Project Planning

I’ve never been to a “hackathon” before. What should I expect?

This is not a traditional software hackathon. It really is space away for a couple of days to focus on a self-organized project with peers from the PDT team. The point is to work on something you want to work on, socialize with your peers and have fun while learning something together. We work on our projects during traditional “work hours” (not in 24hr sprints) and there is no “grand prize” or specified finish line. We have presentations on Friday if you’d like to share what you’ve created and learned as a result of your participation at VAX. In addition to working hours, we’ll have some optional social events you can attend to meet and hang out with peers, along with some free time to go explore on your own.

How do I choose a project?

We use a trello board to organize VAX projects. We’ll start with a bunch of pitches. If you have an idea, you’ll put it on the trello board, if you don’t, that’s okay you’ll pick from one of the ones on the board. Then, you’ll add yourself to projects that sound interesting. As we get closer to August, we’ll ask people who “own” projects to confirm who is in their group and start to self organize from there.

How do I know what makes a good project? Or what idea to pitch?

We’re going to host three Project Planning Brainstorm sessions over the month of July. We’ll share sample projects from the past, tips on what makes a successful project (e.g. scoping), how to organize your team and best practices for making the most of your time at VAX. These sessions are optional, one will be recorded if you can’t make the times listed, and you only need to attend one.

Is there a timeline for this? How should I fit this into my work schedule?

Obviously work comes first, but managers are supportive if you want to attend VAX and need to take an occasional meeting or two in order to prepare for VAX. The owner of the project will act as a defacto project manager unless your group decides otherwise. Over the course of July, we’ll push for folks to submit ideas, select what most interests them, and then organize final projects and groups. That way by August, you have a few weeks to prep any pre-work you may want or need to prepare. Please ensure that you work with your managers and project/product managers if you’re going to take time off for VAX.

How do I join the Trello Board?

If you’re already a Vox Media Org Trello User

1. Click the button below to view the trello board.
2. Once you can view it, to be able to edit it, press the “+” button in the top center to “join the board.”
3. Follow the instructions listed on the READ ME card to add, delete and edit projects.

If you’re new to Trello and VAX

Go to trello.com and create an account using your Vox Media e-mail address.

Slack Ashley Twaddell and she'll add you to the Vox Media Trello Org. This should give you access to all publicly visible Trello boards. Then either hit the link to the board from the website or search "VAX Denver 2019" on Trello. Once you can view it, to be able to edit it, press the "+" button in the top center to "join the board." Follow the instructions listed on the READ ME card to add, delete and edit projects.

VAX Project Trello Board