Here’s how you can organise a successful hackathon!
Ah... the organisation of a hackathon! The intimidation of the word and its mystery outside of the world of technology. Trust us, it is not that complicated!
While you must be thinking that a hackathon is all about coding and tech, you would be surprised to find out that DigiEduHack spreads wider and it is mostly about ideas and innovation. However, if you have never organised a hackathon before, we understand that it might feel like unknown territory, so let us give you some tips!
Start with defining your purpose
What is it that you care about hacking, a.k.a. re-imagining? This will be the subject of your challenge! For instance, if you are passionate about environmental sustainability, your hackathon could focus on developing digital solutions for reducing plastic waste or creating apps that promote eco-friendly practices. By clearly defining your purpose, you’ll attract participants who share your vision and are eager to contribute.
Assemble your dream team
A hackathon is a team effort. You will need organisers to handle logistics, marketing, and technical support. Don’t forget volunteers – they’re essential for keeping everything running smoothly on the day. Having a dedicated and enthusiastic team is the backbone of a successful hackathon.
Choose your ideal format
Are you a master of online events, a fan of traditional in-person events or an explorer of t hybrid ones? Choosing your format will determine an array of different elements of your hackathon. For starters, participation will vary, as depending on your choice hackers will be only from your location, from all around the world or both.
Each format will also require different preparation. For online hackathons, you must ensure your technical infrastructure is sufficient and that an online meeting product is purchased. For the in-person ones, the right venue can make or break your event. Ensure it can comfortably accommodate all participants and has essential facilities like reliable Wi-Fi, plenty of power outlets, and accessible amenities. A welcoming and functional space sets the stage for creativity and collaboration. For a hybrid one you will have to take into account all of the above, as well as how to maintain engagement for both online and offline participants and how to facilitate interactions between the two groups.
Develop a comprehensive schedule and use our experts’ support
A well-structured schedule keeps everyone on track. Outline key milestones, from registration to submissions and judging. Incorporate workshops and mentoring sessions to help participants learn and grow. Providing a mix of structured and free time encourages productivity and creativity. Our partners at Ultrahack can help you with all of the above!
Promote, promote, promote
Use the comms kit provided by the DigiEduHack team and spread the word through social media, email newsletters, and your website. Collaborate with local tech communities, universities, and companies to reach a wider audience. An effective marketing strategy ensures you attract a diverse group of participants excited to take on your challenge.
Stay in touch
Engage with the community you have created! Send out post-event surveys to gather feedback and thank participants, sponsors, volunteers, and partners. Share outcomes, winning projects, and photos/videos on your website and social media. Keeping the community engaged with follow-up events or meetups can foster long-term connections and collaborations.
All these tips and more will be given to you by our hackathon experts once you sign up! Join us in the journey of imagining the future of digital education.
