Imagine getting help to make your big idea a reality. That’s what The Imagine Cup — the world’s hottest student technology competition – has done for many past students. Awesome, right? Thankfully, there are heaps of online guides to help you (or your team) get started on your Software Design entry. It’s easier than you’d think!
Since the Microsoft-sponsored Imagine Cup started 10 years ago, previous winners have even gone on to create start-ups based on their entries, won cash grants and found professional mentors. This is your chance to get your skills noticed on the world stage.
Some Great Resources to Help you with your Entry
Check out how to make the most of your entry at ImagineCup.com.au. You’ll find all the resources you need to get started – including ‘Imagine Casts’ – videos from experts who are doing amazing things of their own. Each deals with one key aspect of how to create an awesome Imagine Cup entry:
– Choosing An Issue You Care About
– Solution Design And Innovation
(with Sydney-based Futurist Tim Longhurst; shown above)
– Technical Architecture And User Experience
– Ideas That Make A Splash
– Presenting Your Imagine Cup Project
Another great resource is Ed Hooper’s Winner’s 101 Guide. Ed was part of the Aussie team that won the worldwide finals in the Software Design category in 2008. He wrote this guide specifically to help students like you create great submissions.
Judging Criteria
Of course, it’s important to make sure your entry meets the full judging criteria.
The basic breakdown is as follows:
10% – How Are you Making A Difference?
35% – What Does Your Solution Do?
30% – How Does Your Solution Work?
15% – How Will Your Solution Become A Reality?
10% – How Well Have You Explained Your Solution
We believe that every idea has to start somewhere, and we’re here to help you make it happen.
Most of all, we can’t wait to see what you come up with!