What is the purpose of a hackathon?

Hackathons are not single-purpose events, but rather multifaceted opportunities for both the host organization(s) and participants to achieve a diverse set of objectives. Some of the most common applications for the host(s) include; discovering business solutions, accelerated product/service launch, staff training and engagement, canvassing for new talent, and improved developer relations.

What happens during a hackathon?

A hackathon is a versatile competition that brings together creative thinkers to solve various problems in a predetermined (typically short) amount of time. There is a wide variety of hackathon event structures but the typical framework is as follows; 1. The event challenges, objectives, rules, parameters and timelines are clearly defined by the host organization(s), 2. Members from ideal/target demographics are invited and encouraged to participate, 3. Participants form teams of 4-6 people, 4. Teams work to find creative solutions to the challenge and build a prototype of their concept, 5. Once complete teams demonstrate their product to a panel of expert judges, 6. Winners are announced and prizes awarded, the organizer announces the winning team

Why is it called a hackathon?

The term “hackathon” is an amalgamation (more formally known as a portmanteau) of the words “hacker” and “marathon”. A “hacker” generally refers to computer programmers, designers, innovators, and other domain experts. The marathon component is derived from the short time frame in which most hackathons are structured. Challenges typically push participants to work for extended hours without sleep in order to complete their prototype. The term hackathon was first coined in Calgary, Canada, on June 4, 1999 for the OpenBSD Hackathon. Check out our article What is a Hackathon?

How long is a hackathon?

Typically hackathons run for 24-48 hours depending on the expected outcome, however some extend beyond this typical frame if more extensive prototyping is needed.

How do I prepare for my first hackathon?

1. Study and explore previous hackathons by the host organization and winning solutions. These insights will help you to anticipate the types of challenges you’ll face, 2. Determine where to find the resources you will need during the hackathon, 3. Learn how to effectively work in teams, by attributing the right task to the individual with the correct skillset, 4. Explore and research the host organization’s industry

Are hackathons worth it?

Hackathons offer added value to both organizers and attendees. They are a great option when looking to find and assess business solutions, work with startups, train your staff, build a talent pool or launch a new product/service. As an attendee it’s a chance to network with others in similar fields, bring your ideas to life, learn new skills, or push outside your comfort zone and improve your skills.

Who can take part in Hackathon?

Each hackathon is unique and may or may not have specific prerequisites. Some events are open to anyone interested, while others may be specific to students, those with particular certifications or credentials, for example. It’s best to explore the guidelines before registering.

Hackathons: Not Solely for Programmers

Posted on

December 22, 2021

Hackathons have been going around for many years now with the same goal of creating functioning software or hardware by the end of the event. But, when talking about software and hardware, programmers are always the first people that come to mind since software and hardware need code. But are hackathons really for just programmers or software developers?

In this article, we will figure out the answer to that question. Here, we will see if non-technical people can have a chance of winning hackathons.
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Can Non-Technical People Win a Hackathon?

If your company plans to host an internal hackathon, you should open it for technical and non-technical employees. Why? Because non-technical people can also win a hackathon. Winning a hackathon doesn’t need to have coding or programming skills. It’s not a prerequisite for participating in hackathons anymore. Anyone can win, thanks to no-code application development.

With the help of no-code platforms, anyone can build applications and technology optimizations without writing any codes. So, even if your employees are non-technical people, their dreams of winning a hackathon can come true. They just need to take advantage of different technologies and tools to build creative solutions. In fact, they can change the traditional way of building software and platforms by democratizing the tools of innovation.
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What Are Some Examples of No-Code Applications?

Let’s say your team is serious about winning your hackathon. In that case, tell your employees that they should learn and master different no-code application tools, like AppSheet and Google Cloud’s no-code application development platform. These applications are built for democratization, which can help them win the competition.
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How Can No-Code Hackathons Drive Value?

Companies like you hosting a hackathon should support no-code app development. Why? Because it can significantly add value to your company in the long run. It can improve the processes and productivity of your company since the outcome will be based on your non-technical employees’ experiences.

Instead of relying on the developer to create a solution for an unfamiliar issue, the people working and experiencing the company’s pain points can develop an effective solution themselves. They can achieve this by using no-code applications. These non-technical personnel often have the power to determine what kind of solution is best to address these issues the best. Since they are often the individuals most fit to describe the need and the process effectively, they just need a platform and program to assist them.

Remember, when the person closest to the problem can create a solution, your organization can remain future-focused. This is a great mindset to have, rather than scrambling to address inconveniences with your limited IT resources.
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Is No-Code Application Meant to Replace IT Experts in Hackathons?

No code applications are just there to give business workers an immediate solution. Instead, it should be a bridge to brainstorm on potential pathways for apps that otherwise might never have been built. It's a great way to have people from the corporate side of your operations see these opportunities. Doing so lets your developers free to focus on high-value strategic initiatives while getting relevant comments and suggestions on their work.
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No-Code Programs Can Help Eliminate the “Hackathons- Only For Programmers” Idea

As you can see, hackathons are not only for programmers or software developers. Any non-technical person can join hackathons, even without coding or programming skills. They just need to learn and utilize no-code applications. Who knows, since non-technical personnel often have more knowledge about the common issues and problems, they have a tendency to create the best software and hardware solutions, which can make them win a hackathon competition.

If you’re a corporation planning to host an internal hackathon, let Hackathon.com help you! Since we are the largest online hackathon community worldwide, connecting over 2000 hackathon organizers with our more than 10 million member innovators around the globe, we can give you the best company hackathon ideas. Access our guide today to learn how to run a hackathon!

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