Hackathons


 * ** How Hackathons Work || These events are fast-paced contests to code software. And just like code, they proceed through a logical sequence.—S.L. ||

1/ Come up with an idea.
Participants build applications from text-messaging services and photo filters to games. They mostly code for cell phones, but occasionally they hack hardware like microwaves, tablets, and Lego Mindstorm robots.

2/ Build a team.
Two to five people team up, either before the event or ad hoc once they arrive. Ideally each team will consist of an engineer (to code), a designer (to create the user interface), and a business developer (to present the business case).

3/ Execute the concept.
All or most of the work happens at the competition, which is typically 24 or 48 hours long. When time is up, the software’s main feature is expected to be functional. The project should also have a name, logo, and website.

4/ Present a finished product.
Each team gets a minute or two to demo its product. A short slide show explains how the app works and highlights its potential for revenue, advertising, and growth.

5/ Face the judges.
Venture capitalists, CEOs, journalists, and programmers typically vote on a winner, based on the app’s concept, functionality, design, utility, and business plan.

6/ Collect your prize.
At large conferences, a winner can take home $250,000 in seed funding or a spot at a startup accelerator. At smaller competitions, teams might receive $10,000, an iPad or laptop, or gift certificates for web hosting. //Illustration: Tim Boelaars//