Hackathon

Civic techTechnology

A hackathon is an event, usually hosted by a tech company or organisation, in which computer programmers collaborate intensively on software projects.

A hackathon is an event, usually hosted by a tech company or organisation, in which a large number of people meet to write or improve computer programs. The goal of a hackathon is to create functioning software or hardware by the end of the event. The origin of the word comes from hacker + marathon.

In practice

Hackathons can address various challenges on different levels. The tasks can vary from creating a website or a data visualisation to creating a solution for a crisis, for example the hackathon "Hack the Crisis" aimed at finding solutions to various Covid-19 related issues.

Related terms

Civic tech

Civic Tech

Civic technology, or civic tech, enhances the relationship between the people and government with software for communications, decision-making, service delivery, and political process.

Data visualization

Datastory

A platform that explains important issues using data storytelling and interactive visualizations to make complex information accessible.

Technology

Open Format

A file format with no restrictions, monetary or otherwise, placed upon its use and whose specification is publicly available.