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Zen Roadmap

Comprehensive cost analysis for the MVP build phase, comparing different sourcing models and regional cost variations.

Lowest Cost Option

BOT (Offshore)

$6.6M

4-month total

Recommended Option

BOT (Nearshore)

$10.3M

4-month total

Highest Cost Option

In-house (US/UK)

$26.5M

4-month total

4-Month Cost Comparison (MVP Build)
$0M$20M$40M$70MBOT (Nearshore)BOT (Offshore)In-house (US/UK)In-house (EU)Outsource(Eastern EU)Outsource(India/SEA)
Detailed Cost Breakdown
Sourcing ModelRegionMonthly Cost4-Month TotalStatus
BOT (Nearshore)Recommended
Eastern Europe
$2.6M$10.3MViable
BOT (Offshore)Lowest
India/SEA
$1.7M$6.6MViable
In-house (US/UK)
United States/United Kingdom
$6.6M$26.5MNot Recommended
In-house (EU)
Western Europe
$4.4M$17.7MNot Recommended
Outsource (Eastern EU)
Eastern Europe
$2.9M$11.8MConditional
Outsource (India/SEA)
India/Southeast Asia
$1.8M$7.4MConditional

* Costs are estimates based on ~370 FTEs for MVP build. Additional costs for infrastructure, licensing, legal, and marketing are not included.

Recommended Hybrid Sourcing Model

Allocate different components to the most suitable sourcing model for optimal cost-effectiveness and quality.

Core Platform

Exchange Engine, Atlas Rails, Security, Blockchain Layer

Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT)
Core strategic assets requiring full ownership and IP control

Frontend & Mobile Apps

Web UI, iOS/Android Applications

Specialized Outsourcing Firm
Specialized field ensuring world-class UX and faster development

AI & ML Features

Smart Routing, Risk Lens, Analytics

Niche AI/Fintech Consultancy
Highly specialized talent with proven fintech AI track record

Third-Party Integrations

KYC, Custody, Market Data

Direct Licensing & Integration
Leverage best-in-class solutions (Fireblocks, Chainalysis)

Potential Savings

By choosing the BOT (Nearshore) model over in-house US/UK hiring, you can save approximately:

$16.2M

Over the 4-month MVP build period