Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Hackathon?
A hackathon is best described as an “invention marathon”. Anyone interested in technology can attend a hackathon to learn, build and share their creations over the course of 12 hours in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. You don’t have to be a programmer and you certainly don’t need to have a degree in Computer Science!
Do we sign up as individuals or as a team?
You can sign up as individuals or as a team. It is up to you. If you sign up as an individual, the Digital by Design team will put you with a group beforehand and you can communicate on the Hackathon’s Slack page: https://skhackathon.slack.com or set up your own Slack page at www.slack.com to go over ideas and strategy.
Who will pitch the ideas?
You and your team will. It would be helpful if you have done some research beforehand, or know of some of the challenges facing citizens in Stockport from your experience, your background or your job.
Whoever wants to pitch an idea can do so. We would encourage as many people as possible to pitch ideas no matter what stage they are at. Other participants will help you shape and refine them.
Teams are free to work on any idea they want as long as the end result helps citizens connect with the wider community and activities.
Members of the Digital by Design team will be on hand to help and answer any questions you might have.
Are there any prizes?
Yes! These are some of the potential prizes up for grabs at the Hackathon:
- An Amazon Echo for each member of the winning team (courtesy of CDL)
- Work experience working in an Agile software development environment, in Stockport Council’s Digital by Design team.
- Potential for your idea to be supported into development by Stockport Council.
Is the hackathon open to anyone?
Entry is open to anyone over the age of 16.
Who can come?
Everyone is welcome! If you have any interest in technology, even if you are not technical, please feel free to join us on the day. The most important thing is that you would like to share your experience and ideas with us.
Are we allowed to use third party components like open source libraries etc. to implement a solution? Are there limitations on component licensing?
You can use any software, provided these are declared in the presentation and are being used lawfully i.e. under licence.
Will there be wireless internet access?
Yes, there will be. However, it is always better to be prepared: If you have a backup option, please feel free to bring along.
Can we use any programming language?
Yes.
I just graduated, can I still come to an event?
Yes. Anyone over the age of 16 is eligible to attend, no matter what your qualifications or experience! It will look good on your CV, too.
Is there support available?
The environment at these events is designed specifically to encourage everyone to have fun and help each other. If you’re ever stuck on anything, speak to a Digital by Design team member who might able to help. Team mates and other participants are on hand too, as this is a collaborative environment.
What if I don’t know anybody there?
The best way to get to know people is to set up a team at https://skhackathon.slack.com and invite people to join you.
Are there any online platforms where I could share my ideas prior to the event?
Yes. Join: https://skhackathon.slack.com
This is where all our hackathon participants organise their team conversations, and if needed, keep it private within their team.
Will there be food?
Yes, your meals for the day will be free and there’ll be plenty of snacks and drinks to keep you going. If you’ve got specific dietary requirements, you should let us know and we’ll be more than happy to make arrangements.
What is the benefit of participating?
Learning new skills, good on your CV, networking, giving back to community, winning a prize, working as a team, and having fun!
Great! How can I get involved?
Go ahead and visit the Digital by Design Hackathon page and book your place.
Have another question that didn’t get answered here? SEND US AN EMAIL!
Keep an eye on the Digital by Design blog, and join the #SKhackathon conversation on Twitter.