Algot

Algot is a new, visual programming method optimised for low-threshold use, enabling individuals with little or no programming experience to develop complex software. The project aims to foster an active community and increase awareness among small and medium-sized enterprises in the Lake Constance region, while also guiding further development through practical application.

Opportunities through Algot

To develop customised software, in-depth skills in software engineering and knowledge of—ideally multiple—programming languages are usually required. Large companies typically have their own in-house IT development departments for this purpose. However, skilled professionals in this field are in short supply, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often lack the financial means to maintain their own IT departments, forcing them to outsource development projects. This is where Algot comes in. Algot is a programming method developed at ETH Zurich that requires not a single line of code. Software can be created using a visual, graph-based interface. Developers do not need to worry about managing data structures, declarations, or textual syntax, making it possible for individuals with little or no programming experience to build both simple and complex software applications. This also benefits computer science students in the early stages of their studies, as they can focus on underlying algorithmic thinking without being overwhelmed by programming syntax.

Project Objectives

The Algot project aims to build a strong and active Algot community. This will be achieved in three project phases:

1. Community Building and Playful Applications
   Hackathons, challenges, and other events will be organised to showcase Algot's versatility in a fun and engaging way.

2. Industry-Specific Use Cases
   Insights and outcomes from the first phase will be translated into real-world scenarios and practical applications for the associated partner organisations. Workshops and training sessions will be offered to professionals in selected industries.

3. Potential Analysis and Developer Community
   The findings from the first two phases will be thoroughly evaluated and summarised in a comprehensive potential analysis. The emerging community will continue to be supported through the provision of code examples and the organisation of further events.

Project partner

• ETH Zürich, Department Informatik,  https://inf.ethz.ch/
• Ostschweizer Fachhochschule OST, LowCodeLab, https://www.ost.ch/de/forschung-und-dienstleistungen/wirtschaft/ipm-institut-fuer-informations-und-prozessmanagement

Associated partners:

• Wirtschaftsstandort Vorarlberg GmbH, https://www.wisto.at/
• valantic CEC Schweiz GmbH, https://www.valantic.com/de/ 
• clownfish Information Technology, https://www.clownfish.at/
• Leica Geosystems AG, https://leica-geosystems.com/de-ch/