Microtask Programming Hackathon

Abstract

Microtask programming is a novel approach to software development which reduces context by dividing a project into self-contained microtasks, reducing barriers developers face to contribute to a new project. Microtask programming may enable more developers to work in parallel and reduce the time necessary to complete projects.However, microtask programming has, to date, only been used with small crowds of developers. To examine its potential at scale, we will organize a microtask programming hackathon involving many developers. A microtask programming hackathon differs from traditional hackathons, in that participants work on a single large project rather than many small projects and compete as individuals rather than in groups. We intend the hackathon to simulate a possible use case for microtask programming for rapid product development.