform’s success.

icDesk will embrace an open-core strategy that invites community contributions by making essential components open-source, while proprietary elements will remain secure to protect the platform’s integrity. The icDesk Foundation will oversee funding, community engagement, and platform governance, encouraging a collaborative ecosystem focused on user needs and continuous innovation.

The development roadmap includes a phased approach to deploying icDesk’s suite of applications. Beginning with the beta launch of icFiles, we will progress through icPapers, icCalc, and icCanvas, enhancing the functionality and integration of the suite. Future iterations will focus on platform improvements, including AI and advanced security measures, as well as collaborative features.

icDesk aims to be positioned to transform the digital landscape by empowering users with decentralized tools that provide greater control over data and privacy. Through decentralized governance and an open-source commitment, icDesk will foster an environment of innovation and transparency, setting the stage for a future where individuals and organizations can operate more securely and autonomously.

We invite stakeholders and developers to join us in building this decentralized productivity ecosystem.

Resources:
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Full whitepaper
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I personally think this is a great project and I really look forward to see it start and grow.
Something I noticed is not on the Whitepaper that I think could help increase interest and adoption also outside the “ICP” user base (but maybe these are already taken in consideration and not been written down, in which case I apologize for wasting your time):

ANDROID and IOS app: most people on ICP are frustrated they can’t download apps from stores, especially the “average Joe” that struggles to install the app into the phone via browser

Having different user levels
for example
free user = basic limited functions and small cloud space
Basic = extra functions and bigger cloud space
Pro = Full suite and options and bigger cloud space
(you’ll be fighting with Google and Microsoft, so it needs to give something free that is not like extra small and not worth it)

Allowing payment in FIAT that turns into $ICDESK so common user will have that kind of “credit” to use “PRO” features or templates. This should contemplate an internal wallet that will turn fiat into $icdesk and allows sending and receiving $icdesk (maybe also allow $ICP to swap between both) I know this is a tricky part but could bring users into the app and system (sort of what happens with $SWEAT) Also a monthly or yearly subscription would be nice.

Compatibility with other files from other Office suites like Google and Microsoft and being able to export in PDF the documents created.

The main thing is Decentralisation and Safety… like I think the narrative that should be pushed a lot and the main focus of the project should be “no one can see and open your documents if not you” and use Internet Identity to access into the suite. This will increase both the IC identities and users and also make it safer for the user that no one can access. Most private and secure office suite availble.

Also will be interesting to see implementation with AI, can’t wait!

Good job, we really needed something like this on the IC ecosystem!

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Curious if you have any thoughts on general architecture or more technical details around this. Like on the spectrum of the single canister to 1 user per canister, where would this be ideally.

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