Running a software jam in a world of slop

9 hours ago

Software hackathons face challenges like low-quality AI-driven submissions and lack of genuine craft.
Funding for hackathons often relies on begging local companies, but Hack Club uses an hour-based model ($8.5/hour) tracked via Hackatime.
Hour-based funding creates perverse incentives, encouraging lazy projects for cash without skill improvement.
The solution involves a software jam model that mimics game jams, where low-effort entries gain no rewards, promoting quality work.
Improving software jams requires better judges, clear expectations (e.g., no LLM-based projects), and ample time for quality coding.
Prizes in the jam scale with participation, advertised with disclaimers about budget changes, though the model involves some risk for participants.
The approach aims to enhance both the jam experience and Hack Club's program effectiveness, targeting teens interested in coding.

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