Challenge Overview
Using the TopCoder platform and leveraging copilots it's currently possible for any TopCoder client to build pretty much any kind of software they want. TopCoder and the TopCoder community have worked hard to get the platform to its currently level of maturity, but we're far from done. It's time to take the platform to the next level...
The idea behind TopCoder Labs (TC Labs) is to open up the platform to allow companies (and possibly individuals) to leverage the TopCoder platform and community to build their application, and to have the members who worked on the application SHARE in the value generated by that application. For a client, it means the ability to build an application with a minimal up-front investment. For members it means moving beyond simple monetary prizes for their work, and optionally giving up the immediate monetary compensation in return for a potentially bigger upside. After the application is completed, TopCoder will be involved in the application's lifecycle to the degree necessary for tracking generated revenue (or other forms of value created). TopCoder will then pay members who worked on that application proportionally to their contribution. This is analogous to what TopCoder already does with royalties on generic components, but in this case applied to an entire application. TopCoder, in providing the platform and subsequent revenue management, will also take a portion of the revenue sharing.
Full Specification: http://apps.topcoder.com/wiki/display/docs/TopCoder+Labs+Conceptualization
Final Submission Guidelines
Full Specification: http://apps.topcoder.com/wiki/display/docs/TopCoder+Labs+Conceptualization