Organizing a hackathon? Here are the most frequently asked questions about hackathons:
What is a hackathon event, and is a hackathon suitable for my organization?
A question we often get is: 'How do I organize a hackathon?Many think it’s solely for software programmers, but that’s not always the case. We also organize many social hackathons, which can be seen as extensive brainstorming sessions where teams work to solve a specific problem in a short time. Participants pitch their concepts to a jury or peers, often for a prize, though sometimes the focus is just on gathering ideas.
If you're planning a hackathon, consider whether you prioritize the process or the final outcome.
What is the duration of a hackathon?
ost of our hackathons last one to two days, for example, typically running from 9 AM to 5 PM. Traditionally, a hackathon spans 24 hours, including overnight sessions. Depending on the process, target audience, and desired outcomes, we can advise on the optimal duration for your hackathon. We organize virtual, hybrid, and offline hackathons, with some events even lasting just a few hours or two half-days.
Why not just host a brainstorming session instead?
The duration and intensity of a hackathon foster a unique atmosphere, focus, and engagement among participants. During a hackathon, individuals from various age groups, experience levels, and disciplines collaborate closely. Unlike brainstorming sessions, where discussions often get postponed, hackathons require participants to present their ideas to peers, a jury, or key stakeholders at the end. This urgency enhances commitment and drives innovative outcomes.
Can I attend a hackathon from another client?
Yes, please contact us at the bottom of this page. We can check with one of our clients to see if you can attend a hackathon. This will help you decide if outsourcing a hackathon is the right fit for your organization.
What costs should I consider when organizing a hackathon?
The costs of organizing a hackathon depend on many factors, including the location, its duration and additional features like hiring a photographer or a professional speaker for the event. Since each hackathon is tailored to specific needs, it’s best to discuss your requirements briefly. After that, we can provide you with a price estimate for organizing your hackathon. For more details, please contact us at the bottom of this page.
Do hackathons involve actual hacking?
That is not always necessary! The hackathon originally emerged from the startup scene, where programmers collaborated. However, we now organize hackathons for various target groups, including students, civil servants, donors, designers, developers, data scientists, marketers, and innovators.
What advantages can my organization gain from hosting a corporate hackathon?
This obviously depends on the type of participants and the duration of the hackathon. Within one day, you can develop a concept, while you can expect a prototype after 2 to 3 days.
Is it possible to work with you in a flexible way as a hackathon organizer?
Yes, this is possible. We also offer an advisory package where you take charge. Your organization can handle many aspects independently, and we provide the structure and templates to ensure your first hackathon is a success.
Do you organize hackathons for internal teams, external participants, or both?
Both! When we organize a hackathon, it's possible to hold one exclusively for internal employees or to include external participants, for whom we can assist in recruitment. We organize both online hackathons as offline hackathons.