Hackathons are events in which teams of programmers compete to see who can produce a project with the most interesting or unique use of a certain topic in the shortest time.
Hackathons usually have objectives around an industry or sector, with developers building products such as educational software, blockchain applications, privacy programs, etc.
It is essentially a competition in which developers are challenged to create an application quickly. For example, some hackathons have a 48-hour time limit.
When developers take part in hackathons, they are sometimes split into groups that compete with each other to complete the task.
Hackathons are sometimes issued due to a need for an organization to improve its product, add new features, or create a new one entirely.
The participants could develop anything from mobile apps to business-class software, depending on the organization's goals.
In some cases, actual "hacking" may be requested by an organization to identify any weaknesses in its products or systems.
In this case, the participants will be tasked with identifying and exploiting any existing vulnerabilities the organization may not be aware of.
These hackathons provide a technical challenge for eager programmers and foster an environment in which developers of various specializations may network and share knowledge under the pressure of a limited period of time.
Internal Hackathons
Internal hackathons are competitions set by an organization or company, where the employees engage in a competition that can span a few hours or even days.
For example, employees can be tasked with developing new features for an existing product, creating prototypes for a new product, and more.
Employees may be split into teams, with the winning team receiving a reward for their efforts, such as having the idea put into action by the organization.
Contrary to external hackathons, only the organization's employees can take part in these hackathons.
External Hackathons
External hackathons are programming competitions that are open to individuals who don't belong to the organization. Essentially, the competition is open to anyone with the skills to participate.
Organizations may run external hackathons to scout for new talent and publicity or to discover new and exciting product ideas. These are the more well-known hackathons since they attract more media attention.
The Benefits of a Hackathon
Developers who participate in a hackathon can showcase their programming skills to people who can promote (if the hackathon is internal) or hire them (if the hackathon is external).
Participants can also have their ideas made into actual products, systems, or services. Cash prizes are another potential benefit for participants in hackathons.
Participants in a hackathon also have the chance to learn new skills by working alongside other programmers. Mentors can also advise participants, which can help build or improve their skill sets.
Being involved in a hackathon puts developers around other people who may share the same passion and ambitions, making it a great opportunity to network.
In addition, hackathon organizers and mentors within the program are another networking opportunity, especially if the participants create a product, system, or service that stands out.
Conclusion
Hackathons can benefit the organization and the participants in many ways. It's a good way to find new talent, develop new ideas and products, and improve publicity for an organization.
For developers, hackathons are a great networking and skill-building opportunity. Developers also have a chance to have their developed programs built into actual products or services.
Developers need to team up with individuals who share the same drive they have if they plan to succeed.
Participating in a hackathon is a good way to meet others with similar interests and people with the resources and connections to take a developer to higher places.