We are currently in Stage 1 of the development process, which is being funded by a grant from the Foundation for Endangered Languages. Here are the details of what we will accomplish in each stage.

Stage 1: the “Functionality” stage

Upon completion of this stage, the software will have all of its basic functionality, meaning that projects will be able to begin using it to compile and edit their dictionaries. The key features of Stage 1 are:

• Software designed according to best practices and in such a way as to lay the groundwork for functionality through Stage 3.
• Correctly-designed and efficient database structures
• Optimized and correctly documented coding
• User Management and Role-based Access
• Duplicate checks for entries
• a Change Log as entries are entered and edited
• Site Security (protection against malicious activity online)

Stage 2: the “Where we want to get” stage

Upon completion of this stage, the software will have enough functionality to accomodate most language projects. The key features of Stage 2 are:

• Search Engine Optimization
• A complete Manual for use of the software
• Version documentation on Github
• Multi-project capacity
• a "Voting" System for approval of entries
• a Task List for users
• Bulk Entry (from a CSV file)
• Bulk Entry (forms for entering wordlists, such as Swadesh, or forms such as a Rapid Word Collection questionnaire)
• Dynamic Ordering (drag and drop headwords and senses to order them)
• automatic Resizing of images to optimal sizes
• Sharing on social media of individual entries

We also look forward to the software being ìput to useî on the field, so that we can benefit from suggestions and comments on how to improve along the way.

Stage 3: the “Bells and Whistles” stage

Upon completion of this stage, the software will have the extra features that we foresee most projects will desire. The key features of Stage 3 are:

• Public commenting on dictionary entries
• Bulk Entry (with Excel spreadsheet)
• Exporting to common file formats (such as LIFT)
• MOD_REWRITE for easier URL's
• Submission of suggestions through Facebook Messenger or SMS
• Automatic quality checks on submitted suggestions
• Translation of software into multiple languages
• Bulk Editing

Funding

The strategy for funding relies on the successful completion of each stage. Having Stage 1 completed, with the help of the Foundation for Endangered Languages, will assist us in obtaining a grant to complete Stage 2, and then Stage 3, and then constant improvement from that point forward. If you are interested in assisting us in paying for the development, please contact us!