Proof of Usefulness Report

KOAN

Analysis completed on 2/28/2026

+586
Proof of Usefulness Score
Industry Mainstay

KOAN Software is a highly established (founded 1996) and technically capable embedded engineering firm in Italy, recently acquired by Abinsula (April 2025). The project demonstrates exceptional longevity and technical expertise in the Yocto/Linux domain. However, the submission quality is low, containing vague claims ('everyone', 'most people') and confusing metrics ('all time marketcap'). Despite the lazy submission data, the verifiable real-world utility and 30-year track record drive a high usefulness score.

Ready to Compete for $150k+ in Prizes?

Move this data into a HackerNoon blog draft to become eligible for your share of $150k+ in cash and software prizes

View All Reports

Score Breakdown

Real World Utility+225.0
Audience Reach Impact+64.0
Technical Innovation+127.5
Evidence Of Traction+160.0
Market Timing Relevance+60.0
Functional Completeness+7.5
Subtotal+644
Usefulness Multiplierx0.91
Final Score+586

Project Details

Project URL
koansoftware.com
Description
KOAN is an embedded software engineering which specialises in the development of device drivers, board support packages and embedded software. KOAN also supports its customers with services for Embedded Linux. The target markets are Industrial Automation, Automotive, Consumer Electronic, Network Infrastructure and Aerospace & Defense. KOAN was estabilished on 1996 and is one of the first companies in Italy providing professional embedded software and services for industrial customers. KOAN supports customers with OS porting, driver development and application software engineering and with on-site courses, enabling them to quickstart embedded Linux projects. Our staff is composed by internal employees and a small worldwide network of highly skilled consultants. We specialize in embedded system integration and embedded software development, with a focus on the following topics: * OpenEmbedded development and training * Yocto project development and training * System Integration * Cross Platform Software Development and Porting * Real Time * Kernel Device Drivers * X11 and Graphic Drivers * wxWidgets contribution and development *Qt development * User Space Drivers * Embedded Systems

Algorithm Insights

Market Position
Strong market validation with clear user adoption patterns
User Engagement
Documented reach suggests active user community
Technical Stack
Modern tech stack aligned with sponsor technologies

Recommendations to Increase Usefulness Score

Document User Growth

Provide specific metrics on user acquisition and retention rates

Showcase Revenue Model

Detail sustainable monetization strategy and current revenue streams

Expand Evidence Base

Include testimonials, case studies, and third-party validation

Technical Roadmap

Share development milestones and feature completion timeline