We put together world-class sprints for you with our partners, to help plan new solutions for a modern and connected Switzerland. In the Frequently Asked Questions below, see how we reward creation, and how we make sure that you are tapped into and connected with great talent.
What are Impact Sprints Zürich?
The Impact Sprints Zürich series is a collection of sprints in Switzerland to facilitate government procurement of innovative scalable solutions. We provide the time to develop your ideas in Zürich and the time to soundboard and test them with our GovTech procurement experts.
What do you mean by an Impact Sprint?
Very good question. We adapt the traditional hacking/sprint approach to encourage deep problem solving that has an impact. If you have an inquisitive mind and a growth mindset, then our sprints are for you. We are rewarding people who attend our sprints by celebrating their ownership of ideas, and ensuring they get the chance to pitch ideas and approaches to key decision makers that help drive the use of technology in governments.
What must I do to get a place at your sprints?
If you are willing to help improve the use of technology in government, then we ask that you join us in Zürich for one of our Impact Sprints. Please apply now!
What type of people are you looking for?
We’re looking for all types of people – the most important thing is that you’re passionate about what you do, and that you can work well in a fast-paced team environment.
We’d love to see ideas people. Creative, free thinkers who look to the future and imagine what might be possible.
And we’d love to see builders. Skilled people with experience in developing great prototypes.
We don’t mind whether you come as a manager, team leader, designer, developer, coder, or something else entirely! If you feel you can contribute at our sprints, then apply now!
Do I need to be a computer expert?
If you can use a computer then that’s super helpful. But for these sprints, we want people to apply with the skills needed to solve big problems and test new ideas. That means people who can absorb new ways of thinking, actively listen to feedback, and then make sure their ideas are validated so they can offer great solutions. So we are really looking for the kind of people that thrive in solving problems and are comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
Do I need to be an procurement expert?
No, you don’t need to be an expert on government procurement processes – but it would be helpful if you have a good understanding of how your solutions might fit into government.
What language will the Impact Sprints be held in?
The Impact Sprints will be held in English. If your English is good enough to read this website, it’s probably good enough for you to come! To be more inclusive for everyone (and so all of our mentors understand your work), we do ask that you work within your teams and build your prototypes in English too.
Do you provide travel reimbursements or accommodation?
We will provide refreshments for all attendees and are unable to offer travel reimbursements or accommodation.
Is there an age limit?
You must be at least 18 years old to attend our Impact Sprints.
What should I bring?
Bring what you need to work best. We think the most important thing you’ll need to bring is an open mindset. We also suggest you bring your laptop, mobile phone and anything else you need (chargers, external hard drives, external keyboard etc).
How are teams formed?
You can apply as an individual, or in a preformed team. We will matchmake individuals to preformed teams, bringing the teams to the required number of members. This process will be based on your skillsets and interests. We may also place an expert directly into your team as well, to assist you further.
What if I don't know anyone there?
Don’t worry – you’ll meet people on the day! We will allocate you to a team, so you’ll be working together. They won’t bite!
Is there a Code of Conduct?
Yes, we require everyone at our events to follow our Code of Conduct.
What refreshments are provided?
We provide healthy refreshments.
Do I need to have an idea beforehand?
We look for people who have a growth mindset. So if you have an idea already, it will be celebrated and given the space to grow – and if you don’t have one yet, you will receive guidance from mentors to help you conceptualise with your team.
Will there be any WiFi?
Yes – fast WiFi will be provided for commercial use.
Who owns the stuff I conceptualise/build?
You. We know that the best sprints allow you to keep your intellectual property – just as if I’d asked you to cook a meal, I’d expect you to own the recipe and share it as and when you want to.
That’s the future of work – and it’s how we see you best making the use of technology in government more exciting.
We will let you know exactly how we plan to help you protect your intellectual property.
Are there any winners or prizes?
Just by being selected you’re a winner. But what we’re really looking for are solutions that you can present to government procurement people in Switzerland, and potentially across Europe. Not to mention ones that could be adopted around the world!
With our partners we have that reach. So if you create something great, we’ll make sure that it’s seen by all of the key decision makers.
What is the theme of the Impact Sprints?
To be announced.
I have more questions. Can I contact you?
Sure, drop us an e-mail at sayhello@hackoutliers.com