Developer Forums
Are you attending the TCO finals as a spectator or finalist? Either way, be sure to attend the Developer Forums. This year’s TCO features two rewarding topics:
Wednesday, June 27
10:00AM - 11:00AM : Security in Group Developed
Software
One critical challenge IT management faces as
it adapts to an increasingly global workforce is how
to protect its company’s proprietary information
from being copied or exploited. As system
information is distributed across a global
workforce, it becomes much more difficult to manage
and secure this proprietary intellectual property.
The apparent risk this poses to a company’s most sensitive systems has created a perception of risk, causing many traditional IT organizations to avoid a strategy using a distributed global workforce for anything beyond run rate development. This hesitation prevents IT organizations from fully benefiting from the proven advantages of globalization.
This discussion will explore how the TopCoder Software Development Methodology protects sensitive client information at each phase of its unique software engineering process.
Wednesday, June 27
2:00PM - 3:00PM : The Power of Communities – And
Its Future
Communities can hold enormous power and exert
significant influence - far more so than any one
individual - IF, managed and channeled correctly. We
will examine the concept, and reality, of Community
Power - looking at the sources and structures that
influence the creation and growth of communities,
strengths and weaknesses of communities, how to
manage/channel this community power towards
producing value, and the future of communities. And
wrap this around, of course, how companies will, and
currently do, benefit from the every expanding power
and influence of the TopCoder community.
Getting your Visa and Getting it Early
Do I need a visa?
All
travelers entering the United States must present
either a passport or a visa. If you do NOT have a
passport, or you are from a country that does NOT
participate in the Visa Waiver Program, you must
apply for a visa.
The following countries DO NOT require a visa to
enter the United States:
http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1990.html#countries
Why should I get it early?
Getting your travel documents well in advance
of your travel dates is important. If you require a
visa, the application process could be lengthy. In
some countries, it can take over a month. We
strongly suggest you begin the process as soon as
possible.
What is involved in applying for a visa?
The visa application process is an interview
at the US Embassy explaining your trip to the United
States. You should apply for a travel/tourist visa
and be sure to let them know that you are only
staying in the United States for a short time. It’s
a good idea to have the following information
available at your interview:
-
An official letter of invitation from TopCoder (please see below)
-
Proof of residency in your home country
-
Evidence of employment and community ties, such as a copy of your marriage license or university documents
Your resume
How do I get an official invitation letter from
TopCoder?
As stated in the rules, all competitors must
request a visa invitation letter by 5:00 PM EDT
(GMT/UTC -4) on Monday, April 23, 2007.
Algorithm Competitors: All competitors who advance to Online Round 1 will receive a request form to fill out if they require a letter. As soon as a competitor fills out the form in its entirety, the letter will be shipped out by FedEx International Priority mail.
Component Competitors: All competitors who pass submission on at least one component will receive a request form to fill out if they require a letter. As soon as a competitor fills out the form in its entirety, the letter will be shipped out by FedEx International Priority mail.
Marathon Match Competitors: All competitors who advance to Online Round 4 will receive a request form to fill out if they require a letter. As soon as a competitor fills out the form in its entirety, the letter will be shipped out by FedEx International Priority mail.
Studio Design Competitors: All competitors who pass screening on at least 2 designs will receive a request form to fill out if they require a letter. As soon as a competitor fills out the form in its entirety, the letter will be shipped out by FedEx International Priority mail.
How do I apply for a visa?
Begin by visiting:
www.unitedstatesvisas.gov/obtainingvisa/index.html
or find your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate:
http://usembassy.state.gov
Remember, if you become a finalist in any competition, you MUST show proof of your visa and/or passport by the finalist deadline before TopCoder will book a flight for you. If you do not have your visa and/or passport by the appropriate date, you will be disqualified as a finalist. Please revisit the tournament rules for more information or email Jessie D’Amato Ford.