Problem Statement: Cities of the Future

The world is ever-evolving and the cities are becoming more than just places to live. They are centres of culture, innovation, and human connection. But as populations grow and move into urban areas, the challenges of sustainability, efficiency, and optimality grow more urgent.

Climate change, resource scarcity, and the evolving nature of work all raise the same question: What kind of technologies will power the Cities of the Future? How might we design tools and systems that help cities thrive in the face of these challenges?

• How can urban infrastructure be reimagined to ensure sustainability in the long term under the ever-present issue of climate change?
• What solutions can optimise public resources, such as water, electricity, and waste management, in expanding cities?
• How can we support diverse industries and workers in a future where remote work and the gig economy are the norm?

About the challenge

This is the annual 24-hour hackathon hosted by SYNCS, the Sydney Computing Society at the University of Sydney. To be an eligible participant, you need to be a University student over 18 years old in Australia! 

What to Build

You are tasked with building a software product or service within 24 hours. The guidelines for your submission will be specified in the info pack that was sent out via email. More information will also be revealed during the Opening Ceremony (Make sure you attend that!). 

For any questions, please use the "SYNCS HACK!" channel on Discord

• Idea (15 points)
  Is the problem or use case realistic? Is the solution unique or innovative?
• Implementation (20 points)
  Is your solution functional? Does the solution display impressive technical skills? Does the solution address the use case?
• Design (15 points)
  Does the solution have a good user experience? Is the solution well-branded and cohesive? Is the UI readable and accessible?
• Pitch (10 points)
  Is the pitch engaging, clearly addressing the theme and problem statement?