How does a hackathon work?

First, you get introduced to the topics of the hackathon, and proposed exciting challenges by the organisers and a few “challengers” they have invited. This is happening around the main Patient Challenges area.

Second, you decide which of the ideas/challenges presented interests you most, and form a group together with other people interested in the same. In the third stage, you explore resources that are recommended as a starting point, brainstorm with your team what solutions or directions would be exciting and achievable. If you get lost or run out of ideas, the coaches and challengers will be able to assist you. There is no such thing as a stupid question at a hackathon.

Next, you and your team focus on elaborating your ideas in any suitable form – whether that is researching, writing, making drawings or prototypes. In this you will be taking the first steps towards implementing your project. This key step should take up most of the two days. In the last sprint, we spend time documenting our findings and sharing the results of all groups together: by taking turns presenting our projects.

The coaches, public and participants will contribute feedback and (sometimes) vote for their favorites and award prizes. Then we clean up, and go home.Continue reading ..._

Are you a hackathon beginner?

Does that make you feel worried or anxious? To be frank I was very nervous thinking that amidst all these experienced hackers, a beginner like me would not stand a chance. I will talk about what worked for me and what didn’t at both online and offline hackathons. However, I am not going to tell you, if as a beginner, hackathons are for you, but I will share my story. You can decide later if you still want to attend a hackathon. Continue reading ..._