MODHack - Mining the Deep Web

Event Details

#MODHack - Mining the Deep Web

MODHack is a unique opportunity to collaborate with software developers, data scientists and innovators to develop ideas and solutions for mining of the Deep Web. The Deep Web is the part of the internet which is not indexed (searchable) from standard search engines such as Google. It is estimated that up to 95% of the web is currently un-indexed, which is fine for a general internet user, but un-acceptable for domain specific search and retrieval. Participants will use a range of open source tools and services and build something that has the potential to support the national security of the UK.

This event forms one aspect of the wider of the Catalysing Defence Innovation Science & Technology (CDIST) project, under which MOD is looking at new approaches for innovation, and mechanisms for engaging with non-traditional Defence suppliers.

Objective

The objective of the event will be to help invent better methods for interacting with and sharing information, so users can quickly and thoroughly organize and search subsets of information relevant to their individual interests. Creation of a new domain-specific indexing and search paradigm will provide mechanisms for improved content discovery, information extraction, information retrieval, user collaboration, and extension of current search capabilities to the deep web, and non-traditional (e.g. multimedia) content. Specifically Dstl is interested in innovative concepts and solutions which are useable by non-specialists and have the flexibility to be applied to new domains as operational requirements change and international threats develop. We're looking for ideas with potential, which could enhance MOD's capabilities in the long term. The MOD OSINT programme Innovation service will be used as the exploitation route for delivering emerging technology, tools and services to the User.

Current domains of interest include

• Global Stability - MOD needs to understand the potential threat to UK nationals based overseas. Help us develop capabilities to track global and regional stability including the detection of deteriorating security situations.

• Support to National Evacuation Orders (NEOs) - During the evacuation of civilians and non-combatants from overseas countries (Libya (2011); Lebanon (2006); Sierra Leone (2000)) MOD needs to gain situational awareness of where UK nationals are based; where the main threats are; and what evacuation routes are suitable to support military planning 

• Support to Disaster Relief Operations - MOD plays a key role in providing support to a wider UK government response to disaster relief (e.g  the Ebola Crisis in West Africa). During such operations MOD needs to understand where forces are needed, and what threats exist. Help us develop capabilities for remote situational awareness during Disaster Relief Operations in the future.

 Event schedule

The hackathon takes place over three days, Friday 25th - Sunday 27th September 2015.

Friday 25th September

13:30 - 14:30                      Registration 

14:30 - 18:00                      Welcome and introduction to challenge and toolset

18:00 - 19:00                       Dinner

19:00 - 21:00                      Project selection and Team formation

21:00                                  Close first day

Saturday 26th September

Hack runs throughout the day

08:30                                     Breakfast

13:00                                     Lunch

19:00                                     Dinner

21:00                                     Close second day

Sunday 27th September 

08:30                                     Breakfast

10:00 - 12:00                        Project presentations

12:00 - 13:00                        Lunch

13:00 - 14:00                        Prize Giving

14:00                                    Close MODHack

Format

Come as a team - or join one on the day.

Software resources

Defence Science and Technology Laboratories (Dstl) are collaborating with the US Department of Defence’s Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). Participants can use any technology they wish, however you may want to consider building on the Open Source tools developed by DARPA under the Memex Programme. The full set of Memex tools will be available on registration. Defence Science & Technology Laboratory (Dstl) experts will be on hand to assist with Memex and provide a Cloud development environment. All you need do is bring your laptop and be up for it!

Ownership of code/app development

Dstl/MOD will not have a claim on any Intellectual Property you create. You build it, you keep it. As the Memex tools are open source we would encourage participants to share any enhancements to enable solutions to be developed outside the hackathon event. Support will be given to the most promising proofs of concept to get a market ready MVP.

Judging criteria

The prototypes produced by developers will be judged according to the following criteria:

-          Operational Impact: Does the innovation have a measureable impact?

-          Exploitability: How easy will it be for MOD to exploit the project/concept?

-          Usability: Is the project/concept simple, and easy to use by non-technical users?

-          Innovation: How innovative is the idea?

The judging panel will be made up of experts from MOD, Dstl, and Knowledge Transfer Network.

The venue

Wallacespace, 18 Clerkenwell Green, London EC1R 0DP.

Prizes

The Proofs of Concept developed will be judged and there will be awards in various categories for coding and concept skills. A rather exclusive prize is up for grabs to the team that develops the overall winning project. The dip in the Dunker has had to be withdrawn but will be replaced with an equally memorable experience. We are delighted to also offer winners Golden Tickets to ride the HackTrain kindly provided by HackPartners. 

Photography

Please also note, by confirming your attendance to this event, you have agreed to the filming, video, photography and vox pops that will be taken throughout the weekend and the use of these images after the event. If you do not wish to be photographed/filmed please make us aware upon arrival at the event.

FAQs

Who do I contact with any questions?

Drop us an email

Is my registration/ticket transferrable to another person?

Yes, but please email us to amend our guestlist

Do I have to print my ticket for the event?

No you may bring it electronically, but you MUST bring ID e.g. driving licence or passport

What transport should I use to get to the event?

We recommend you use public transport to get here otherwise there is also opportunity to store your bicycles safely.

Can I spend the entire night at the venue?

The venue will be open until 9pm on both evenings, but if you wish to work later there are a number of local pubs and coffee shops with Wifi.

Do I need to bring my own computer/laptop?

Yes, it is recommended that that individuals bring their own devices

Is there food?

Yes unlimited snacks and your breakfast, lunch and dinner will be provided, please let us know if you have any dietary requirements.