What is PANOPTICON?

PANOPTICON is the second annual Design-A-Thon — a three-day design competition where teams race against time to solve one critical challenge.

The world wide web is a surveillance state: you can view the creations of the population, and in turn, they can view you and yours. How does design respond to — and influence — mass perception?

All meals provided, expert workshops, industry judges, and the adrenaline of working under pressure. No design experience required — just bring your curiosity, your team, and your determination.

  • Designers
  • Beginners
  • Developers
  • All UT Students!
Panopticon poster: a fuzzy blue creature with wide eyes peeks over a manila folder that reads 'Design at UT presents PANOPTICON, November 13th – 15th. Registration open now. Prizes, sponsors, free food.'

Who

UT Austin students

Undergrad or grad, all majors and skill levels.

Teams

Up to 4 people

Everyone on your team must register. Solo? We'll match you.

Cost

Free

Plus free meals, snacks, swag, and time with industry designers.

Awards

Three days under watch.

All times Central. Opening and closing happen at the Texas Union; Saturday is heads-down at the Gates Dell Complex.

Who's on stage.

Hover or tap a card to read more.

Level up between sprints.

Hands-on sessions run throughout Saturday at the Gates Dell Complex. Drop in whenever your team can spare you.

Meet your judges

Industry designers and engineers who'll be watching closely — and scoring visual design, usability, and innovation.

Watching out for us.

The companies and organizations that make Panopticon free for every attendee.

Want your brand in front of UT's design community? Sponsor workshops, prizes, food, or swag.

Become a partner

The watchers behind the wall.

DESIGN at UT brings the UT design community together to learn, create, and innovate.

Everything before you walk in.

All the important details before attending.

Still curious? Email designatut@gmail.com or DM @designatut.