The Mark Paich Hackathon: a celebration of innovation and creativity
Hackathons are fast-paced, collaborative, problem-solving events that result in working prototypes as solutions. The pace and structure of hackathons encourages a level of creativity and experimentation that often results in ideas and insights that aren’t produced with traditional approaches. And, because they are prize-based team competitions, they are a lot of fun!
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As users of AnyLogic probably know, system simulation models are developed using system dynamics or agent-based modeling paradigms and are based on a feedback-oriented system structure. The dynamic systems feedback perspective is inherent in complex strategic situations like these but is often underutilized.
The System Dynamics Society is running the Hackathon together with the International System Dynamics Conference. There are great prizes! The System Dynamics Society is providing a prize pool of $5000 to the top three teams: $3000 for first place, $1500 for second place, and $500 for third place. Plus, AnyLogic will provide the first-place winners with a 1-year free subscription to AnyLogic Professional.
The Hackathon will get underway at 9:00 a.m. CDT on Friday, July 21, with details about the two challenges that teams will be taking on. The Hackathon kickoff will be delivered live in Chicago at the Palmer House Hilton and simulcast on Zoom. At 9:00 a.m. CDT on Sunday, July 23, 48 hours after the start of the competition, teams will present their solutions to a panel of judges.
Teams must sign up for the Hackathon by July 18 to participate. Any individuals who wish to be placed on a team must sign up by July 11. At least one member of each team must be registered to attend the conference in person or virtually. All Hackathon participants will have access to a free, time-limited subscription to AnyLogic Professional for use during the event. Instructions on how to access the software will be provided upon signup.
It’s AnyLogic’s hope that you will participate and join in the fun!
In memory of Mark Paich
The event is named after Mark Paich, a gifted modeler who made significant advancements in the field of System Dynamics.
Mark was a great friend to AnyLogic, contributing to the early definition and development of the product. As an early adopter and champion of the software, Mark recognized the potential of AnyLogic as a powerful tool for advanced system dynamics and agent-based modeling. He worked frequently with AnyLogic and contributed significantly with numerous articles and presentations, many of which can be found on our website.
Mark even learned Java solely to use in AnyLogic, telling Andrei Borshchev, AnyLogic CEO, “Andrei, I have learned Java, so I am dangerous now.” Just one light-hearted moment from many years of interaction between Mark and the AnyLogic team. A great man who will be sorely missed.
Articles and presentations from Mark on our website: