A client from the US once told me that the reason he likes Sri Lankan software engineers is their approach to problem solving. According to him, these software engineers are not simply ‘yes’ and/or ‘can do’ people but professionals who are committed to crafting innovative and creative solutions to solve a client’s current issues and address future needs.
This is why the idea of launching a Code Art competition resonated with us. This is an initiative to encourage software engineering undergraduates to take a holistic approach to problem solving – technical, creative and communicative – key aspects of a good solution.
What is code art?
This is generative art / creative coding. This not only gives the competitors a chance to upskill their technical capabilities but also to think creatively and explore limitless possibilities. It’s an opportunity to explore a problem in an innovative way instead of settling for standard solutions. This is why we believe that this competition will encourage the holistic approach that software professionals bring to the table.
However good the solution is, if it cannot be communicated in its totality in a way that resonates with the client, it will not be valuable. Participants’ ability to communicate their vision will be another aspect that we will be looking at.
Whilst teamwork is crucial, so is individual initiative. Hence, the reason for making this event open to both teams and individuals. In other words, our aim was inclusion. We are thrilled to have received applicants from universities across the country – both state run and private, teams and individuals.
We hope that this experience will be something that will encourage the participants and their friends and peers in the industry to look at problem solving in a new light. Given the enthusiasm shown by the participants to network with each other, I believe we are on the right track.
On behalf of the organizing committee and team Q4US, I would like to wish the competitors all the very best.