Software Design competition - work required?

We've had some queries as to what is required to enter the Imagine Cup Software Design competition. This is a great question and relevant, as many students worry about the conflict between their academic studies and this competition.

The answer is a kind of "how long is a bit of string" one in that you can do as much or as little work as you want. Believe in your idea so much and want to be the next big thing then work on it hard and use the Imagine Cup to showcase your idea and get funding. See the Imagine Cup as a great way to get in front of employers then demonstrate your skill rather than a complete entry and reap the rewards of recruiters banging down your door.

These are my thoughts and not official rules or guidance:

Round 1

This is only an idea articulated on paper. It doesn't take long and I could probably write it up in about 30 mins at a push. The time to get the idea will either be instant of have you thinking for days - go to the pub with your team and brainstorm!

See this dummy entry to see what we are looking for

Round 2 - The workshop

This is the longest commitment but also the most valuable. It is 2 1/2 days at our offices in Reading learning all the stuff you want to know about the software industry. From leading architecture practices to presenting your idea to a funding council or your new boss.

Round 3 - Implementation

This is the area I think most people will be concerned about taking up loads of time. Don't worry - it isn't that hard. We will be writing a dummy implementation and we predict that it could all be coded up in about 8-12 hours (split over 2-4 team members this is not a lot of time. Then maybe another 3 hours submitting your entry and presentation.

That said if you want to do more then you will be in a better chance of winning. But just doing this and doing it well will guarantee you a place in the final event and get you in front of recruiters.

Any questions then let me know - markjo@microsoft.com