Hackathons

This book provides a detailed and comprehensive overview of all phases of a hackathon and thus helps to reduce complexity, to use opportunities, to avert pitfalls and to avoid problems. In addition, it also explains from a participant’s perspective how to succeed in a hackathon. Lastly, the book is rounded off by extensive checklists, which support you in your own hackathons.

The book is structured as follows: At first the basics and the history of hackathons are described in chapter 1. Afterwards the three phases of a hackathon are described in detail. This is started in chapter 2 with the description of the individual measures which are to be accomplished before the actual event. Here not only technical or organizational aspects are described, but also the important legal aspects are discussed. Subsequently, it is shown what is necessary to carry out a hackathon successfully. For this purpose the actual execution with all its steps is described in chapter 3. Next, chapter 4 looks at the follow-ups, which are often neglected or even completely forgotten. Chapter 5 describes from a participant’s point of view the reasons for participating in a hackathon and which aspects guarantee a successful participation. In the following chapter 6 the criticism of the format of the hackathons and their execution is also examined in detail. Eventually, the most important points are summarized in chapter 7, before chapter 8 gives a view into the future of hackathons. Subsequently chapter 9 collects statements and opinions of representatives from industry, science and administration on the topic of hackathons. The book is rounded off in chapter 10 with detailed checklists, which can be directly used for the successful planning, operation and follow-up of hackathons.

The book is written for everyone with an interest in how hackathons work, how to create them, and how to successfully participate. It especially targets people in industry or young students who want to run or participate in a hackathon.