What would you do with £500,000 to tackle a real policy problem—and could you prove your case with data?

Join Q-Step for an afternoon challenge combining data analysis, AI, visualisation and policy thinking. Working in teams, you’ll analyse a real dataset, identify the key problem, use AI and vibe-coding tools to build a simple browser-based dashboard or visual policy product, and pitch your recommendation to a panel of judges.

No advanced coding experience is required. The challenge rewards clear thinking, good use of evidence and the ability to turn analysis into a persuasive policy recommendation.

Email Adam Chalmers to reserve a place. Places are limited.

Date and time

Wednesday 28 October 2026, 13:00–17:00

Venue

Edinburgh Futures Institute (EFI), Room 1.50

Format

Teams · one afternoon · 3-minute final pitch

What you’ll do

Analyse—Find the signal

Use statistics and social-science judgement to work out what the data is really telling you.

Build—Make it visible

Use AI and vibe-coding tools to turn your analysis into a clear dashboard or visual policy product.

Pitch—Defend your decision

You’ll have 3 minutes to explain what you would do with the £500,000—and why.

What you’ll produce

A single HTML dashboard or visual policy product, plus a short final pitch.

Who can take part?

Q-Step students and other interested University of Edinburgh students are welcome. You can sign up as a team or individually; if you register on your own, we’ll match you with others.

Places are limited. Email Adam Chalmers to reserve a place.