Phase 2: Design and Architecture

1. Technical Architecture Design (1 month)

• Define backend architecture (e.g., blockchain interaction, APIs).
• Plan for scalability and fault tolerance.

2. User Interface and Experience Design (1 month)

• Create wireframes and prototypes for user and merchant portals.
• Design a mobile-friendly interface.

Phase 3: Development

1. Core Development (4-6 months)

• Develop backend with blockchain integration.
• Build wallet functionalities (receive, store, and transfer funds).
• Implement payment processing APIs for merchants.
• Add real-time exchange rate APIs.

2. Security Implementation (2-3 months)

• Encrypt data and transactions.
• Implement multi-signature wallets and secure APIs.
• Conduct penetration testing.

3. User and Merchant Portals (2-3 months)

• Develop dashboards, transaction history, balance management with reporting.
• Include withdrawal and settlement options for merchants.

Phase 4: Testing

1. Alpha Testing (1 month)

• Conduct internal testing for functionality, security, and performance.

2. Beta Testing (1-2 months)

• Release the gateway to a limited group of users and merchants.
• Gather feedback and resolve issues.

3. Smart Contract Audits (2-3 weeks, if applicable)

• Perform audits of smart contracts to ensure security and reliability.

Phase 5: Deployment

1. Initial Launch (1 month)

• Launch the gateway for early adopters.
• Provide documentation and tutorials for users and merchants.

2. Marketing and Outreach (Ongoing)

• Promote the platform through social media, partnerships, and events.
• Educate merchants on cryptocurrency payment benefits.