As mentioned previously in this thread, details of fundraising are typically discussed *after* a proper estimate is developed.
If this is a serious discussion (which I believe it is) then the following actions are up next:
1. Identify the programmers, testers, documenters and users who will participate. (Participants can assume multiple roles)
2. The programmers collaborate to create & share the requirements and constraints
3. The testers specify & share the testing and signoff requirements, based on output of #2
4. All participants specify documentation requirements to meet needs of both the users and the future developers/maintainers
5. Estimate the cost & delivery schedule
6. Design the fundraising campaign (which is another separate effort)
if you're going to raise funds from the public then you can't be code cowboys about this, no matter if you believe this is a relatively small effort.
Performing the above steps and publishing the results helps build momentum for public monetary support and creates tremendous public confidence.
it also gives the tech media something to report regularly building up to the fundraising start date. Use the machine wisely, publicity never hurts!
Assuming that remote collaboration results require more time than face-to-face sprints, we can shoot for 30 to 60 days for #1-5, 30 days maximum for #6, so max 90 days till fundraising.
My skills aren't in programming, but if you would like me to I can help with project development & fundraising. If there are others more connected to Inkscape than I who would like to step up for this work, please do!
- Susan