An investigation of the features facilitating effective collaboration between public health experts and data scientists at a hackathon

The objective of this study is to explore facilitating factors for collaboration at hackathons, intensive events bringing together data scientists (‘hackers’) with experts in particular subject areas. This is a qualitative study. Semistructured interviews were conducted with organisers before and after the event. The initial exploratory interviews influenced the content of questionnaires which were distributed to all participants asking about their motivations and experiences. Thematic analysis was used to explore key features of collaboration. Facilitating factors were clustered under the themes of preparation (the right amount of pre-event information, methods to maximise attendance and identification of suitable challenges), participants (enough people to progress and a mixture of skills and experience), working together (mutual understanding of the aim, getting the best out of each other, overcoming challenges together, effective facilitation and an enjoyable and valuable experience) and follow-up (recognised process for feedback and support for the development of prototypes). The findings of the study provide insight into fostering collaboration in this context and provide evidence that may be used to tailor future events for the effective delivery of technological and marketing-based solutions to public health challenges. Hackathons provide a methodological advance with potential for broad public health application. •Hackathons are a new approach to solve public health challenges using technology.•They provide a valuable forum for engaging with service users.•Collaboration between public health experts and data scientists can be encouraged using a range of strategies.•These include maximising the participation of people with lived experience of the issues under consideration.