In order to make hackathons effective, participants need to be inspired. The easiest way to inspire participants is to give the something to focus on. A theme for the hackathon.
But is it a theme, or a focus? Whats the difference between a theme, and a focus? They do sure sound similar.
Without going into the specifics of the words. I will tell you how these words make me feel.
To me, a “theme” is defined as having a broad categorization. When people say “theme”, people think it can cover a broad area.
Meanwhile “focus” conveys to me a precision, and a smaller area to dedicate our time to cover.
Somehow hearing “theme”, I feel people haven’t really decided on what to work on. But when “focus” is used, a decision has been come upon, and all energy should be directed towards it. I feel more excited hearing “focus”.
How does “theme” and “focus” convey to you?
Hackathons should have focuses, not themes.
Hackweekend is focusing on Gamification. Do you think you have what it takes?
