User story: Inside the journey of the TikTok TechJam champion

Were there any challenges or obstacles you faced while building your first-place winning project "JiveGenie"? 

In a sea of innovative projects, making "JiveGenie" stand out was a challenge we took very seriously.

"We knew that in addition to having a solid technical foundation, we needed something that would capture attention and leave a lasting impression," said Helen.

Our approach was multifaceted. First, we focused on solving a real, relatable problem. "JiveGenie" was born from our own experiences with the pain point. We wanted to create something that didn't just generate a choreography, but could understand the 'vibe' or 'mood' a user was looking for. This user-centric approach resonated with many people, including the judges.

Technically, we pushed ourselves to incorporate cutting-edge technologies. We used natural language processing to interpret user inputs about their mood or desired atmosphere, and implemented a novel algorithm that considered factors like tempo, key, and lyrical content to match songs to these inputs. We also integrated TikTok's API in an innovative way, allowing users to discover new music through short video clips.

But we knew that technical innovation alone might not be enough.

"That's where our presentation strategy came in—we literally 'danced our way to first place,'" said Helen.

Instead of a traditional PowerPoint presentation, we created a dynamic, interactive demo that mirrored the TikTok user experience.

Our teammate Roy had shown the judges how user-friendly and approachable our models are, which not only showcased our product but also demonstrated our understanding of TikTok's culture and user base.

Furthermore, we emphasized the potential social impact of our project. We highlighted how "JiveGenie" could help anyone gain exposure to dance and how it could be used to curate choreography for all experiences.

Lastly, we made sure our passion shone through in every aspect of our project and presentation. The judges later commented that they could feel the energy and effort we'd put into not only the attention-grabbing pitch but also the technologies we'd explored. We weren't just presenting a product; we were sharing a vision that we truly believed in.

What strategies or mindset do you think contributed to your success in winning first place?

First and foremost was our passion for the project. We weren't just building "JiveGenie" for the sake of the competition; we were creating a solution to a problem we genuinely cared about. This passion was our driving force, giving us the energy to push through long nights and overcome obstacles. It also shone through in our presentation, making our pitch more compelling and authentic.

Secondly, we adopted a user-first mindset.

Throughout the development process, we constantly asked ourselves, "How does this benefit the user?"

This approach helped us prioritize features and make decisions that enhanced the user experience, rather than just showcasing technical prowess.

Flexibility and adaptability were also crucial. When we faced setbacks, like losing team members or encountering technical difficulties, we quickly adjusted our plans instead of getting discouraged. We viewed challenges as opportunities to innovate rather than insurmountable obstacles. We also emphasized collaboration and open communication within our team. We created an environment where everyone felt comfortable sharing ideas and concerns. This led to better problem-solving and a more cohesive final product.

Another key strategy was our focus on holistic innovation. We didn't just aim to create a technically impressive product; we also paid attention to design, user experience, market potential, and social impact. This well-rounded approach set us apart from teams that may have focused too narrowly on one aspect.

Time management was critical. We set clear milestones and regularly assessed our progress. This helped us ensure that we had a complete, polished product by the deadline, rather than an ambitious but unfinished concept.

Lastly, we maintained a growth mindset throughout the hackathon. We saw every interaction—whether with mentors, judges, or other participants—as a learning opportunity. This openness to feedback and new ideas allowed us to continuously improve our project.

What advice would you give to other developers or students who are interested in participating in hackathons?

Every hackathon is a chance to push your boundaries, learn new skills, and create something meaningful. Even if you don't win, the growth you'll experience is invaluable.

"Take the plunge—you might surprise yourself with what you can achieve!" said Helen.

Based on my experience, I have several pieces of advice for those interested in participating in hackathons:

1. ‍Just do it! Don't let fear or imposter syndrome hold you back. Hackathons are incredible learning experiences, regardless of your skill level. You'll gain far more by participating than by sitting on the sidelines.
2. ‍Focus on solving a real problem. The most impressive technical solution isn't always the winner. Often, it's the project that addresses a genuine need in a clever way that stands out.
3. ‍Build a diverse team. Look for teammates with complementary skills and perspectives. A well-rounded team can approach problems from multiple angles and create more innovative solutions.
4. ‍Don't neglect the presentation. Your brilliant idea needs to be communicated effectively. Spend time crafting a compelling story around your project.
5. ‍Network and learn from others. Hackathons are great opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and industry professionals. Don't be shy about striking up conversations and asking questions.
6. ‍Have fun! While winning is great, the real value lies in the experience itself. Enjoy the process of creating something new and working with passionate people.
7. ‍Follow up afterwards. Whether it's continuing to develop your project, staying in touch with your teammates, or reaching out to contacts you made, the end of the hackathon could just be the beginning.

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Are you feeling inspired to build something amazing? Check out our hackathons happening now!