Our day started at Monarch Hall at Old Dominion University, where we gathered in a computer lab for the ODU & h2 Interdisciplinary Innovation Sprint. The day began with an introduction from Prof. Dr. Michael Herzog and Mr. Ajay Gupta. They explained the activities planned for the day and divided us into three teams. Each team was a mix of students from the VAST26 trip and Computer Science students from ODU. This gave us the opportunity to work with people from different academic and cultural backgrounds.
Opening session in the computer lab, introduction by Prof. Dr. Michael Herzog and Mr. Ajay Gupta
From an Idea to a Solution
The main challenge of the Innovation Sprint was to develop an idea for using Artificial Intelligence through a telephone-based service. The idea was similar to having an AI receptionist: instead of navigating through different websites or apps, a person could simply call a telephone number, explain their problem naturally, and interact with an AI assistant. The AI could understand the request, collect the necessary information, provide relevant guidance, and help direct the request to the appropriate service.
After the introduction, we started brainstorming within our teams. My group consisted of both VAST26 participants and ODU students, which made the teamwork particularly interesting because we could bring different skills and perspectives to the project.
Teams sitting together doing brainstorming and discussing ideas
Our Idea – CityConnect
After discussing different possibilities, our team developed CityConnect (AI-Powered Flooding & Drainage Help Hotline). The idea behind CityConnect was to make it easier for residents to report local flooding and drainage problems. For example, someone experiencing a flooded street, blocked drain, standing water, or another stormwater-related problem could simply call CityConnect. The AI assistant would communicate with the caller, understand the issue, collect important information such as the location and type of problem, and help direct the request to the appropriate city department.
Photos of CityConnect group while working
Working Together Across Different Fields
One of the most interesting parts of the Innovation Sprint was the interdisciplinary teamwork. We brainstormed together and discussed how our idea could work in a real-world situation.
The ODU Computer Science students focused mainly on developing the AI prototype, while the VAST26 students worked more on the business-related tasks and the overall concept. This division of tasks allowed everyone to contribute according to their background and experience. At the same time, we continued exchanging ideas throughout the development process.
During the day, we also had a lunch break together, with pizza provided for all participants. It was a nice opportunity to take a short break and continue our conversations in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Lunch break with Pizza and snacks during the day
Presenting CityConnect
After several hours of brainstorming, developing the concept, working on the prototype, and preparing our presentation, it was finally time to present our ideas. At around 5:00 PM, the final pitches began, with all three teams presenting the solutions they had developed during the day. It was interesting to see how all three groups had started with the same general AI challenge but developed their own ideas and approaches.
Pitch Photos in the Conference Room
Ending the Day Together
After completing the Innovation Sprint and the final presentations, we went together to No Frill Bar and Grill for dinner. It was a nice way to end an intensive day and spend some more time with the ODU students and other participants in a relaxed atmosphere. The dinner was kindly hosted by Mr. Ajay Gupta, and we sincerely appreciated his generous hospitality. It was a wonderful way to conclude a productive and memorable day at ODU.
Group photo at the restaurant with the Innovation Sprint participants (ODU & h2)
A Day of Innovation and Teamwork
Overall, the ODU Interdisciplinary Innovation Sprint was a great opportunity to experience how students from different academic backgrounds can work together on one challenge. It was also nice meeting and working with the ODU Computer Science students and getting to know them throughout the day. The combination of teamwork, technology, business thinking, and social interaction made the Innovation Sprint another memorable experience during our visit to Old Dominion University.
