A Smartup is a unique sociotechnical organism that combines democratic governance with military-precision execution. This hybrid design solves a fundamental challenge: how to maintain collective ownership while actually getting things done.
+If you could slice a Smartup open, you’d see something that looks more like a living ecosystem than a traditional corporate pyramid. Instead of strict hierarchy and top-down control, power and responsibility are distributed through a holacratic structure: nested groups, each supporting the whole.
“Holacracy is a new way of structuring and running your organization that replaces the conventional management hierarchy. Instead of top-down, power is distributed throughout, giving individuals and teams more freedom to self-manage, while staying aligned to the organization’s purpose.”
- 2025-07-16
+ 2025-07-20
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-{"config":{"lang":["en"],"separator":"[\\s\\-]+","pipeline":["stopWordFilter"]},"docs":[{"location":"","title":"The System Change Marketplace","text":"BING! YOU ARRIVED AT 0_TIMELINE Here we don\u2019t accept our reality but seek to alter it.
The clock is ticking. The tools we rely on are not helping us progress on the UN Sutainable Development Goals . We need a new toolset.
0_timeline is the place where we can forge that new toolset. Right now, we are building the first one..
"},{"location":"#what-is-0_timeline","title":"What is 0_timeline? A living public experiment. Everything happens here: ideas, decisions, roles, challenges, breakthroughs.
We\u2019re building technology like a scientific experiment: - Transparent - Community-owned - Measured and documented
","text":""},{"location":"#the-four-elements-of-our-atom","title":"\ud83e\uddec The Four Elements of Our Atom 0_timeline The space where Smartups are designed, tested, and shared\u2014step by step. Smartup A new way to build technology: Transparent. Community-driven. Experimental. Smartup Zero Our first live experiment. Testing the Smartup model\u2014failures and successes both matter. ONLIFE The technology we\u2019re building: A decentralized emergency network for European citizen resilience.","text":""},{"location":"#our-alignment-with-the-un-sdgs","title":"\ud83c\udf0d Our Alignment with the UN SDGs We\u2019re not just building tech\u2014we\u2019re contributing to global goals.
","text":""},{"location":"#radical-transparency","title":"Radical Transparency We believe the next generation of digital infrastructure must be open:
Open decisions Open failures Open success tracking Open governance ","text":""},{"location":"#why-are-we-doing-this","title":"Why are we doing this? Because the system isn\u2019t working. We need new methods to create\u2014and govern\u2014the technology that shapes our world.
Smartup Zero is our experiment to test that belief. In the open. For everyone to see.
","text":""},{"location":"#join-the-experiment","title":"Join the Experiment","text":""},{"location":"#ready-to-contribute","title":"Ready to Contribute? Join the Project
Become a Smartup Zero owner
Join via Open Collective
Start Discussing
Connect with the community
Enter Matrix Space
Start Building
Pick up your first task
Browse Open Tasks
","text":""},{"location":"style-guide/","title":"\ud83d\udcd6 0_timeline Content Style Guide","text":"Purpose
This guide ensures consistent content across the 0_timeline website. All contributors should reference this when creating or editing content. Our goal is to make complex ideas accessible while maintaining the experimental, transparent spirit of Smartup Zero.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#visual-language","title":"\ud83c\udfa8 Visual Language","text":""},{"location":"style-guide/#icon-dictionary","title":"Icon Dictionary","text":"Always use these icons for consistency across all pages:
Concept Icon Code Usage Preview Organizational Structure General Forum :material-forum: Public discussions, voting, governance Workplace :material-briefcase: Worker-only spaces and content Teams :material-account-group: Team-related content Roles :material-card-account-details: Role definitions and assignments Objectives :material-target: Project goals and missions Tasks :material-checkbox-marked-circle: Individual work items Project Specifics ONLIFE :material-alert-decagram: Emergency network references Smartup Model :material-atom: Core model concepts Experiment :material-flask: Scientific method references Actions & States Vote :material-vote: Governance decisions Join :material-account-plus: Recruitment/onboarding Build :material-hammer: Development work Success :material-check-circle: Completed/positive items Warning :material-alert: Important notices Info :material-information: Explanations Financial Treasury :material-currency-eur: Money/funding matters Credits :material-coin: Smartup Credits (SC) Technical Code :material-code-tags: Development/repos Infrastructure :material-server: Technical stack Communication :material-chat: Matrix/Element"},{"location":"style-guide/#color-philosophy","title":"Color Philosophy","text":" Primary (Amber) \ud83d\udfe8: Energy, innovation, warmth - use for main CTAs and highlights Accent (Lime) \ud83d\udfe9: Growth, freshness, progress - use for success states and secondary actions Semantic Colors: Use mkdocs-material's built-in admonition colors for meaning "},{"location":"style-guide/#content-patterns","title":"\ud83d\udcd0 Content Patterns","text":""},{"location":"style-guide/#page-headers","title":"Page Headers","text":"Every page should start with a clear hierarchy.
Example Code:
###:material-forum: Our General Forum\n\n!!! info \"What is this?\"\n The public square for all Smartup Zero owners where governance happens.\n\n### Purpose\n\nThis is where we make collective decisions that shape our project's future.\nRenders as:
"},{"location":"style-guide/#our-general-forum","title":"Our General Forum","text":"What is this?
The public square for all Smartup Zero owners where governance happens.
Purpose
This is where we make collective decisions that shape our project's future.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#status-indicators","title":"Status Indicators","text":"For showing project or phase status.
Example Code:
<div class=\"grid cards\" markdown>\n\n- :material-check-circle:{ .lg .middle } **Infrastructure**\n\n ---\n\n Core services deployed and operational\n\n [:octicons-arrow-right-24: View details](#)\n\n- :material-progress-clock:{ .lg .middle } **ONLIFE Development**\n\n ---\n\n Building the MVP emergency network\n\n [:octicons-arrow-right-24: Track progress](#)\n\n- :material-calendar-clock:{ .lg .middle } **First Funding**\n\n ---\n\n Crowdfunding campaign preparation\n\n [:octicons-arrow-right-24: See timeline](#)\n\n</div>\nRenders as:
Infrastructure
Core services deployed and operational
View details
ONLIFE Development
Building the MVP emergency network
Track progress
First Funding
Crowdfunding campaign preparation
See timeline
"},{"location":"style-guide/#team-cards","title":"Team Cards","text":"Standard format for presenting teams.
Example Code:
**:material-account-group: Development Team**\n\n<aside class=\"md-typeset\" markdown>\n!!! tip inline end \"Quick Links\"\n :material-git: [Team Repos](https://smartup-zero-forgejo.fly.dev/smartup-zero/dev-team) \n :material-chat: [Team Room](#3_dev-team) \n :material-clipboard-list: [Open Tasks](#)\n</aside>\n\n**Captain:** [@alice](https://matrix.to/#/@alice:matrix.org) \n**Members:** 5 active contributors \n**Formed:** January 2025 \n\n**Mission:** Build the ONLIFE emergency communication protocol and apps.\n\n**Current Objectives:**\n- Complete Android MVP by Feb 28\n- Implement mesh networking core\nRenders as:
Development Team
Quick Links
Team Repos Team Room Open Tasks
Captain: @alice Members: 5 active contributors Formed: January 2025
Mission: Build the ONLIFE emergency communication protocol and apps.
Current Objectives: - Complete Android MVP by Feb 28 - Implement mesh networking core
"},{"location":"style-guide/#phase-documentation","title":"Phase Documentation","text":"For describing project phases.
Example Code:
**:material-numeric-0-circle: Phase 0: Micro-Pilot**\n\n<aside class=\"md-typeset\" markdown>\n!!! info inline end \"Phase Status\"\n **Status:** Active \n **Duration:** 30 days \n **Started:** Jan 1, 2025 \n **Target:** Jan 31, 2025\n</aside>\n\n**Goals for This Phase**\n\n- [x] Deploy core infrastructure\n- [ ] Onboard 15-20 contributors\n- [ ] Complete one full work cycle\n\n**Key Deliverables**\n\n| Deliverable | Description | Status |\n|-------------|-------------|---------|\n| Tech Stack | Forgejo + Matrix deployed | :material-check: Done |\n| Engelbot | Automation bot v0.1 | :material-progress-wrench: In Progress |\n| First Task | Test the SC system | :material-calendar: Planned |\nRenders as:
Phase 0: Micro-Pilot
Phase Status
Status: Active Duration: 30 days Started: Jan 1, 2025 Target: Jan 31, 2025
Goals for This Phase
[x] Deploy core infrastructure [ ] Onboard 15-20 contributors [ ] Complete one full work cycle Key Deliverables
Deliverable Description Status Tech Stack Forgejo + Matrix deployed Done Engelbot Automation bot v0.1 In Progress First Task Test the SC system Planned"},{"location":"style-guide/#call-to-action-sections","title":"Call-to-Action Sections","text":"For encouraging participation.
Example Code:
**:material-rocket-launch: Ready to Contribute?**\n\n<div class=\"grid\" markdown>\n\n:material-account-plus:{ .lg }\n\n**Join the Project**\n\nBecome a Smartup Zero owner\n\n[Join via Open Collective :material-open-in-new:](https://opencollective.com/smartup-zero){ .md-button }\n\n:material-chat:{ .lg }\n\n**Start Discussing**\n\nConnect with the community\n\n[Enter Matrix Space :material-open-in-new:](#){ .md-button }\n\n:material-hammer:{ .lg }\n\n**Start Building**\n\nPick up your first task\n\n[Browse Open Tasks :material-open-in-new:](#){ .md-button }\n\n</div>\nRenders as:
Ready to Contribute?
Join the Project
Become a Smartup Zero owner
Join via Open Collective
Start Discussing
Connect with the community
Enter Matrix Space
Start Building
Pick up your first task
Browse Open Tasks
"},{"location":"style-guide/#writing-guidelines","title":"\ud83d\udcdd Writing Guidelines","text":""},{"location":"style-guide/#voice-tone","title":"Voice & Tone","text":" Inclusive: Always \"we\" not \"I\" or \"they\" Experimental: Acknowledge we're learning (\"we believe\", \"our hypothesis\") Transparent: Share both successes and challenges Accessible: Explain technical terms on first use "},{"location":"style-guide/#structure-guidelines","title":"Structure Guidelines","text":" Start with Why: Lead with purpose/problem before solution Show, Don't Just Tell: Use examples and diagrams Progressive Disclosure: Overview first, details in expandable sections Example Code:
** The Smartup Credit System\n\n**Why it exists:** We need a fair way to track and reward contributions before cash arrives.\n\n??? info \"How it works (Technical Details)\"\n When a contributor completes a task, the Team Captain approves it and \n Smartup Credits are minted to the ledger. These credits represent a \n future claim on treasury funds at a 1 SC = 1 EUR rate.\nRenders as:
The Smartup Credit System
Why it exists: We need a fair way to track and reward contributions before cash arrives.
How it works (Technical Details) When a contributor completes a task, the Team Captain approves it and Smartup Credits are minted to the ledger. These credits represent a future claim on treasury funds at a 1 SC = 1 EUR rate.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#common-phrases","title":"Common Phrases","text":"Use these standardized phrases:
\"Smartup Zero\" (not \"SmartUp\" or \"smartup\") \"Smartup Credits (SC)\" on first mention, then \"SC\" \"the experiment\" (lowercase when referring to our project) \"collective ownership/craftsmanship/governance\" (our three pillars) \"ONLIFE\" (all caps - it's an acronym) "},{"location":"style-guide/#component-library","title":"\ud83e\udde9 Component Library","text":""},{"location":"style-guide/#definition-boxes","title":"Definition Boxes","text":"Example Code:
!!! info \"Smartup\"\n A new organizational model based on collective ownership, collective \n craftsmanship, and collective governance.\nRenders as:
Smartup
A new organizational model based on collective ownership, collective craftsmanship, and collective governance.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#warning-boxes","title":"Warning Boxes","text":"Example Code:
!!! warning \"Experimental Phase\"\n This process is still being tested in our micro-pilot. \n Procedures may change based on learnings.\nRenders as:
Experimental Phase
This process is still being tested in our micro-pilot. Procedures may change based on learnings.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#example-boxes","title":"Example Boxes","text":"Example Code:
!!! example \"How This Works in Practice\"\n When a developer completes a task worth 500 SC, the Team Captain \n approves it, triggering an automatic ledger update via Engelbot.\nRenders as:
How This Works in Practice
When a developer completes a task worth 500 SC, the Team Captain approves it, triggering an automatic ledger update via Engelbot.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#quote-boxes","title":"Quote Boxes","text":"Example Code:
!!! quote \"Our Inscription\"\n We don't accept our reality but seek to alter it. We are not too late \n or too early but precisely on time. The next big thing will be a mosaic \n of small things.\nRenders as:
Our Inscription
We don't accept our reality but seek to alter it. We are not too late or too early but precisely on time. The next big thing will be a mosaic of small things.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#tabs-for-multiple-perspectives","title":"Tabs for Multiple Perspectives","text":"Example Code:
=== \":material-account: For Contributors\"\n\n Learn how to join the project and start earning Smartup Credits \n by contributing your skills to building ONLIFE.\n\n=== \":material-currency-eur: For Supporters\"\n\n Discover how your financial support directly enables the development \n of public-good technology with transparent fund allocation.\n\n=== \":material-cellphone: For Future Users\"\n\n Understand how ONLIFE will provide emergency communication when \n traditional networks fail.\nRenders as:
For Contributors For Supporters For Future Users Learn how to join the project and start earning Smartup Credits by contributing your skills to building ONLIFE.
Discover how your financial support directly enables the development of public-good technology with transparent fund allocation.
Understand how ONLIFE will provide emergency communication when traditional networks fail.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#expandable-details","title":"Expandable Details","text":"Example Code:
??? question \"What are Smartup Credits?\"\n\n Smartup Credits (SC) are internal units that track contributions \n before cash is available. 1 SC = 1 EUR claim on the treasury.\n\n??? tip \"Pro Tip: Claiming Your First Task\"\n\n Start with tasks labeled \"good-first-task\" in Forgejo. Comment \n on the issue to claim it before starting work.\nRenders as:
What are Smartup Credits? Smartup Credits (SC) are internal units that track contributions before cash is available. 1 SC = 1 EUR claim on the treasury.
Pro Tip: Claiming Your First Task Start with tasks labeled \"good-first-task\" in Forgejo. Comment on the issue to claim it before starting work.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#button-styles","title":"Button Styles","text":"Example Code:
[Primary Action :material-arrow-right:](#){ .md-button .md-button--primary }\n[Secondary Action](#){ .md-button }\n[Text Link with Icon :material-open-in-new:](#)\nRenders as:
Primary Action Secondary Action Text Link with Icon
"},{"location":"style-guide/#mermaid-diagrams","title":"Mermaid Diagrams","text":"Example Code:
```mermaid\ngraph TD\n A[Contributor] -->|Creates| B[Task]\n B -->|Completes| C[Review]\n C -->|Approves| D[SC Minted]\n D -->|Logged in| E[Ledger]\n```\nRenders as:
graph TD\n A[Contributor] -->|Creates| B[Task]\n B -->|Completes| C[Review]\n C -->|Approves| D[SC Minted]\n D -->|Logged in| E[Ledger]Example Code:
!!! abstract \"Micro-Pilot Progress\"\n :material-progress-check: **35% Complete**\n\n - [x] Infrastructure deployed\n - [x] Core team assembled\n - [ ] First work cycle\n - [ ] Binding vote held\nRenders as:
Micro-Pilot Progress
35% Complete
[x] Infrastructure deployed [x] Core team assembled [ ] First work cycle [ ] Binding vote held "},{"location":"style-guide/#technical-formatting","title":"\ud83d\udd27 Technical Formatting","text":""},{"location":"style-guide/#code-blocks","title":"Code Blocks","text":"Always specify language for syntax highlighting.
Example Code:
```python\ndef mint_credits(worker, amount):\n \"\"\"Mint Smartup Credits for completed work.\"\"\"\n return ledger.add_entry(worker, amount)\n```\nRenders as:
def mint_credits(worker, amount):\n \"\"\"Mint Smartup Credits for completed work.\"\"\"\n return ledger.add_entry(worker, amount)\nExample Code:
!!! example \"ledger.log\"\n ```json\n {\"type\": \"mint\", \"worker\": \"@alice\", \"amount\": 500, \"task\": \"#42\"}\n ```\nRenders as:
ledger.log
{\"type\": \"mint\", \"worker\": \"@alice\", \"amount\": 500, \"task\": \"#42\"}\nExample Code:
```console\n$ git clone https://smartup-zero-forgejo.fly.dev/smartup-zero/0_timeline.git\n$ cd 0_timeline\n$ mkdocs serve\nINFO - Building documentation...\nINFO - Documentation built in 2.43 seconds\n```\nRenders as:
$ git clone https://smartup-zero-forgejo.fly.dev/smartup-zero/0_timeline.git\n$ cd 0_timeline\n$ mkdocs serve\nINFO - Building documentation...\nINFO - Documentation built in 2.43 seconds\nExample Code:
| Component | Status | Notes |\n|-----------|--------|-------|\n| Matrix Server | :material-check-circle: Operational | 99.9% uptime |\n| Forgejo | :material-check-circle: Operational | v1.21.3 |\n| Engelbot | :material-progress-wrench: In Progress | v0.1 pending |\nRenders as:
Component Status Notes Matrix Server Operational 99.9% uptime Forgejo Operational v1.21.3 Engelbot In Progress v0.1 pending"},{"location":"style-guide/#linking-strategy","title":"\ud83c\udf10 Linking Strategy","text":""},{"location":"style-guide/#internal-links","title":"Internal Links","text":" Use relative paths: [Team Structure](../smartup-zero/3_teams.md) Link to sections: [Voting Process](1_general_forum.md#voting) "},{"location":"style-guide/#external-links","title":"External Links","text":" Always add icon: [Open Collective :material-open-in-new:](https://opencollective.com/smartup-zero) Use descriptive text, not \"click here\" "},{"location":"style-guide/#cross-references","title":"Cross-References","text":"Example Code:
!!! tip \"Related Topics\"\n - [The Smartup Model](../0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis.md)\n - [How to Contribute](../smartup-zero/2_workplace.md)\n - [Team Structure](../smartup-zero/3_teams.md)\nRenders as:
Related Topics
The Smartup Model How to Contribute Team Structure "},{"location":"style-guide/#checklist-for-new-pages","title":"\u2705 Checklist for New Pages","text":"Before publishing any new page, ensure:
[ ] Uses appropriate icon in title [ ] Has \"What is this?\" info box [ ] Follows voice & tone guidelines [ ] Includes at least one visual element (diagram, table, or card grid) [ ] Has clear CTAs if applicable [ ] Links to related content [ ] Uses consistent terminology [ ] Mobile-friendly (test grid layouts) "},{"location":"style-guide/#quick-start-template","title":"\ud83d\ude80 Quick Start Template","text":"Copy this template when creating new pages:
**:material-icon: Page Title\n\n!!! info \"What is this?\"\n One-sentence explanation of what this page covers.\n\n**Purpose**\n\nBrief paragraph explaining why this matters in the Smartup Zero context.\n\n**Main Content**\n\nYour content here, following the patterns above...\n\n**:material-rocket-launch: Next Steps**\n\nWhat the reader should do after reading this page.\n\n!!! tip \"Related Topics\"\n - [Related Page 1](link)\n - [Related Page 2](link)\nReady to Create Content!
Now you have all the patterns and examples needed to create consistent, beautiful content for 0_timeline. Remember to reference this guide whenever you're unsure about formatting or style choices.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/terminology/","title":"terminlogy being used:","text":"0_timeline The public-facing, static website and primary transparency layer for the Smartup Zero experiment. Automatically updates from the project\u2019s code and content repository to show the latest progress, business plan, team structure, open roles, and project documentation.
1_general_forum The \u201cGeneral Forum\u201d\u2014the digital public square for all Smartup owners (workers and watchers). This is where deliberation, voting, oversight, and key discussions occur. It\u2019s the central arena for governance, transparency, and measuring the organization\u2019s overall health.
2_workplace The central, private hub for all active \u201cworkers\u201d within the Smartup. This is where work happens, teams assemble, and objectives are executed. Only those with a Work License may participate; the Workplace is the engine room of creation and productivity.
3_teams Skill-based groups within the Workplace, such as Development, Design, Media, Business, Operations, or Science. Teams focus on implementing specific aspects of the project. Each team is led by a Team Captain and organizes its own Roles and Objectives.
4_roles Function-specific assignments within a Team (e.g., UX Designer, Backend Developer, Copywriter). Each Role has requirements, compensation logic, and defines what kind of tasks the member can claim or be assigned.
5_objectives Distinct missions, project deliverables, or \u201csprints\u201d that drive the Smartup forward. Each Objective is attached to a Team, can contain multiple Tasks, and is led by a Mission Leader responsible for coordination and quality.
6_tasks The atomic units of work in Smartup Zero. Tasks are clearly defined, trackable, and billable work items that contribute directly to achieving Objectives. Each Task has an assigned Worker (attacker), an Assistant (defender), and is supported by bots or automation (midfielder).
(The rest below is alphabetical, for completeness and consistency in all documentation):
ADM Triangle Attacker\u2013Defender\u2013Midfielder: The operational triad present in every group within the Smartup. The attacker initiates work or proposals, the defender reviews and provides oversight, and the midfielder (often a bot or automation) facilitates transparency and communication between roles.
Advisory Vote / Binding Vote Advisory votes are used for team-level or ambiguous decisions; binding votes are required for major milestones, phase transitions, or conflict resolution. Binding votes require a majority in the General Forum.
Book of Owners The transparent registry listing all official Smartup owners and their rights and privileges.
Business Team The group responsible for developing a solid business proposition, marketing strategies, financial planning, and ensuring the product or service is ready for market. In charge of the business and financial side of the Smartup, and of updating the Official Smartup Business Plan (OSBP).
Collective Craftsmanship A core Smartup value. Emphasizes that meaningful work and reward are distributed among all members based on contribution and merit, not hierarchy or tenure.
Collective Governance Democratic and transparent oversight of all Smartup operations, with formal processes for deliberation, voting, dispute resolution, and adaptation.
Collective IQ The enhanced problem-solving capability created when a group collaborates with transparency and shared purpose.
Collective Ownership Equal and inclusive ownership of the Smartup organization. Ownership is based on participation and willingness to contribute, not financial investment or seniority.
Crowdfunding Phases Funding rounds aligned with each major phase of Smartup creation. Each phase cannot progress to the next without meeting its designated funding target.
Design Team The group handling all design-related activities such as user experience (UX), interface, branding, wireframing, and prototyping. Responsible for the Design Blueprint and close cooperation with the Development Team and Science Team.
Development Team The technical heart of the Smartup. Builds and tests the core product or service, covering frontend, backend, security, architecture, and QA. Coordinates with Design, Science, and Operational Teams, and manages code versioning and repositories.
Isolated Human Doctrine A term describing the prevailing system in which technology platforms reinforce individualism and passive consumption, undermining collective action and responsibility.
Karma Points / Smartup Credits (SC) Karma Points are awarded for positive and constructive participation, teamwork, or peer review; these may be convertible to payouts. Smartup Credits (SC) are a tokenized internal currency (1 SC = 1 EUR claim on treasury funds), earned through completing tasks.
Leadership Team The decision-making and strategic core of a Smartup during creation phases, composed of all team captains and the initiating entrepreneur. This team orchestrates budgets, objectives, and major decisions while being accountable to the full community.
Media Team Ensures communication flows both inside the Smartup (internal reporting, progress updates) and outside (public relations, social media, storytelling). Produces engaging content to keep the community and backers informed.
Mission Leader A senior member appointed to maintain progress and oversight within a specific objective, assign tasks, and ensure quality of work.
Objectives Defined missions, focus areas, or sprints within the Teams structure; objectives break the organizational vision into actionable missions.
Observation The analytical foundation for Smartup Zero: the world is off track for the SDGs because collective action and problem-solving are obstructed by broken digital and organizational systems.
Official Smartup Business Plan (OSBP) A \u201cliving document\u201d that records strategy, key decisions, research, assessments, and design throughout all phases; accessible to all owners.
ONLIFE The first pilot project of Smartup Zero: a decentralized, emergency citizen mesh network prototype.
Operational Team Focuses on monitoring and improving processes between teams. Handles incident management, compliance, documentation, learning, and overall coordination, especially crucial for the first Smartup where learning is key.
Organization (Phase Four) The final phase of Smartup creation, in which the executive/operational structure is finalized, the business proposition is solidified, and the product or service is prepared for market launch.
Phases of Creation The four required stages for building a Smartup and its product or service: 1. Validation \u2013 Organize support, prove viability, reach the first funding target, and form coherent teams. 2. Design \u2013 Co-create blueprints and user experiences with scientific peer review and collective input. 3. Production \u2013 Build MVP/product, run beta tests, and refine based on review and feedback. 4. Organization \u2013 Establish operational structure, complete the final business plan, and prepare for launch.
Production (Phase Three) The phase in which the product or service is built, tested, and improved based on feedback and scientific review.
Roles Specific functional positions (e.g., Frontend Developer, UX Designer, Copywriter) within Teams; define both skill requirements and compensation rates.
Science Team Group responsible for independent scientific oversight and review, ensuring that all processes and outcomes align with sustainability best practices, evidence, and scalability. Holds power to request additional research or halt advancement if standards are not met.
Sociotechnical System (STS) An integrated approach to organizational design that balances social (human) and technical (infrastructural) factors for optimal collective performance and quality of life.
Smartup A new organizational model (the subject of Smartup Zero) designed to maximize democratic, scientific, and community-driven collaboration in creating technology for social and planetary benefit.
Smartup Constitution A codified document of learnings, rules, and governance logic, iteratively developed from the Smartup Zero experiment, designed to be adapted by future Smartups.
Smartup Credits (SC) Internal, auditable digital tokens or ledger entries, representing claimable value for contributors (1 SC = 1 EUR when funds are available in the treasury).
Smartup Metabolism Metaphor for the system of processes\u2014decision-making, feedback, payout, onboarding, and documentation\u2014that enable the Smartup to adapt, sustain itself, and grow.
Smartup Organism Metaphorical framing for the entire Smartup structure as a multi-layer, living system whose \u201corgans\u201d work together toward collective vitality and resilience.
Task The atomic unit of productive work. Clearly defined, assigned, and logged; completion triggers SC payouts and structured peer/advisor review.
Team A focused group of workers with a shared skillset, responsible for a domain such as Development, Design, Media, Business, Operations, or Science. Each team is led by a Team Captain and contains multiple Roles and Objectives.
Team Captain Elected leader within a given Team; manages roles, budgets, tasks, performance, and represents the team in the Leadership Team.
Validation (Phase One) The initial phase of building a Smartup: validating the concept, building community, securing funding, and operationalizing the vision.
Watch License / Work License A Watch License grants governance and observation rights within the Smartup, but not paid assignments. A Work License grants the full right to work, vote, and earn Smartup Credits.
Workplace The centralized collaborative production environment for all workers, where concurrent teamwork and objectives are managed.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/","title":"The Experiment","text":"What is this?
This is not mere theory. Smartup Zero is a real-time experiment in building a totally new kind of digital organization\u2014one designed from the ground up to fix the system misalignments holding back progress on the SDGs. Here we present the core architecture of a Smartup.
just give me the abstract The Smartup Hypothese is a set of rules, processes, workflows and tools that together form an operation system designed to have large group of people work together efficiently, transparant and mission-driven on tools that should help people drive the SDG\u2019s forward. In essence we are trying to build a better toolkit for future generations. The operation system is described below as a living oranganism. We\u2019ll dive in it\u2019s it\u2019s natural habitat, it\u2019s anatomy, it\u2019s metabolism and In a Smartup, \u201ccitizens\u201d work collaboratively and interchangeably on ideas that have the potential to break old paradigms and show new ways forward. It is an organization designed to create tools for people to work both on and within their communities.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#the-architecture-of-a-smartup","title":"The Architecture of a Smartup","text":"Definition: A Smartup creates trustworthy digital tools that help people\u2014and the communities they form\u2014become more resilient, resourceful, and effective in advancing the SDGs.
At its core, every Smartup is built like an institute: a layered foundation and three strong pillars.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#_1","title":"The Experiment","text":""},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#the-foundation","title":"The Foundation","text":" Science: Every tool we create is grounded in facts, evidence, and tested knowledge. The problems we tackle are science-proven, and solutions must stand up to real-world scrutiny. Democracy: Our process and decisions are open and participatory. Everyone has a voice and a vote; no gated hierarchies, no closed rooms. Collective IQ: We are smarter together. All skills and ideas are pooled so we solve more, faster, and with better results than any one person or small group could alone. "},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#the-three-pillars","title":"The Three Pillars","text":" Collective Ownership Everyone who joins and contributes is an equal owner. There are no founders, investors, or external shareholders\u2014just people \u201cin it\u201d together. Collective Craftsmanship All work and effort are shared\u2014teams build, improve, and sustain everything the Smartup delivers. Value is earned by doing, not by owning capital. Collective Governance Decision-making and oversight are for everyone. Every contributor holds both rights and responsibilities for what the Smartup does and how it does it. Why this design?
This layered architecture reshapes what an organization can do. Built on science, democracy, and collective intelligence, a Smartup\u2019s three pillars make sure trust, effort, and stewardship are truly shared\u2014laying a robust foundation for all digital tools that follow.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#the-4-phases-of-creation-the-habitat-of-a-smartup","title":"The 4 phases of creation - the Habitat of a Smartup","text":"What is this?
Every Smartup grows through four clear, community-driven phases. This rhythm\u2014from first idea to real-world launch\u2014ensures that only validated, sustainable, and well-governed solutions reach the market. At every step, the decision to move forward belongs to the entire Smartup community.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#phase-1-validation","title":"Phase 1 \u2013 Validation","text":"The journey begins with an idea\u2014and a question for the world: \u201cDoes anyone else truly want and need this?\u201d
In the Validation phase, entrepreneurs and early adaptors rally a vibrant, organized community around a solution. Success here means showing real traction, both in people and resources. Only once a critical mass is reached, and the community approves, can the project move on.
Thresholds to advance:
[ ] Financial target reached (crowdfunding or community pooling) [ ] Official Smartup Business Plan and initial design ready [ ] Leadership Team formed [ ] Majority community vote to continue "},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#phase-2-design","title":"Phase 2 \u2013 Design","text":"Now the blueprint is created. Contributors across the Smartup bring forward concepts, plans, and architecture\u2014answering: \u201cHow can we build this so it\u2019s sustainable, scalable, and efficient?\u201d
Throughout this phase, all designs are open for input and peer review. A Science Team performs a rigorous check before any development work begins.
Thresholds to move forward:
[ ] Financial target reached [ ] Design Blueprint delivered [ ] Scientific review by the Science Team passed [ ] Majority community vote to build "},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#phase-3-production","title":"Phase 3 \u2013 Production","text":"The community shifts from design thinking to hands-on creation. Together, everyone works on an MVP (Minimal Viable Product), testing and improving it with real citizens. Only after successful beta testing and another scientific + market review is the full version prepared for launch.
Thresholds to continue:
[ ] Financial target reached [ ] Version 1.0 beta tested within the community [ ] Market assessment by the business team complete [ ] Majority community vote to finalize "},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#phase-4-organization","title":"Phase 4 \u2013 Organization","text":"Final step: build the team and structure to take the product or service to market. An executive team is chosen from the community. Legal, marketing, and business pieces are set\u2014always with scientific validation and open community input.
Thresholds for market launch:
[ ] Financial target reached [ ] Executive team formed [ ] Final Business Plan and market assessment ready [ ] Majority community vote: ready for launch! flowchart LR\n V[Validation - idea, community, seed funding]\n D[Design - blueprint, scientific review]\n P[Production - MVP, beta test, v1.0]\n O[Organization - exec team, legal, market ready]\n\n V --> D --> P --> OWhy these phases?
Each phase ensures what\u2019s being built is wanted, sound, and fully owned by the community before advancing. Built-in checkpoints\u2014majority votes and scientific reviews\u2014keep momentum aligned with trust and quality at every step.
Next: See how Smartup teams, roles, and workflows make collective building a reality.
Continue to Anatomy & Workflows
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#the-smartup-organism","title":"The Smartup Organism","text":"What is this?
To create real, relevant technology, a Smartup can\u2019t just be a loose network\u2014it needs to be a productive, living system. But if nobody has absolute power\u2014not even a CEO\u2014how do decisions get made and meaningful work actually happen? The answer: the Smartup is a new kind of \u201corganism\u201d built for collective intelligence and self-organization.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#the-anatomy-of-a-smartup","title":"The Anatomy of a Smartup","text":"If you could slice a Smartup open, you\u2019d see something that looks more like a living ecosystem than a traditional corporate pyramid. Instead of strict hierarchy and top-down control, power and responsibility are distributed through a holacratic structure: nested groups, each supporting the whole.
\u201cHolacracy is a new way of structuring and running your organization that replaces the conventional management hierarchy. Instead of top-down, power is distributed throughout, giving individuals and teams more freedom to self-manage, while staying aligned to the organization\u2019s purpose.\u201d \u2014 holacracy.org
In a Smartup, these circles are groups\u2014each one crucial for the whole, each one depending on\u2014and empowering\u2014the next.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#the-six-groups-of-productivity","title":"The Six Groups of Productivity","text":"A Smartup is designed so that all ownership, work, and governance flow through six nested groups. Think of them as a set of Russian dolls: each group contains smaller subgroups, but all belong to the \u201cmother\u201d at the center, the General Forum.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#1-general-forum","title":"1. General Forum","text":"The heart of the Smartup. All citizens (owners) gather here to discuss, propose, vote, and oversee everything. It\u2019s the public square for collective direction, accountability, and signals of community health.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#2-workplace","title":"2. Workplace","text":"The production engine. Citizens with a work license join the Workplace to build what matters. Here, talk turns into action: plans become teams, teams build real things.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#3-teams","title":"3. Teams","text":"Home base for specialized work. Every worker is on at least one team\u2014like design, development, or business. Teams focus effort and harness specific skills toward shared goals.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#4-roles","title":"4. Roles","text":"How you contribute. In each team, citizens apply for roles that fit their talents\u2014UX designer, developer, communicator, and more. Roles define responsibility and open access to key projects.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#5-objectives","title":"5. Objectives","text":"What\u2019s to be achieved. Teams and roles progress by setting and accomplishing objectives\u2014specific outcomes or missions, like \u201cCreate the Android app front-end.\u201d Each objective may need several roles.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#6-tasks","title":"6. Tasks","text":"The smallest\u2014and most important\u2014unit. Tasks are where real, measurable progress happens. Each one gets done by a worker (or workers), supported by an assistant, and tracked by a bot. Do the task, contribute value, get rewarded\u2014the building blocks of a productive Smartup.
Why this structure?
By distributing power and responsibility through these six groups, a Smartup stays productive, resilient, and transparent\u2014even as it grows. No single person or \u201cboss\u201d controls the system; instead, everyone is a citizen, worker, and caretaker. The system itself keeps everything aligned and moving forward.
Continue to the Metabolism (ADM Triangle)
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/","title":"The Observation","text":""},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#observation","title":"Observation","text":"What is this?
This page documents, through a sociotechnical lens, what the 2025 UN SDG Progress Report demonstrates about the state of global development systems. We observe\u2014not prescribe\u2014where and how deep misalignments persist between people, technology, and larger structures.
I just want the abstract This Observation page documents a rigorous, up-to-date account of global progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the lens of sociotechnical systems theory. Drawing directly from the 2025 United Nations SDG Progress Report, we assemble evidence that confirms a troubling reality: while knowledge, innovation, and digital infrastructure have all advanced, structural misalignments persist between our social behaviors, technical systems, and external incentives. These misalignments\u2014identified as social, technical, and external subsystems\u2014are at the heart of why collective action on urgent global challenges continues to fall short. Here, we reference authoritative data and expert analysis, not to propose solutions, but to precisely clarify where the current system fails and why a new approach is urgently required. This scientific baseline serves as the foundation for the hypotheses and experiments developed on subsequent pages.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#sdg-progress-the-world-at-an-inflection-point","title":"SDG Progress \u2013 The World at an Inflection Point","text":"United Nations SDG Report 2025
\u201cThe world remains far off track from achieving the 2030 Agenda. Of the 169 SDG targets, only 35% show adequate progress\u201418% are on track, 17% making moderate progress. In contrast, 48% show insufficient progress, and 18% of targets have regressed below 2015 baseline levels.\u201d
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#our-methoda-sociotechnical-lens","title":"Our Method\u2014A Sociotechnical Lens","text":"What is Sociotechnical Theory?
\u201cSociotechnical theory is about joint optimization: designing systems where technical performance and human wellbeing are advanced together. It focuses on how social behaviors interact with technology, shaping both productivity and the quality of our collective work lives.\u201d \u2014 Wikipedia: Sociotechnical Systems
\u201cOriginally, computing focused on hardware, then software, then human-computer interaction, and now\u2014at the level of sociotechnical systems\u2014it considers how whole communities work through technology.\u201d \u2014 The Interaction Design Foundation, STS
\u201cA community works through people using technology.\u201d
In this spirit, our observations are grounded in the science of sociotechnical systems:
We ask: Where do our social, technical, and external systems align or misalign with collective wellbeing and progress? We observe: Not just individuals with tools, but communities and societies\u2014working, failing, or succeeding together, by and through their technologies.
graph TD\n SS[**Social Subsystem**<br/><sub>Attributes of people -skills, attitudes, values-, relationships, reward systems, authority</sub>]\n TS[**Technical Subsystem**<br/><sub>Processes, tasks, technology for transforming inputs to outputs</sub>]\n ES[**External Subsystem**<br/><sub>Outside influences, stakeholders, partnering perspectives</sub>]\n SS -- \"Work System Design\" --- JO[**Joint Optimization**]\n TS -- \"Work System Design\" --- JO\n ES -- \"Pulls/Influences\" --> JOAs we become more connected and more informed about the thousands of challenges facing humanity, we can\u2019t help but notice a painful truth: despite our awareness, nothing we do as individuals seems to move the needle. Decades after the Club of Rome\u2019s \u2018Limits to Growth\u2019 warned us about the risks of unchecked development, growing awareness about the links between society and our natural world still hasn\u2019t triggered fundamental shifts in how we organize ourselves.
We measure more, know more, and have greater access to scientific insight than ever before. Yet, remarkably few of us are actually working on real solutions to real problems. Instead, we find ourselves trapped in a paradox: the better we get at calculating and exposing the effects of our culture on nature, the less agency we feel to change the course we\u2019re on.
We\u2019re overwhelmed, not just by the data and complexity, but by a constant barrage of conflicting information, misinformation, and cultural warfare\u2014conditions that make genuine collaboration and action feel impossible. It\u2019s as if the systems around us are designed to keep us running in place, growing tired, but never reaching meaningful progress.
Deep down, we recognize ourselves in this paradox. We are the hamsters, running tirelessly on wheels built by economies and power structures that benefit from our distraction and confusion. This is the central issue we need to name and break: the system that keeps us moving, but rarely moving forward.
UN Confirmation
\u201cPersistent inequalities continue to limit human potential... The broader context is increasingly complex. Climate change continues to accelerate... A $4 trillion annual financing gap constrains development progress.\"
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#what-we-observe","title":"What We Observe:","text":" Routines and incentive systems keep individuals in cycles that reinforce, not repair, the global crises. Those most threatened by these risks are generally excluded from shaping system-level responses. "},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#technical-subsystem-fault-the-isolated-human-doctrine","title":"Technical Subsystem Fault \u2014 The Isolated Human Doctrine","text":"When we look honestly at the world\u2019s urgent challenges, it\u2019s not just their complexity that weighs on us\u2014it\u2019s the shape our own societies are in to overcome them. We find ourselves divided, distracted, and often addicted to digital habits, while the most powerful organizations on earth benefit from keeping us apart. Increasingly, our technology is designed to isolate us\u2014as users, as consumers, not as collaborators or citizens. This is what we call the isolated human doctrine.
This doctrine does more than make us passive\u2014it also convinces us to wait for someone else to solve the crisis. We\u2019re conditioned to look to governments, powerful leaders, or brands to invent our way out of these problems. But the truth is, they won\u2019t. Deep down, we know we need to step up\u2014not as lone heroes, but as people who are a bit more organized, a bit more connected, and united by purpose.
We\u2019ve been told a better world starts with \u201cfixing yourself.\u201d If we face these challenges alone, everything feels too big to tackle. But if we face them together, maybe\u2014just maybe\u2014they become possible.
UN Confirmation
\u201cProgress has been deeply inadequate. This reflects... a fundamental problem in how we measure, monitor and respond to global development needs... Statistical systems remain chronically underfunded\u2014treated as technical afterthoughts.\u201d
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#what-we-observe_1","title":"What We Observe:","text":" The explosion of data and connectivity isn\u2019t translating into collective agency or action. Citizens are \u201cusers\u201d rather than full contributors. Siloed data, vulnerable infrastructure, and lack of trust persist\u2014especially for the most vital SDGs. graph LR\n subgraph Technical Subsystem\n D[Digital Growth] --> E(Increased Data)\n E --> F(\"Trust & Feedback Gaps\")\n F -->|Missed SDGs| G[Collective Inaction]\n endWe feel a growing sense of urgency as we watch our grip on the world slip away\u2014just when we need clarity and collective strength the most. The explosion of digital content and internet access was supposed to empower us. It did make knowledge more available than ever. Now, everyone can publish, create, and share at the speed of thought.
But all this information hasn\u2019t brought us together\u2014it\u2019s become a battleground for the agendas of corporations and political powers. Instead of uniting us, today\u2019s internet is often used to distract, confuse, and divide. Powerful interests, not people, steer the flow of content and shape what we believe.
Somehow, we have let this happen: the internet\u2019s promise hijacked by those who profit from division and distraction, instead of fostering the collaboration we urgently need. There\u2019s no single cause, but the result is clear\u2014a system that floods us with information, but makes meaningful, collective change harder than ever.
UN Confirmation
\u201cFunding for global data... remains heavily dependent on a small group of major funders... The fragility of data financing is well-illustrated after abrupt termination of funding... which now threatens the production of critical data needed to monitor progress on multiple SDG indicators.\u201d
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#what-we-observe_2","title":"What We Observe:","text":" Funding, priorities, and risk tolerance sit outside the collective, subject to abrupt reversals. Systemic dependence leads to fragility and volatility in critical development data and solutions. flowchart TD\n SDG[Global SDG Targets\\nfalling short]\n subgraph Social\n A[Hamsters in the Wheel]\n end\n subgraph Technical\n B[Isolated Human Doctrine]\n end\n subgraph External\n C[Distorted Incentives]\n end\n SDG --> A\n SDG --> B\n SDG --> C\n A -- \"Traps talent & solidarity\"\\n(inequality, exclusion) --> A1[Low collective action]\n B -- \"Optimizes for reporting & consumption,\\nnot participatory agency\" --> B1[Fragile and siloed data systems]\n C -- \"Short-term, external \\(and boom-bust\\) priorities\" --> C1[Funding shocks, stalling progress]Shared Analysis
\u201cThe challenges we face are inherently global and interconnected. No country... can address climate change, pandemic preparedness or inequality alone. ...Sustainable development is not a zero-sum game, but a shared endeavour that benefits all.\u201d
\u2014 UN SDG Progress Report 2025, Call for renewed multilateralism
Our Scientific Take: The 2025 SDG Progress Report confirms what systems theorists have observed for years: - Global stalling isn\u2019t due to ignorance or lack of effort, but structural misalignment\u2014across social, technical, and external (funding/governance) systems. - As long as these systems remain fragmented or externally steered, collective progress will remain slow, fragile, and easily reversed.
Continue to the Hypothesis
References: - The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2025 (PDF, unstats.un.org)
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#ready-to-contribute","title":"Ready to Contribute?","text":"Join the Project
Become a Smartup Zero owner
Join via Open Collective
Start Discussing
Connect with the community
Enter Matrix Space
Start Building
Pick up your first task
Browse Open Tasks
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis/","title":"Hypothesis","text":"What is this?
This section sets out our core scientific and practical hypothesis for Smartup Zero. Instead of patching old systems, we propose re-engineering the way technology is built, owned, and governed\u2014creating a new \u201cspecies\u201d of organization that can address the failures confirmed by both the latest SDG report and sociotechnical theory.
I just want to see the abstract This page sets out the core hypothesis behind Smartup Zero. Building on our observations\u2014and the latest evidence from the UN\u2019s SDG report\u2014we believe the current way technology is created, owned, and governed keeps us from making real progress on urgent global challenges. Our hypothesis: If we redesign digital organizations\u2014so that ownership, contribution, and decision-making are collective, transparent, and grounded in science\u2014then we can finally create the digital toolset and community power needed to reach our shared goals. This page breaks down how we think these system shifts must happen, subsystem by subsystem.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis/#core-hypothesis","title":"Core Hypothesis","text":"Our world is missing its SDG targets not for lack of effort, ideas, or technical skill\u2014but because the systems we use to build, fund, and govern technology are fundamentally misaligned with collective needs.
Startups, NGOs, and even open source teams generally follow a logic that prioritizes shareholders, siloed expertise, or short-term results. These familiar models cannot fix our biggest problems at their roots.
We need a new kind of digital institution\u2014a true sociotechnical \u201corganism,\u201d designed from the ground up so that collective action is easy, meaningful, and sustainable.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis/#1-adjustment-to-the-social-subsystem","title":"1. Adjustment to the Social Subsystem","text":"Today, ownership and power over technology live with founders and shareholders\u2014not the people who use and build it. Most people are locked out of real decision-making, or can only \u201chelp\u201d on the side.
Our hypothesis: If we move from shareholder-owned technology to people-owned technology, then joining, contributing, earning, and governing become accessible to all. Participating in positive change becomes a \u201cday job,\u201d not an afterthought.
In Practice
In a Smartup, all contributors\u2014no matter their background\u2014can own, shape, and steer the direction of projects together.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis/#2-adjustment-to-the-technical-subsystem","title":"2. Adjustment to the Technical Subsystem","text":"The mainstream model of digital design treats people as isolated \u201cusers.\u201d Our tools are engineered for personal consumption or individual productivity\u2014not for communities trying to solve big problems together.
Our hypothesis: If we explicitly design technology for citizen groups\u2014drawing on the lessons of Douglas Engelbart and others\u2014then our collective intelligence and ability to take coordinated action will accelerate. \u201cSmartup tech is built for groups to collaborate, deliberate, and act as one.\u201d
Inspiration
\u201cThe real breakthrough comes when technology supports groups solving problems together.\u201d \u2014 Douglas Engelbart (paraphrased)
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis/#3-adjustment-to-the-external-subsystem","title":"3. Adjustment to the External Subsystem","text":"Traditional organizations\u2014corporations, governments, even many NGOs\u2014depend on closed funding streams, proprietary platforms, and top-down decision-making. These systems are vulnerable to external shocks and often shaped by priorities at odds with public value.
Our hypothesis: If we shift to decentralized, open funding (via crowdfunding, community partnerships, and open-source collaboration), then technology projects can remain truly accountable and resilient\u2014serving society, not distant investors or powerbrokers.
Mechanism
Smartup Zero is structured so that funding, data, and decision rights are distributed and transparent\u2014not captured by single entities or platforms.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis/#blueprint-for-a-new-kind-of-organization","title":"Blueprint for a New Kind of Organization","text":"In summary: To realign our systems with societal and planetary needs, we hypothesize that a new kind of organization\u2014one that rewires ownership, technical design, and external relationships\u2014can transform collective intent into real progress.
What's Next?
The next section documents how we are testing these hypotheses through the Smartup Zero experiment, step by step.
Dive into the Smartup Blueprint
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis/#ready-to-contribute","title":"Ready to Contribute?","text":"Join the Project
Become a Smartup Zero owner
Join via Open Collective
Start Discussing
Connect with the community
Enter Matrix Space
Start Building
Pick up your first task
Browse Open Tasks
"},{"location":"_snippets/0_timeline/","title":"0 timeline","text":"0_timeline The space where Smartups are designed, tested, and documented\u2014in public. All progress is shared here, step by step.
"},{"location":"_snippets/join-cta/","title":"Join cta","text":""},{"location":"_snippets/join-cta/#ready-to-contribute","title":"Ready to Contribute?","text":"Join the Project
Become a Smartup Zero owner
Join via Open Collective
Start Discussing
Connect with the community
Enter Matrix Space
Start Building
Pick up your first task
Browse Open Tasks
"},{"location":"_snippets/onlife/","title":"Onlife","text":"markdown
ONLIFE The actual technology we're building: A decentralized emergency network for European citizen resilience.
"},{"location":"_snippets/phase-indicator/","title":"Phase indicator","text":"Phase Status
Status: Active Duration: 30 days Started: January 1, 2025 Target End: January 31, 2025
"},{"location":"_snippets/readme/","title":"Readme","text":"status card: This snippet can be included in any page using:
Completed
[Description of completed item]
View details
In Progress
[Description of in-progress item]
Track progress
Planned
[Description of planned item]
See roadmap
"},{"location":"_snippets/sdg-grid/","title":"Sdg grid","text":""},{"location":"_snippets/smartup-zero/","title":"Smartup zero","text":"Smartup Zero Our first live experiment. Testing the Smartup model in real time. Failures and successes are both part of the process.
"},{"location":"_snippets/smartup/","title":"Smartup","text":"Smartup A new hypothesis: What if building technology worked more like a scientific experiment? Community-owned. Transparent. Measured.
"},{"location":"_snippets/status-card/","title":"Status card","text":" Completed
[Description of completed item]
View details
In Progress
[Description of in-progress item]
Track progress
Planned
[Description of planned item]
See roadmap
"},{"location":"_snippets/team-card/","title":"Team card","text":""},{"location":"_snippets/team-card/#team-name","title":"Team Name","text":"Quick Links
Repos Chat Tasks
Captain: @username Members: 5 active Mission: One-line mission statement
Current Focus: - Current objective 1 - Current objective 2
"},{"location":"_templates/","title":"\ud83d\udccb Smartup Zero Content Templates","text":"This directory contains templates for common page types. Using these templates ensures consistency across all documentation.
"},{"location":"_templates/#available-templates","title":"Available Templates","text":""},{"location":"_templates/#phase-pagemd","title":"\ud83d\udcc5 phase-page.md","text":"Use this template when documenting project phases.
Usage: ```bash cp docs/_templates/phase-page.md docs/0_timeline/phases/phase-0-micropilot.md
"},{"location":"_templates/#then-edit-to-fill-in-the-placeholders","title":"Then edit to fill in the [placeholders]","text":"When to use:
Documenting any of the 4 phases (Validation, Design, Production, Organization) Creating phase-specific status pages Planning future phases How to Use Templates Copy the template to your target location Replace all [placeholder] text with actual content Remove any sections that aren't relevant Follow the style guide for formatting Creating New Templates When creating new templates:
Use clear placeholders in [Square Brackets] Include all standard components from the style guide Add usage instructions to this README Test the template by creating a sample page
"},{"location":"_templates/page-template/","title":":material-icon: Page Title","text":"What is this?
One-sentence explanation of what this page covers.
"},{"location":"_templates/page-template/#purpose","title":"Purpose","text":"Brief paragraph explaining why this matters in the Smartup Zero context.
"},{"location":"_templates/page-template/#main-content","title":"Main Content","text":"Your content here...
"},{"location":"_templates/page-template/#next-steps","title":"Next Steps","text":"What the reader should do after reading this page.
Related Topics
Related Page 1 Related Page 2 "},{"location":"_templates/phase-page/","title":":material-numeric-[X]-circle: Phase [Number]: [Phase Name]","text":"What is this?
This page documents Phase [Number] of the Smartup Zero experiment, including goals, timeline, and deliverables.
"},{"location":"_templates/phase-page/#overview","title":"Overview","text":"Phase Status
Status: [Not Started/Active/Complete] Duration: [X] days Started: [Date or TBD] Target End: [Date or TBD] Actual End: [Date or TBD]
[Brief description of what this phase is about and why it's important]
"},{"location":"_templates/phase-page/#goals-success-criteria","title":"Goals & Success Criteria","text":""},{"location":"_templates/phase-page/#primary-goals","title":"Primary Goals","text":""},{"location":"_templates/phase-page/#deliverables","title":"Deliverables","text":"Deliverable Description Owner Status [Name] [What it is] @team/person Done [Name] [What it is] @team/person In Progress [Name] [What it is] @team/person Planned"},{"location":"_templates/phase-page/#timeline","title":"Timeline","text":"```mermaid gantt title Phase [Number] Timeline dateFormat YYYY-MM-DD section Preparation [Task 1] :2025-01-01, 7d section Development [Task 2] :7d [Task 3] :7d section Review [Task 4] :3d Budget & Resources Financial Requirements Target Funding: \u20ac[Amount] Raised: \u20ac[Amount] Burn Rate: \u20ac[Amount]/month Human Resources Contributors Needed: [Number] Current Team Size: [Number] Key Roles to Fill: [List] Key Decisions & Gates
Phase Gate Requirements
Before proceeding to the next phase, we must:
text 1. Achieve financial target of \u20ac[Amount] 2. Complete all primary deliverables 3. Pass scientific review (if applicable) 4. Hold binding vote to proceed Lessons Learned
Insights from this phase Document key learnings as the phase progresses:
text - What worked well - What didn't work - What we'd do differently - Recommendations for future phases
Related Documents Previous Phase Next Phase Overall Experiment Project Timeline
"},{"location":"_templates/team-page/","title":"[Team Name] Team","text":"What is this?
This page describes the [Team Name] team's mission, members, and current work.
"},{"location":"_templates/team-page/#purpose","title":"Purpose","text":"[Explain why this team exists and what unique value it brings to Smartup Zero]
"},{"location":"_templates/team-page/#team-structure","title":"Team Structure","text":"Quick Links
Team Repos Team Room Open Tasks
Captain: @username Members: X active contributors Formed: [Month Year]
"},{"location":"_templates/team-page/#team-members","title":"Team Members","text":"Member Role Joined Specialties @captain Team Captain Jan 2025 Leadership, [Skill] @member1 [Role] Jan 2025 [Skills] @member2 [Role] Jan 2025 [Skills]"},{"location":"_templates/team-page/#mission-statement","title":"Mission Statement","text":"[One clear paragraph describing what this team is responsible for]
"},{"location":"_templates/team-page/#current-objectives","title":"Current Objectives","text":""},{"location":"_templates/team-page/#active-objectives","title":"Active Objectives","text":" [Objective Name] (Due: [Date]) Description of what needs to be achieved Key deliverable Success metrics
[Objective Name] (Due: [Date])
Description of what needs to be achieved Key deliverable Success metrics "},{"location":"_templates/team-page/#completed-objectives","title":"Completed Objectives","text":"View completed work [Objective] - Completed [Date] [Objective] - Completed [Date] "},{"location":"_templates/team-page/#how-we-work","title":"How We Work","text":""},{"location":"_templates/team-page/#communication","title":"Communication","text":" Primary Channel: Element room #3_[team-name] Meetings: [Frequency] at [Time] UTC Decisions: Made by consensus, escalated to captain if needed "},{"location":"_templates/team-page/#contribution-process","title":"Contribution Process","text":" Check open tasks in our project board Comment on task to claim it Submit PR when complete Captain or designated reviewer approves "},{"location":"_templates/team-page/#resources","title":"Resources","text":""},{"location":"_templates/team-page/#documentation","title":"Documentation","text":" Team handbook Technical guidelines Best practices "},{"location":"_templates/team-page/#tools","title":"Tools","text":" [Tool 1] - Purpose [Tool 2] - Purpose "},{"location":"_templates/team-page/#join-our-team","title":"Join Our Team","text":"Interested in joining the [Team Name] team? Here's how:
Join the General Forum Introduce yourself in our team room Pick up a \"good first task\" Attend our next team meeting Questions?
Reach out to our captain @captain in Element
"},{"location":"_templates/team-template/","title":"Team template","text":""},{"location":"_templates/team-template/#team-name","title":"Team Name","text":"Quick Links
Team Repos Team Room Open Tasks
Captain: @username Members: X active contributors Formed: Month Year
Mission: One clear sentence describing the team's purpose.
Current Objectives: - Objective 1 with deadline - Objective 2 with deadline
"}]}
\ No newline at end of file
+{"config":{"lang":["en"],"separator":"[\\s\\-]+","pipeline":["stopWordFilter"]},"docs":[{"location":"","title":"The System Change Marketplace","text":"BING! YOU ARRIVED AT 0_TIMELINE Here we don\u2019t accept our reality but seek to alter it. The clock is ticking. The tools we rely on are not helping us progress on the UN Sutainable Development Goals . We need a new toolset.
0_timeline is the place where we can forge that new toolset. Right now, we are building the first one..
"},{"location":"#what-is-0_timeline","title":"What is 0_timeline? A living public experiment. Everything happens here: ideas, decisions, roles, challenges, breakthroughs.
We\u2019re building technology like a scientific experiment: - Transparent - Community-owned - Measured and documented
","text":""},{"location":"#the-four-elements-of-our-atom","title":"\ud83e\uddec The Four Elements of Our Atom 0_timeline The space where Smartups are designed, tested, and shared\u2014step by step. Smartup A new way to build technology: Transparent. Community-driven. Experimental. Smartup Zero Our first live experiment. Testing the Smartup model\u2014failures and successes both matter. ONLIFE The technology we\u2019re building: A decentralized emergency network for European citizen resilience.","text":""},{"location":"#our-alignment-with-the-un-sdgs","title":"\ud83c\udf0d Our Alignment with the UN SDGs We\u2019re not just building tech\u2014we\u2019re contributing to global goals.
","text":""},{"location":"#radical-transparency","title":"Radical Transparency We believe the next generation of digital infrastructure must be open:
Open decisions Open failures Open success tracking Open governance ","text":""},{"location":"#why-are-we-doing-this","title":"Why are we doing this? Because the system isn\u2019t working. We need new methods to create\u2014and govern\u2014the technology that shapes our world.
Smartup Zero is our experiment to test that belief. In the open. For everyone to see.
","text":""},{"location":"#join-the-experiment","title":"Join the Experiment","text":""},{"location":"#ready-to-contribute","title":"Ready to Contribute? Join the Project
Become a Smartup Zero owner
Join via Open Collective
Start Discussing
Connect with the community
Enter Matrix Space
Start Building
Pick up your first task
Browse Open Tasks
","text":""},{"location":"style-guide/","title":"\ud83d\udcd6 0_timeline Content Style Guide","text":"Purpose
This guide ensures consistent content across the 0_timeline website. All contributors should reference this when creating or editing content. Our goal is to make complex ideas accessible while maintaining the experimental, transparent spirit of Smartup Zero.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#visual-language","title":"\ud83c\udfa8 Visual Language","text":""},{"location":"style-guide/#icon-dictionary","title":"Icon Dictionary","text":"Always use these icons for consistency across all pages:
Concept Icon Code Usage Preview Organizational Structure General Forum :material-forum: Public discussions, voting, governance Workplace :material-briefcase: Worker-only spaces and content Teams :material-account-group: Team-related content Roles :material-card-account-details: Role definitions and assignments Objectives :material-target: Project goals and missions Tasks :material-checkbox-marked-circle: Individual work items Project Specifics ONLIFE :material-alert-decagram: Emergency network references Smartup Model :material-atom: Core model concepts Experiment :material-flask: Scientific method references Actions & States Vote :material-vote: Governance decisions Join :material-account-plus: Recruitment/onboarding Build :material-hammer: Development work Success :material-check-circle: Completed/positive items Warning :material-alert: Important notices Info :material-information: Explanations Financial Treasury :material-currency-eur: Money/funding matters Credits :material-coin: Smartup Credits (SC) Technical Code :material-code-tags: Development/repos Infrastructure :material-server: Technical stack Communication :material-chat: Matrix/Element"},{"location":"style-guide/#color-philosophy","title":"Color Philosophy","text":" Primary (Amber) \ud83d\udfe8: Energy, innovation, warmth - use for main CTAs and highlights Accent (Lime) \ud83d\udfe9: Growth, freshness, progress - use for success states and secondary actions Semantic Colors: Use mkdocs-material's built-in admonition colors for meaning "},{"location":"style-guide/#content-patterns","title":"\ud83d\udcd0 Content Patterns","text":""},{"location":"style-guide/#page-headers","title":"Page Headers","text":"Every page should start with a clear hierarchy.
Example Code:
###:material-forum: Our General Forum\n\n!!! info \"What is this?\"\n The public square for all Smartup Zero owners where governance happens.\n\n### Purpose\n\nThis is where we make collective decisions that shape our project's future.\nRenders as:
"},{"location":"style-guide/#our-general-forum","title":"Our General Forum","text":"What is this?
The public square for all Smartup Zero owners where governance happens.
Purpose
This is where we make collective decisions that shape our project's future.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#status-indicators","title":"Status Indicators","text":"For showing project or phase status.
Example Code:
<div class=\"grid cards\" markdown>\n\n- :material-check-circle:{ .lg .middle } **Infrastructure**\n\n ---\n\n Core services deployed and operational\n\n [:octicons-arrow-right-24: View details](#)\n\n- :material-progress-clock:{ .lg .middle } **ONLIFE Development**\n\n ---\n\n Building the MVP emergency network\n\n [:octicons-arrow-right-24: Track progress](#)\n\n- :material-calendar-clock:{ .lg .middle } **First Funding**\n\n ---\n\n Crowdfunding campaign preparation\n\n [:octicons-arrow-right-24: See timeline](#)\n\n</div>\nRenders as:
Infrastructure
Core services deployed and operational
View details
ONLIFE Development
Building the MVP emergency network
Track progress
First Funding
Crowdfunding campaign preparation
See timeline
"},{"location":"style-guide/#team-cards","title":"Team Cards","text":"Standard format for presenting teams.
Example Code:
**:material-account-group: Development Team**\n\n<aside class=\"md-typeset\" markdown>\n!!! tip inline end \"Quick Links\"\n :material-git: [Team Repos](https://smartup-zero-forgejo.fly.dev/smartup-zero/dev-team) \n :material-chat: [Team Room](#3_dev-team) \n :material-clipboard-list: [Open Tasks](#)\n</aside>\n\n**Captain:** [@alice](https://matrix.to/#/@alice:matrix.org) \n**Members:** 5 active contributors \n**Formed:** January 2025 \n\n**Mission:** Build the ONLIFE emergency communication protocol and apps.\n\n**Current Objectives:**\n- Complete Android MVP by Feb 28\n- Implement mesh networking core\nRenders as:
Development Team
Quick Links
Team Repos Team Room Open Tasks
Captain: @alice Members: 5 active contributors Formed: January 2025
Mission: Build the ONLIFE emergency communication protocol and apps.
Current Objectives: - Complete Android MVP by Feb 28 - Implement mesh networking core
"},{"location":"style-guide/#phase-documentation","title":"Phase Documentation","text":"For describing project phases.
Example Code:
**:material-numeric-0-circle: Phase 0: Micro-Pilot**\n\n<aside class=\"md-typeset\" markdown>\n!!! info inline end \"Phase Status\"\n **Status:** Active \n **Duration:** 30 days \n **Started:** Jan 1, 2025 \n **Target:** Jan 31, 2025\n</aside>\n\n**Goals for This Phase**\n\n- [x] Deploy core infrastructure\n- [ ] Onboard 15-20 contributors\n- [ ] Complete one full work cycle\n\n**Key Deliverables**\n\n| Deliverable | Description | Status |\n|-------------|-------------|---------|\n| Tech Stack | Forgejo + Matrix deployed | :material-check: Done |\n| Engelbot | Automation bot v0.1 | :material-progress-wrench: In Progress |\n| First Task | Test the SC system | :material-calendar: Planned |\nRenders as:
Phase 0: Micro-Pilot
Phase Status
Status: Active Duration: 30 days Started: Jan 1, 2025 Target: Jan 31, 2025
Goals for This Phase
[x] Deploy core infrastructure [ ] Onboard 15-20 contributors [ ] Complete one full work cycle Key Deliverables
Deliverable Description Status Tech Stack Forgejo + Matrix deployed Done Engelbot Automation bot v0.1 In Progress First Task Test the SC system Planned"},{"location":"style-guide/#call-to-action-sections","title":"Call-to-Action Sections","text":"For encouraging participation.
Example Code:
**:material-rocket-launch: Ready to Contribute?**\n\n<div class=\"grid\" markdown>\n\n:material-account-plus:{ .lg }\n\n**Join the Project**\n\nBecome a Smartup Zero owner\n\n[Join via Open Collective :material-open-in-new:](https://opencollective.com/smartup-zero){ .md-button }\n\n:material-chat:{ .lg }\n\n**Start Discussing**\n\nConnect with the community\n\n[Enter Matrix Space :material-open-in-new:](#){ .md-button }\n\n:material-hammer:{ .lg }\n\n**Start Building**\n\nPick up your first task\n\n[Browse Open Tasks :material-open-in-new:](#){ .md-button }\n\n</div>\nRenders as:
Ready to Contribute?
Join the Project
Become a Smartup Zero owner
Join via Open Collective
Start Discussing
Connect with the community
Enter Matrix Space
Start Building
Pick up your first task
Browse Open Tasks
"},{"location":"style-guide/#writing-guidelines","title":"\ud83d\udcdd Writing Guidelines","text":""},{"location":"style-guide/#voice-tone","title":"Voice & Tone","text":" Inclusive: Always \"we\" not \"I\" or \"they\" Experimental: Acknowledge we're learning (\"we believe\", \"our hypothesis\") Transparent: Share both successes and challenges Accessible: Explain technical terms on first use "},{"location":"style-guide/#structure-guidelines","title":"Structure Guidelines","text":" Start with Why: Lead with purpose/problem before solution Show, Don't Just Tell: Use examples and diagrams Progressive Disclosure: Overview first, details in expandable sections Example Code:
** The Smartup Credit System\n\n**Why it exists:** We need a fair way to track and reward contributions before cash arrives.\n\n??? info \"How it works (Technical Details)\"\n When a contributor completes a task, the Team Captain approves it and \n Smartup Credits are minted to the ledger. These credits represent a \n future claim on treasury funds at a 1 SC = 1 EUR rate.\nRenders as:
The Smartup Credit System
Why it exists: We need a fair way to track and reward contributions before cash arrives.
How it works (Technical Details) When a contributor completes a task, the Team Captain approves it and Smartup Credits are minted to the ledger. These credits represent a future claim on treasury funds at a 1 SC = 1 EUR rate.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#common-phrases","title":"Common Phrases","text":"Use these standardized phrases:
\"Smartup Zero\" (not \"SmartUp\" or \"smartup\") \"Smartup Credits (SC)\" on first mention, then \"SC\" \"the experiment\" (lowercase when referring to our project) \"collective ownership/craftsmanship/governance\" (our three pillars) \"ONLIFE\" (all caps - it's an acronym) "},{"location":"style-guide/#component-library","title":"\ud83e\udde9 Component Library","text":""},{"location":"style-guide/#definition-boxes","title":"Definition Boxes","text":"Example Code:
!!! info \"Smartup\"\n A new organizational model based on collective ownership, collective \n craftsmanship, and collective governance.\nRenders as:
Smartup
A new organizational model based on collective ownership, collective craftsmanship, and collective governance.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#warning-boxes","title":"Warning Boxes","text":"Example Code:
!!! warning \"Experimental Phase\"\n This process is still being tested in our micro-pilot. \n Procedures may change based on learnings.\nRenders as:
Experimental Phase
This process is still being tested in our micro-pilot. Procedures may change based on learnings.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#example-boxes","title":"Example Boxes","text":"Example Code:
!!! example \"How This Works in Practice\"\n When a developer completes a task worth 500 SC, the Team Captain \n approves it, triggering an automatic ledger update via Engelbot.\nRenders as:
How This Works in Practice
When a developer completes a task worth 500 SC, the Team Captain approves it, triggering an automatic ledger update via Engelbot.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#quote-boxes","title":"Quote Boxes","text":"Example Code:
!!! quote \"Our Inscription\"\n We don't accept our reality but seek to alter it. We are not too late \n or too early but precisely on time. The next big thing will be a mosaic \n of small things.\nRenders as:
Our Inscription
We don't accept our reality but seek to alter it. We are not too late or too early but precisely on time. The next big thing will be a mosaic of small things.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#tabs-for-multiple-perspectives","title":"Tabs for Multiple Perspectives","text":"Example Code:
=== \":material-account: For Contributors\"\n\n Learn how to join the project and start earning Smartup Credits \n by contributing your skills to building ONLIFE.\n\n=== \":material-currency-eur: For Supporters\"\n\n Discover how your financial support directly enables the development \n of public-good technology with transparent fund allocation.\n\n=== \":material-cellphone: For Future Users\"\n\n Understand how ONLIFE will provide emergency communication when \n traditional networks fail.\nRenders as:
For Contributors For Supporters For Future Users Learn how to join the project and start earning Smartup Credits by contributing your skills to building ONLIFE.
Discover how your financial support directly enables the development of public-good technology with transparent fund allocation.
Understand how ONLIFE will provide emergency communication when traditional networks fail.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#expandable-details","title":"Expandable Details","text":"Example Code:
??? question \"What are Smartup Credits?\"\n\n Smartup Credits (SC) are internal units that track contributions \n before cash is available. 1 SC = 1 EUR claim on the treasury.\n\n??? tip \"Pro Tip: Claiming Your First Task\"\n\n Start with tasks labeled \"good-first-task\" in Forgejo. Comment \n on the issue to claim it before starting work.\nRenders as:
What are Smartup Credits? Smartup Credits (SC) are internal units that track contributions before cash is available. 1 SC = 1 EUR claim on the treasury.
Pro Tip: Claiming Your First Task Start with tasks labeled \"good-first-task\" in Forgejo. Comment on the issue to claim it before starting work.
"},{"location":"style-guide/#button-styles","title":"Button Styles","text":"Example Code:
[Primary Action :material-arrow-right:](#){ .md-button .md-button--primary }\n[Secondary Action](#){ .md-button }\n[Text Link with Icon :material-open-in-new:](#)\nRenders as:
Primary Action Secondary Action Text Link with Icon
"},{"location":"style-guide/#mermaid-diagrams","title":"Mermaid Diagrams","text":"Example Code:
```mermaid\ngraph TD\n A[Contributor] -->|Creates| B[Task]\n B -->|Completes| C[Review]\n C -->|Approves| D[SC Minted]\n D -->|Logged in| E[Ledger]\n```\nRenders as:
graph TD\n A[Contributor] -->|Creates| B[Task]\n B -->|Completes| C[Review]\n C -->|Approves| D[SC Minted]\n D -->|Logged in| E[Ledger]Example Code:
!!! abstract \"Micro-Pilot Progress\"\n :material-progress-check: **35% Complete**\n\n - [x] Infrastructure deployed\n - [x] Core team assembled\n - [ ] First work cycle\n - [ ] Binding vote held\nRenders as:
Micro-Pilot Progress
35% Complete
[x] Infrastructure deployed [x] Core team assembled [ ] First work cycle [ ] Binding vote held "},{"location":"style-guide/#technical-formatting","title":"\ud83d\udd27 Technical Formatting","text":""},{"location":"style-guide/#code-blocks","title":"Code Blocks","text":"Always specify language for syntax highlighting.
Example Code:
```python\ndef mint_credits(worker, amount):\n \"\"\"Mint Smartup Credits for completed work.\"\"\"\n return ledger.add_entry(worker, amount)\n```\nRenders as:
def mint_credits(worker, amount):\n \"\"\"Mint Smartup Credits for completed work.\"\"\"\n return ledger.add_entry(worker, amount)\nExample Code:
!!! example \"ledger.log\"\n ```json\n {\"type\": \"mint\", \"worker\": \"@alice\", \"amount\": 500, \"task\": \"#42\"}\n ```\nRenders as:
ledger.log
{\"type\": \"mint\", \"worker\": \"@alice\", \"amount\": 500, \"task\": \"#42\"}\nExample Code:
```console\n$ git clone https://smartup-zero-forgejo.fly.dev/smartup-zero/0_timeline.git\n$ cd 0_timeline\n$ mkdocs serve\nINFO - Building documentation...\nINFO - Documentation built in 2.43 seconds\n```\nRenders as:
$ git clone https://smartup-zero-forgejo.fly.dev/smartup-zero/0_timeline.git\n$ cd 0_timeline\n$ mkdocs serve\nINFO - Building documentation...\nINFO - Documentation built in 2.43 seconds\nExample Code:
| Component | Status | Notes |\n|-----------|--------|-------|\n| Matrix Server | :material-check-circle: Operational | 99.9% uptime |\n| Forgejo | :material-check-circle: Operational | v1.21.3 |\n| Engelbot | :material-progress-wrench: In Progress | v0.1 pending |\nRenders as:
Component Status Notes Matrix Server Operational 99.9% uptime Forgejo Operational v1.21.3 Engelbot In Progress v0.1 pending"},{"location":"style-guide/#linking-strategy","title":"\ud83c\udf10 Linking Strategy","text":""},{"location":"style-guide/#internal-links","title":"Internal Links","text":" Use relative paths: [Team Structure](../smartup-zero/3_teams.md) Link to sections: [Voting Process](1_general_forum.md#voting) "},{"location":"style-guide/#external-links","title":"External Links","text":" Always add icon: [Open Collective :material-open-in-new:](https://opencollective.com/smartup-zero) Use descriptive text, not \"click here\" "},{"location":"style-guide/#cross-references","title":"Cross-References","text":"Example Code:
!!! tip \"Related Topics\"\n - [The Smartup Model](../0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis.md)\n - [How to Contribute](../smartup-zero/2_workplace.md)\n - [Team Structure](../smartup-zero/3_teams.md)\nRenders as:
Related Topics
The Smartup Model How to Contribute Team Structure "},{"location":"style-guide/#checklist-for-new-pages","title":"\u2705 Checklist for New Pages","text":"Before publishing any new page, ensure:
[ ] Uses appropriate icon in title [ ] Has \"What is this?\" info box [ ] Follows voice & tone guidelines [ ] Includes at least one visual element (diagram, table, or card grid) [ ] Has clear CTAs if applicable [ ] Links to related content [ ] Uses consistent terminology [ ] Mobile-friendly (test grid layouts) "},{"location":"style-guide/#quick-start-template","title":"\ud83d\ude80 Quick Start Template","text":"Copy this template when creating new pages:
**:material-icon: Page Title\n\n!!! info \"What is this?\"\n One-sentence explanation of what this page covers.\n\n**Purpose**\n\nBrief paragraph explaining why this matters in the Smartup Zero context.\n\n**Main Content**\n\nYour content here, following the patterns above...\n\n**:material-rocket-launch: Next Steps**\n\nWhat the reader should do after reading this page.\n\n!!! tip \"Related Topics\"\n - [Related Page 1](link)\n - [Related Page 2](link)\nReady to Create Content!
Now you have all the patterns and examples needed to create consistent, beautiful content for 0_timeline. Remember to reference this guide whenever you're unsure about formatting or style choices.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/terminology/","title":"terminlogy being used:","text":"0_timeline The public-facing, static website and primary transparency layer for the Smartup Zero experiment. Automatically updates from the project\u2019s code and content repository to show the latest progress, business plan, team structure, open roles, and project documentation.
1_general_forum The \u201cGeneral Forum\u201d\u2014the digital public square for all Smartup owners (workers and watchers). This is where deliberation, voting, oversight, and key discussions occur. It\u2019s the central arena for governance, transparency, and measuring the organization\u2019s overall health.
2_workplace The central, private hub for all active \u201cworkers\u201d within the Smartup. This is where work happens, teams assemble, and objectives are executed. Only those with a Work License may participate; the Workplace is the engine room of creation and productivity.
3_teams Skill-based groups within the Workplace, such as Development, Design, Media, Business, Operations, or Science. Teams focus on implementing specific aspects of the project. Each team is led by a Team Captain and organizes its own Roles and Objectives.
4_roles Function-specific assignments within a Team (e.g., UX Designer, Backend Developer, Copywriter). Each Role has requirements, compensation logic, and defines what kind of tasks the member can claim or be assigned.
5_objectives Distinct missions, project deliverables, or \u201csprints\u201d that drive the Smartup forward. Each Objective is attached to a Team, can contain multiple Tasks, and is led by a Mission Leader responsible for coordination and quality.
6_tasks The atomic units of work in Smartup Zero. Tasks are clearly defined, trackable, and billable work items that contribute directly to achieving Objectives. Each Task has an assigned Worker (attacker), an Assistant (defender), and is supported by bots or automation (midfielder).
(The rest below is alphabetical, for completeness and consistency in all documentation):
ADM Triangle Attacker\u2013Defender\u2013Midfielder: The operational triad present in every group within the Smartup. The attacker initiates work or proposals, the defender reviews and provides oversight, and the midfielder (often a bot or automation) facilitates transparency and communication between roles.
Advisory Vote / Binding Vote Advisory votes are used for team-level or ambiguous decisions; binding votes are required for major milestones, phase transitions, or conflict resolution. Binding votes require a majority in the General Forum.
Book of Owners The transparent registry listing all official Smartup owners and their rights and privileges.
Business Team The group responsible for developing a solid business proposition, marketing strategies, financial planning, and ensuring the product or service is ready for market. In charge of the business and financial side of the Smartup, and of updating the Official Smartup Business Plan (OSBP).
Collective Craftsmanship A core Smartup value. Emphasizes that meaningful work and reward are distributed among all members based on contribution and merit, not hierarchy or tenure.
Collective Governance Democratic and transparent oversight of all Smartup operations, with formal processes for deliberation, voting, dispute resolution, and adaptation.
Collective IQ The enhanced problem-solving capability created when a group collaborates with transparency and shared purpose.
Collective Ownership Equal and inclusive ownership of the Smartup organization. Ownership is based on participation and willingness to contribute, not financial investment or seniority.
Crowdfunding Phases Funding rounds aligned with each major phase of Smartup creation. Each phase cannot progress to the next without meeting its designated funding target.
Design Team The group handling all design-related activities such as user experience (UX), interface, branding, wireframing, and prototyping. Responsible for the Design Blueprint and close cooperation with the Development Team and Science Team.
Development Team The technical heart of the Smartup. Builds and tests the core product or service, covering frontend, backend, security, architecture, and QA. Coordinates with Design, Science, and Operational Teams, and manages code versioning and repositories.
Isolated Human Doctrine A term describing the prevailing system in which technology platforms reinforce individualism and passive consumption, undermining collective action and responsibility.
Karma Points / Smartup Credits (SC) Karma Points are awarded for positive and constructive participation, teamwork, or peer review; these may be convertible to payouts. Smartup Credits (SC) are a tokenized internal currency (1 SC = 1 EUR claim on treasury funds), earned through completing tasks.
Leadership Team The decision-making and strategic core of a Smartup during creation phases, composed of all team captains and the initiating entrepreneur. This team orchestrates budgets, objectives, and major decisions while being accountable to the full community.
Media Team Ensures communication flows both inside the Smartup (internal reporting, progress updates) and outside (public relations, social media, storytelling). Produces engaging content to keep the community and backers informed.
Mission Leader A senior member appointed to maintain progress and oversight within a specific objective, assign tasks, and ensure quality of work.
Objectives Defined missions, focus areas, or sprints within the Teams structure; objectives break the organizational vision into actionable missions.
Observation The analytical foundation for Smartup Zero: the world is off track for the SDGs because collective action and problem-solving are obstructed by broken digital and organizational systems.
Official Smartup Business Plan (OSBP) A \u201cliving document\u201d that records strategy, key decisions, research, assessments, and design throughout all phases; accessible to all owners.
ONLIFE The first pilot project of Smartup Zero: a decentralized, emergency citizen mesh network prototype.
Operational Team Focuses on monitoring and improving processes between teams. Handles incident management, compliance, documentation, learning, and overall coordination, especially crucial for the first Smartup where learning is key.
Organization (Phase Four) The final phase of Smartup creation, in which the executive/operational structure is finalized, the business proposition is solidified, and the product or service is prepared for market launch.
Phases of Creation The four required stages for building a Smartup and its product or service: 1. Validation \u2013 Organize support, prove viability, reach the first funding target, and form coherent teams. 2. Design \u2013 Co-create blueprints and user experiences with scientific peer review and collective input. 3. Production \u2013 Build MVP/product, run beta tests, and refine based on review and feedback. 4. Organization \u2013 Establish operational structure, complete the final business plan, and prepare for launch.
Production (Phase Three) The phase in which the product or service is built, tested, and improved based on feedback and scientific review.
Roles Specific functional positions (e.g., Frontend Developer, UX Designer, Copywriter) within Teams; define both skill requirements and compensation rates.
Science Team Group responsible for independent scientific oversight and review, ensuring that all processes and outcomes align with sustainability best practices, evidence, and scalability. Holds power to request additional research or halt advancement if standards are not met.
Sociotechnical System (STS) An integrated approach to organizational design that balances social (human) and technical (infrastructural) factors for optimal collective performance and quality of life.
Smartup A new organizational model (the subject of Smartup Zero) designed to maximize democratic, scientific, and community-driven collaboration in creating technology for social and planetary benefit.
Smartup Constitution A codified document of learnings, rules, and governance logic, iteratively developed from the Smartup Zero experiment, designed to be adapted by future Smartups.
Smartup Credits (SC) Internal, auditable digital tokens or ledger entries, representing claimable value for contributors (1 SC = 1 EUR when funds are available in the treasury).
Smartup Metabolism Metaphor for the system of processes\u2014decision-making, feedback, payout, onboarding, and documentation\u2014that enable the Smartup to adapt, sustain itself, and grow.
Smartup Organism Metaphorical framing for the entire Smartup structure as a multi-layer, living system whose \u201corgans\u201d work together toward collective vitality and resilience.
Task The atomic unit of productive work. Clearly defined, assigned, and logged; completion triggers SC payouts and structured peer/advisor review.
Team A focused group of workers with a shared skillset, responsible for a domain such as Development, Design, Media, Business, Operations, or Science. Each team is led by a Team Captain and contains multiple Roles and Objectives.
Team Captain Elected leader within a given Team; manages roles, budgets, tasks, performance, and represents the team in the Leadership Team.
Validation (Phase One) The initial phase of building a Smartup: validating the concept, building community, securing funding, and operationalizing the vision.
Watch License / Work License A Watch License grants governance and observation rights within the Smartup, but not paid assignments. A Work License grants the full right to work, vote, and earn Smartup Credits.
Workplace The centralized collaborative production environment for all workers, where concurrent teamwork and objectives are managed.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/","title":"The Experiment","text":"What is this?
This is not mere theory. Smartup Zero is a real-time experiment in building a totally new kind of digital organization\u2014one designed from the ground up to fix the system misalignments holding back progress on the SDGs. Here we present the core architecture of a Smartup.
just give me the abstract The Smartup Hypothese is a set of rules, processes, workflows and tools that together form an operation system designed to have large group of people work together efficiently, transparant and mission-driven on tools that should help people drive the SDG\u2019s forward. In essence we are trying to build a better toolkit for future generations. The operation system is described below as a living oranganism. We\u2019ll dive in it\u2019s it\u2019s natural habitat, it\u2019s anatomy, it\u2019s metabolism and In a Smartup, \u201ccitizens\u201d work collaboratively and interchangeably on ideas that have the potential to break old paradigms and show new ways forward. It is an organization designed to create tools for people to work both on and within their communities.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#the-architecture-of-a-smartup","title":"The Architecture of a Smartup","text":"Definition: A Smartup creates trustworthy digital tools that help people\u2014and the communities they form\u2014become more resilient, resourceful, and effective in advancing the SDGs.
At its core, every Smartup is built like a rocket: a solid foundation, three structural pillars, and a sharp point of execution.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#the-foundation-our-fuel","title":"The Foundation (Our Fuel)","text":" Science: Every tool we create is grounded in facts, evidence, and tested knowledge. The problems we tackle are science-proven, and solutions must stand up to real-world scrutiny. Democracy: Our process and decisions are open and participatory. Everyone has a voice and a vote; no gated hierarchies, no closed rooms. Collective IQ: We are smarter together. All skills and ideas are pooled so we solve more, faster, and with better results than any one person or small group could alone. "},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#the-three-pillars-our-structure","title":"The Three Pillars (Our Structure)","text":" Collective Ownership Everyone who joins and contributes is an equal owner. There are no founders, investors, or external shareholders\u2014just people \"in it\" together. Collective Craftsmanship All work and effort are shared\u2014teams build, improve, and sustain everything the Smartup delivers. Value is earned by doing, not by owning capital. Collective Governance Decision-making and oversight are for everyone. Every contributor holds both rights and responsibilities for what the Smartup does and how it does it. "},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#the-nose-cone-our-edge","title":"The Nose Cone (Our Edge)","text":" Military Execution While we are democratic in nature, we are military in execution. When the General Forum sets a target, the Workplace hits it with precision. Clear chains of command, proven processes like the buddy system, and professional discipline ensure we don't just talk about change\u2014we deliver it. Why a rocket?
A Smartup is a vehicle for change. The foundation powers us, the pillars keep us stable, and military execution cuts through obstacles. Together, these elements create an organization that can actually reach its destination: a world where digital tools serve collective human needs.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#the-4-phases-of-creation-the-habitat-of-a-smartup","title":"The 4 Phases of Creation - The Habitat of a Smartup","text":"What is this?
Every Smartup grows through four clear, community-driven phases. This rhythm\u2014from first idea to real-world launch\u2014ensures that only validated, sustainable, and well-governed solutions reach the market. At every step, the decision to move forward belongs to the entire Smartup community.
Phase 1: Validation
The Question: \"Does the world needs this??\"
Entrepreneurs and early adopters rally a vibrant community around a solution, showing real traction in people and resources.
Thresholds to advance:
[ ] Financial target reached [ ] Official Smartup Business Plan ready [ ] Leadership Team formed [ ] Majority community vote Learn more
Phase 2: Design
The Question: \"How can we build this sustainably and efficiently?\"
Contributors create blueprints through open collaboration, with rigorous scientific review before development begins.
Thresholds to advance:
[ ] Financial target reached [ ] Design Blueprint delivered [ ] Science Team review passed [ ] Majority community vote Learn more
Phase 3: Production
The Focus: From thinking to building
The community creates an MVP, tests with real citizens, and prepares for launch after scientific and market validation.
Thresholds to advance:
[ ] Financial target reached [ ] Version 1.0 beta tested [ ] Market assessment complete [ ] Majority community vote Learn more
Phase 4: Organization
The Goal: Ready for the world
Build the team and structure for market launch. Executive team chosen, legal framework set, always with community validation.
Thresholds for launch:
[ ] Financial target reached [ ] Executive team formed [ ] Final Business Plan ready [ ] Majority community vote Learn more
The Common Thread
Notice how each phase requires four key elements:
Financial sustainability - Resources to continue Concrete deliverable - Something tangible produced Expert validation - Scientific or market review Democratic approval - The community decides This ensures what's being built is wanted, sound, and fully owned by the community at every step.
flowchart LR\n V[\ud83d\udd0d Validation<br/><sub>Prove demand</sub>]\n D[\ud83d\udcd0 Design<br/><sub>Create blueprint</sub>]\n P[\ud83d\udd28 Production<br/><sub>Build & test</sub>]\n O[\ud83d\ude80 Organization<br/><sub>Launch ready</sub>]\n\n V -.->|Community Vote| D\n D -.->|Community Vote| P\n P -.->|Community Vote| O\n O ==>|To Market!| M[\ud83c\udf0d]\n\n style V stroke:#ffd23f,stroke-width:3px\n style D stroke:#ffd23f,stroke-width:3px\n style P stroke:#ffd23f,stroke-width:3px\n style O stroke:#ffd23f,stroke-width:3px\n style M stroke:#8bc34a,stroke-width:3pxWhy these phases?
Each phase ensures what\u2019s being built is wanted, sound, and fully owned by the community before advancing. Built-in checkpoints\u2014majority votes and scientific reviews\u2014keep momentum aligned with trust and quality at every step.
Next: See how Smartup teams, roles, and workflows make collective building a reality.
Continue to Anatomy & Workflows
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#the-smartup-organism","title":"The Smartup Organism","text":"What is this?
To create real, relevant technology, a Smartup can\u2019t just be a loose network\u2014it needs to be a productive, living system. But if nobody has absolute power\u2014not even a CEO\u2014how do decisions get made and meaningful work actually happen? The answer: the Smartup is a new kind of \u201corganism\u201d built for collective intelligence and self-organization.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#democratic-by-nature-military-in-execution","title":"Democratic by Nature, Military in Execution","text":"A Smartup is a unique sociotechnical organism that combines democratic governance with military-precision execution. This hybrid design solves a fundamental challenge: how to maintain collective ownership while actually getting things done.
The Design Principle
We are democratic where it matters most: In the General Forum, every citizen has equal voice, equal vote, equal responsibility. Here we decide WHAT we build and WHY\u2014our mission, values, and strategic direction.
We are disciplined where speed matters: In the Workplace, we apply military-inspired command structures and proven operational processes. Here we decide HOW we build\u2014with clear roles, accountability, and chains of command.
Learning from Failed Models
Pure Democracy Everywhere = Endless debates, nothing ships Pure Hierarchy Everywhere = Mission drift, worker alienation Our Hybrid = Collective ownership + Professional execution
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#smartup-anatomy","title":"Smartup Anatomy","text":"If you could slice a Smartup open, you\u2019d see something that looks more like a living ecosystem than a traditional corporate pyramid. Instead of strict hierarchy and top-down control, power and responsibility are distributed through a holacratic structure: nested groups, each supporting the whole.
\u201cHolacracy is a new way of structuring and running your organization that replaces the conventional management hierarchy. Instead of top-down, power is distributed throughout, giving individuals and teams more freedom to self-manage, while staying aligned to the organization\u2019s purpose.\u201d \u2014 holacracy.org
In a Smartup, these circles are groups\u2014each one crucial for the whole, each one depending on\u2014and empowering\u2014the next.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#the-six-groups-of-productivity","title":"The Six Groups of Productivity","text":"A Smartup is designed so that all ownership, work, and governance flow through six nested groups. Think of them as a set of Russian dolls: each group contains smaller subgroups, but all belong to the \u201cmother\u201d at the center, the General Forum.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#1-general-forum","title":"1. General Forum","text":"The heart of the Smartup. All citizens (owners) gather here to discuss, propose, vote, and oversee everything. It\u2019s the public square for collective direction, accountability, and signals of community health.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#2-workplace","title":"2. Workplace","text":"The production engine. Citizens with a work license join the Workplace to build what matters. Here, talk turns into action: plans become teams, teams build real things.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#3-teams","title":"3. Teams","text":"Home base for specialized work. Every worker is on at least one team\u2014like design, development, or business. Teams focus effort and harness specific skills toward shared goals.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#4-roles","title":"4. Roles","text":"How you contribute. In each team, citizens apply for roles that fit their talents\u2014UX designer, developer, communicator, and more. Roles define responsibility and open access to key projects.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#5-objectives","title":"5. Objectives","text":"What\u2019s to be achieved. Teams and roles progress by setting and accomplishing objectives\u2014specific outcomes or missions, like \u201cCreate the Android app front-end.\u201d Each objective may need several roles.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-experiment/#6-tasks","title":"6. Tasks","text":"The smallest\u2014and most important\u2014unit. Tasks are where real, measurable progress happens. Each one gets done by a worker (or workers), supported by an assistant, and tracked by a bot. Do the task, contribute value, get rewarded\u2014the building blocks of a productive Smartup.
Why this structure?
By distributing power and responsibility through these six groups, a Smartup stays productive, resilient, and transparent\u2014even as it grows. No single person or \u201cboss\u201d controls the system; instead, everyone is a citizen, worker, and caretaker. The system itself keeps everything aligned and moving forward.
Continue to the Metabolism (ADM Triangle)
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/","title":"The Observation","text":""},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#observation","title":"Observation","text":"What is this?
This page documents, through a sociotechnical lens, what the 2025 UN SDG Progress Report demonstrates about the state of global development systems. We observe\u2014not prescribe\u2014where and how deep misalignments persist between people, technology, and larger structures.
I just want the abstract This Observation page documents a rigorous, up-to-date account of global progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the lens of sociotechnical systems theory. Drawing directly from the 2025 United Nations SDG Progress Report, we assemble evidence that confirms a troubling reality: while knowledge, innovation, and digital infrastructure have all advanced, structural misalignments persist between our social behaviors, technical systems, and external incentives. These misalignments\u2014identified as social, technical, and external subsystems\u2014are at the heart of why collective action on urgent global challenges continues to fall short. Here, we reference authoritative data and expert analysis, not to propose solutions, but to precisely clarify where the current system fails and why a new approach is urgently required. This scientific baseline serves as the foundation for the hypotheses and experiments developed on subsequent pages.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#sdg-progress-the-world-at-an-inflection-point","title":"SDG Progress \u2013 The World at an Inflection Point","text":"United Nations SDG Report 2025
\u201cThe world remains far off track from achieving the 2030 Agenda. Of the 169 SDG targets, only 35% show adequate progress\u201418% are on track, 17% making moderate progress. In contrast, 48% show insufficient progress, and 18% of targets have regressed below 2015 baseline levels.\u201d
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#our-methoda-sociotechnical-lens","title":"Our Method\u2014A Sociotechnical Lens","text":"What is Sociotechnical Theory?
\u201cSociotechnical theory is about joint optimization: designing systems where technical performance and human wellbeing are advanced together. It focuses on how social behaviors interact with technology, shaping both productivity and the quality of our collective work lives.\u201d \u2014 Wikipedia: Sociotechnical Systems
\u201cOriginally, computing focused on hardware, then software, then human-computer interaction, and now\u2014at the level of sociotechnical systems\u2014it considers how whole communities work through technology.\u201d \u2014 The Interaction Design Foundation, STS
\u201cA community works through people using technology.\u201d
In this spirit, our observations are grounded in the science of sociotechnical systems:
We ask: Where do our social, technical, and external systems align or misalign with collective wellbeing and progress? We observe: Not just individuals with tools, but communities and societies\u2014working, failing, or succeeding together, by and through their technologies.
graph TD\n SS[**Social Subsystem**<br/><sub>Attributes of people -skills, attitudes, values-, relationships, reward systems, authority</sub>]\n TS[**Technical Subsystem**<br/><sub>Processes, tasks, technology for transforming inputs to outputs</sub>]\n ES[**External Subsystem**<br/><sub>Outside influences, stakeholders, partnering perspectives</sub>]\n SS -- \"Work System Design\" --- JO[**Joint Optimization**]\n TS -- \"Work System Design\" --- JO\n ES -- \"Pulls/Influences\" --> JOAs we become more connected and more informed about the thousands of challenges facing humanity, we can\u2019t help but notice a painful truth: despite our awareness, nothing we do as individuals seems to move the needle. Decades after the Club of Rome\u2019s \u2018Limits to Growth\u2019 warned us about the risks of unchecked development, growing awareness about the links between society and our natural world still hasn\u2019t triggered fundamental shifts in how we organize ourselves.
We measure more, know more, and have greater access to scientific insight than ever before. Yet, remarkably few of us are actually working on real solutions to real problems. Instead, we find ourselves trapped in a paradox: the better we get at calculating and exposing the effects of our culture on nature, the less agency we feel to change the course we\u2019re on.
We\u2019re overwhelmed, not just by the data and complexity, but by a constant barrage of conflicting information, misinformation, and cultural warfare\u2014conditions that make genuine collaboration and action feel impossible. It\u2019s as if the systems around us are designed to keep us running in place, growing tired, but never reaching meaningful progress.
Deep down, we recognize ourselves in this paradox. We are the hamsters, running tirelessly on wheels built by economies and power structures that benefit from our distraction and confusion. This is the central issue we need to name and break: the system that keeps us moving, but rarely moving forward.
UN Confirmation
\u201cPersistent inequalities continue to limit human potential... The broader context is increasingly complex. Climate change continues to accelerate... A $4 trillion annual financing gap constrains development progress.\"
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#what-we-observe","title":"What We Observe:","text":" Routines and incentive systems keep individuals in cycles that reinforce, not repair, the global crises. Those most threatened by these risks are generally excluded from shaping system-level responses. "},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#technical-subsystem-fault-the-isolated-human-doctrine","title":"Technical Subsystem Fault \u2014 The Isolated Human Doctrine","text":"When we look honestly at the world\u2019s urgent challenges, it\u2019s not just their complexity that weighs on us\u2014it\u2019s the shape our own societies are in to overcome them. We find ourselves divided, distracted, and often addicted to digital habits, while the most powerful organizations on earth benefit from keeping us apart. Increasingly, our technology is designed to isolate us\u2014as users, as consumers, not as collaborators or citizens. This is what we call the isolated human doctrine.
This doctrine does more than make us passive\u2014it also convinces us to wait for someone else to solve the crisis. We\u2019re conditioned to look to governments, powerful leaders, or brands to invent our way out of these problems. But the truth is, they won\u2019t. Deep down, we know we need to step up\u2014not as lone heroes, but as people who are a bit more organized, a bit more connected, and united by purpose.
We\u2019ve been told a better world starts with \u201cfixing yourself.\u201d If we face these challenges alone, everything feels too big to tackle. But if we face them together, maybe\u2014just maybe\u2014they become possible.
UN Confirmation
\u201cProgress has been deeply inadequate. This reflects... a fundamental problem in how we measure, monitor and respond to global development needs... Statistical systems remain chronically underfunded\u2014treated as technical afterthoughts.\u201d
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#what-we-observe_1","title":"What We Observe:","text":" The explosion of data and connectivity isn\u2019t translating into collective agency or action. Citizens are \u201cusers\u201d rather than full contributors. Siloed data, vulnerable infrastructure, and lack of trust persist\u2014especially for the most vital SDGs. graph LR\n subgraph Technical Subsystem\n D[Digital Growth] --> E(Increased Data)\n E --> F(\"Trust & Feedback Gaps\")\n F -->|Missed SDGs| G[Collective Inaction]\n endWe feel a growing sense of urgency as we watch our grip on the world slip away\u2014just when we need clarity and collective strength the most. The explosion of digital content and internet access was supposed to empower us. It did make knowledge more available than ever. Now, everyone can publish, create, and share at the speed of thought.
But all this information hasn\u2019t brought us together\u2014it\u2019s become a battleground for the agendas of corporations and political powers. Instead of uniting us, today\u2019s internet is often used to distract, confuse, and divide. Powerful interests, not people, steer the flow of content and shape what we believe.
Somehow, we have let this happen: the internet\u2019s promise hijacked by those who profit from division and distraction, instead of fostering the collaboration we urgently need. There\u2019s no single cause, but the result is clear\u2014a system that floods us with information, but makes meaningful, collective change harder than ever.
UN Confirmation
\u201cFunding for global data... remains heavily dependent on a small group of major funders... The fragility of data financing is well-illustrated after abrupt termination of funding... which now threatens the production of critical data needed to monitor progress on multiple SDG indicators.\u201d
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#what-we-observe_2","title":"What We Observe:","text":" Funding, priorities, and risk tolerance sit outside the collective, subject to abrupt reversals. Systemic dependence leads to fragility and volatility in critical development data and solutions. flowchart TD\n SDG[Global SDG Targets\\nfalling short]\n subgraph Social\n A[Hamsters in the Wheel]\n end\n subgraph Technical\n B[Isolated Human Doctrine]\n end\n subgraph External\n C[Distorted Incentives]\n end\n SDG --> A\n SDG --> B\n SDG --> C\n A -- \"Traps talent & solidarity\"\\n(inequality, exclusion) --> A1[Low collective action]\n B -- \"Optimizes for reporting & consumption,\\nnot participatory agency\" --> B1[Fragile and siloed data systems]\n C -- \"Short-term, external \\(and boom-bust\\) priorities\" --> C1[Funding shocks, stalling progress]Shared Analysis
\u201cThe challenges we face are inherently global and interconnected. No country... can address climate change, pandemic preparedness or inequality alone. ...Sustainable development is not a zero-sum game, but a shared endeavour that benefits all.\u201d
\u2014 UN SDG Progress Report 2025, Call for renewed multilateralism
Our Scientific Take: The 2025 SDG Progress Report confirms what systems theorists have observed for years: - Global stalling isn\u2019t due to ignorance or lack of effort, but structural misalignment\u2014across social, technical, and external (funding/governance) systems. - As long as these systems remain fragmented or externally steered, collective progress will remain slow, fragile, and easily reversed.
Continue to the Hypothesis
References: - The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2025 (PDF, unstats.un.org)
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-observation/#ready-to-contribute","title":"Ready to Contribute?","text":"Join the Project
Become a Smartup Zero owner
Join via Open Collective
Start Discussing
Connect with the community
Enter Matrix Space
Start Building
Pick up your first task
Browse Open Tasks
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis/","title":"Hypothesis","text":"What is this?
This section sets out our core scientific and practical hypothesis for Smartup Zero. Instead of patching old systems, we propose re-engineering the way technology is built, owned, and governed\u2014creating a new \u201cspecies\u201d of organization that can address the failures confirmed by both the latest SDG report and sociotechnical theory.
I just want to see the abstract This page sets out the core hypothesis behind Smartup Zero. Building on our observations\u2014and the latest evidence from the UN\u2019s SDG report\u2014we believe the current way technology is created, owned, and governed keeps us from making real progress on urgent global challenges. Our hypothesis: If we redesign digital organizations\u2014so that ownership, contribution, and decision-making are collective, transparent, and grounded in science\u2014then we can finally create the digital toolset and community power needed to reach our shared goals. This page breaks down how we think these system shifts must happen, subsystem by subsystem.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis/#core-hypothesis","title":"Core Hypothesis","text":"Our world is missing its SDG targets not for lack of effort, ideas, or technical skill\u2014but because the systems we use to build, fund, and govern technology are fundamentally misaligned with collective needs.
Startups, NGOs, and even open source teams generally follow a logic that prioritizes shareholders, siloed expertise, or short-term results. These familiar models cannot fix our biggest problems at their roots.
We need a new kind of digital institution\u2014a true sociotechnical \u201corganism,\u201d designed from the ground up so that collective action is easy, meaningful, and sustainable.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis/#1-adjustment-to-the-social-subsystem","title":"1. Adjustment to the Social Subsystem","text":"Today, ownership and power over technology live with founders and shareholders\u2014not the people who use and build it. Most people are locked out of real decision-making, or can only \u201chelp\u201d on the side.
Our hypothesis: If we move from shareholder-owned technology to people-owned technology, then joining, contributing, earning, and governing become accessible to all. Participating in positive change becomes a \u201cday job,\u201d not an afterthought.
In Practice
In a Smartup, all contributors\u2014no matter their background\u2014can own, shape, and steer the direction of projects together.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis/#2-adjustment-to-the-technical-subsystem","title":"2. Adjustment to the Technical Subsystem","text":"The mainstream model of digital design treats people as isolated \u201cusers.\u201d Our tools are engineered for personal consumption or individual productivity\u2014not for communities trying to solve big problems together.
Our hypothesis: If we explicitly design technology for citizen groups\u2014drawing on the lessons of Douglas Engelbart and others\u2014then our collective intelligence and ability to take coordinated action will accelerate. \u201cSmartup tech is built for groups to collaborate, deliberate, and act as one.\u201d
Inspiration
\u201cThe real breakthrough comes when technology supports groups solving problems together.\u201d \u2014 Douglas Engelbart (paraphrased)
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis/#3-adjustment-to-the-external-subsystem","title":"3. Adjustment to the External Subsystem","text":"Traditional organizations\u2014corporations, governments, even many NGOs\u2014depend on closed funding streams, proprietary platforms, and top-down decision-making. These systems are vulnerable to external shocks and often shaped by priorities at odds with public value.
Our hypothesis: If we shift to decentralized, open funding (via crowdfunding, community partnerships, and open-source collaboration), then technology projects can remain truly accountable and resilient\u2014serving society, not distant investors or powerbrokers.
Mechanism
Smartup Zero is structured so that funding, data, and decision rights are distributed and transparent\u2014not captured by single entities or platforms.
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis/#blueprint-for-a-new-kind-of-organization","title":"Blueprint for a New Kind of Organization","text":"In summary: To realign our systems with societal and planetary needs, we hypothesize that a new kind of organization\u2014one that rewires ownership, technical design, and external relationships\u2014can transform collective intent into real progress.
What's Next?
The next section documents how we are testing these hypotheses through the Smartup Zero experiment, step by step.
Dive into the Smartup Blueprint
"},{"location":"0_timeline/the-smartup-hypothesis/#ready-to-contribute","title":"Ready to Contribute?","text":"Join the Project
Become a Smartup Zero owner
Join via Open Collective
Start Discussing
Connect with the community
Enter Matrix Space
Start Building
Pick up your first task
Browse Open Tasks
"},{"location":"_snippets/0_timeline/","title":"0 timeline","text":"0_timeline The space where Smartups are designed, tested, and documented\u2014in public. All progress is shared here, step by step.
"},{"location":"_snippets/join-cta/","title":"Join cta","text":""},{"location":"_snippets/join-cta/#ready-to-contribute","title":"Ready to Contribute?","text":"Join the Project
Become a Smartup Zero owner
Join via Open Collective
Start Discussing
Connect with the community
Enter Matrix Space
Start Building
Pick up your first task
Browse Open Tasks
"},{"location":"_snippets/onlife/","title":"Onlife","text":"markdown
ONLIFE The actual technology we're building: A decentralized emergency network for European citizen resilience.
"},{"location":"_snippets/phase-indicator/","title":"Phase indicator","text":"Phase Status
Status: Active Duration: 30 days Started: January 1, 2025 Target End: January 31, 2025
"},{"location":"_snippets/readme/","title":"Readme","text":"status card: This snippet can be included in any page using:
Completed
[Description of completed item]
View details
In Progress
[Description of in-progress item]
Track progress
Planned
[Description of planned item]
See roadmap
"},{"location":"_snippets/sdg-grid/","title":"Sdg grid","text":""},{"location":"_snippets/smartup-zero/","title":"Smartup zero","text":"Smartup Zero Our first live experiment. Testing the Smartup model in real time. Failures and successes are both part of the process.
"},{"location":"_snippets/smartup/","title":"Smartup","text":"Smartup A new hypothesis: What if building technology worked more like a scientific experiment? Community-owned. Transparent. Measured.
"},{"location":"_snippets/status-card/","title":"Status card","text":" Completed
[Description of completed item]
View details
In Progress
[Description of in-progress item]
Track progress
Planned
[Description of planned item]
See roadmap
"},{"location":"_snippets/team-card/","title":"Team card","text":""},{"location":"_snippets/team-card/#team-name","title":"Team Name","text":"Quick Links
Repos Chat Tasks
Captain: @username Members: 5 active Mission: One-line mission statement
Current Focus: - Current objective 1 - Current objective 2
"},{"location":"_templates/","title":"\ud83d\udccb Smartup Zero Content Templates","text":"This directory contains templates for common page types. Using these templates ensures consistency across all documentation.
"},{"location":"_templates/#available-templates","title":"Available Templates","text":""},{"location":"_templates/#phase-pagemd","title":"\ud83d\udcc5 phase-page.md","text":"Use this template when documenting project phases.
Usage: ```bash cp docs/_templates/phase-page.md docs/0_timeline/phases/phase-0-micropilot.md
"},{"location":"_templates/#then-edit-to-fill-in-the-placeholders","title":"Then edit to fill in the [placeholders]","text":"When to use:
Documenting any of the 4 phases (Validation, Design, Production, Organization) Creating phase-specific status pages Planning future phases How to Use Templates Copy the template to your target location Replace all [placeholder] text with actual content Remove any sections that aren't relevant Follow the style guide for formatting Creating New Templates When creating new templates:
Use clear placeholders in [Square Brackets] Include all standard components from the style guide Add usage instructions to this README Test the template by creating a sample page
"},{"location":"_templates/page-template/","title":":material-icon: Page Title","text":"What is this?
One-sentence explanation of what this page covers.
"},{"location":"_templates/page-template/#purpose","title":"Purpose","text":"Brief paragraph explaining why this matters in the Smartup Zero context.
"},{"location":"_templates/page-template/#main-content","title":"Main Content","text":"Your content here...
"},{"location":"_templates/page-template/#next-steps","title":"Next Steps","text":"What the reader should do after reading this page.
Related Topics
Related Page 1 Related Page 2 "},{"location":"_templates/phase-page/","title":":material-numeric-[X]-circle: Phase [Number]: [Phase Name]","text":"What is this?
This page documents Phase [Number] of the Smartup Zero experiment, including goals, timeline, and deliverables.
"},{"location":"_templates/phase-page/#overview","title":"Overview","text":"Phase Status
Status: [Not Started/Active/Complete] Duration: [X] days Started: [Date or TBD] Target End: [Date or TBD] Actual End: [Date or TBD]
[Brief description of what this phase is about and why it's important]
"},{"location":"_templates/phase-page/#goals-success-criteria","title":"Goals & Success Criteria","text":""},{"location":"_templates/phase-page/#primary-goals","title":"Primary Goals","text":""},{"location":"_templates/phase-page/#deliverables","title":"Deliverables","text":"Deliverable Description Owner Status [Name] [What it is] @team/person Done [Name] [What it is] @team/person In Progress [Name] [What it is] @team/person Planned"},{"location":"_templates/phase-page/#timeline","title":"Timeline","text":"```mermaid gantt title Phase [Number] Timeline dateFormat YYYY-MM-DD section Preparation [Task 1] :2025-01-01, 7d section Development [Task 2] :7d [Task 3] :7d section Review [Task 4] :3d Budget & Resources Financial Requirements Target Funding: \u20ac[Amount] Raised: \u20ac[Amount] Burn Rate: \u20ac[Amount]/month Human Resources Contributors Needed: [Number] Current Team Size: [Number] Key Roles to Fill: [List] Key Decisions & Gates
Phase Gate Requirements
Before proceeding to the next phase, we must:
text 1. Achieve financial target of \u20ac[Amount] 2. Complete all primary deliverables 3. Pass scientific review (if applicable) 4. Hold binding vote to proceed Lessons Learned
Insights from this phase Document key learnings as the phase progresses:
text - What worked well - What didn't work - What we'd do differently - Recommendations for future phases
Related Documents Previous Phase Next Phase Overall Experiment Project Timeline
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