DataArt’s Proggy-Buggy Contest Draws Global IT Talent for Innovative Solutions

DataArt, a global software engineering firm specializing in data and AI, has successfully hosted the 2024 Proggy-Buggy Programming Contest, drawing a record-breaking number of participants worldwide. The competition, part of DataArt’s broader strategy to address the global tech talent shortage, serves as a platform for identifying and developing emerging programming talent while reinforcing its commitment to fostering industry growth through upskilling and education.

The Proggy-Buggy Contest challenged participants to solve 13 algorithmic problems within 42 minutes, a tribute to The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams. Competitors, ranging from high school students to seasoned professionals, were tasked with developing console applications using various programming languages. The competition included unique "undecidable problems" encouraging innovative and critical thinking.

Offline Hubs provided participants with opportunities for collaboration and networking, blending the advantages of virtual participation with the benefits of face-to-face interaction.

The 2024 Proggy-Buggy Contest set new records with 2,570 participants, a 45% increase from 2023. Gender diversity included 579 women (up from 342 earlier this year), marking the first time female contestants ranked in the Top 10. Age groups ranged from under 18 (509 participants) to 45+ (47 participants), with a 27% increase in first-time competitors.

Employment profiles spanned secondary school students (218), university students (1,910), and developers (334). Country-specific milestones included doubled participation in Serbia, expanded programming networks in Kazakhstan, and Cyprus hosting its first Offline Hub. Poland and Ukraine strengthened ties with local programming communities and coaches.

The Proggy-Buggy Contest is a strategic initiative by DataArt to foster new talent and address the global tech talent shortage. Designed to equip participants with essential programming and problem-solving skills, the contest prepares them for success in today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape.

The benefits extend beyond participants. DataArt engineers develop the original challenges presented in the contest each year, promoting innovation, critical thinking, and an acute understanding of current industry demands. This process ensures that DataArt’s teams stay ahead of technological advancements, continuously refining their expertise.

By investing in initiatives like Proggy-Buggy, DataArt strengthens the broader IT ecosystem while reinforcing its position as a partner committed to helping clients overcome industry challenges and achieve impactful results.

The next Proggy-Buggy Contest will take place on May 25, 2025. DataArt invites programming enthusiasts of all levels to join the upcoming event and contribute to advancing the programming community worldwide.

Since its inception in 2013, the Proggy-Buggy Contest has attracted over 10,000 participants from 60 countries. Hosted biannually, it supports programming talent development while addressing industry-wide challenges. Recognized with the Ukrainian HR Brand Award in 2023, the contest remains a cornerstone of DataArt’s commitment to fostering skills and creating value for clients and the broader tech ecosystem.

For full results and training resources, visit the contest website https://proggy-buggy.com/

Founded in 1997, DataArt is a leading global software engineering firm and the partner for progress in the digital age. Guided by our people-first principle, our world-class team designs and engineers data-driven, cloud-native solutions that generate immediate and enduring business value. Through our 20+ domain-specific Labs dedicated to R&D and strategic innovation, we work together with our clients to ensure they stay on the leading edge.

Headquartered in New York City, DataArt brings together 5,000+ experts across 40+ locations in the US, Europe, Latin America, India, and the Middle East, with clients including major global brands like Priceline, Ocado Technology, Legal & General, and Flutter Entertainment. Recognized as a 2023 Newsweek Most Loved Global Workplace and 13 times as an Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Private Company, we are proud of our reputation as a great place to work and partner with.