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    Developer Forums

    Are you attending the TCO finals as a spectator or finalist? Either way, be sure to attend the Developer Forums. This year’s TCO features two rewarding topics:

    Wednesday, June 27
    10:00AM - 11:00AM : Security in Group Developed Software
    One critical challenge IT management faces as it adapts to an increasingly global workforce is how to protect its company’s proprietary information from being copied or exploited. As system information is distributed across a global workforce, it becomes much more difficult to manage and secure this proprietary intellectual property.

    The apparent risk this poses to a company’s most sensitive systems has created a perception of risk, causing many traditional IT organizations to avoid a strategy using a distributed global workforce for anything beyond run rate development. This hesitation prevents IT organizations from fully benefiting from the proven advantages of globalization.

    This discussion will explore how the TopCoder Software Development Methodology protects sensitive client information at each phase of its unique software engineering process.

    Wednesday, June 27
    2:00PM - 3:00PM : The Power of Communities – And Its Future
    Communities can hold enormous power and exert significant influence - far more so than any one individual - IF, managed and channeled correctly. We will examine the concept, and reality, of Community Power - looking at the sources and structures that influence the creation and growth of communities, strengths and weaknesses of communities, how to manage/channel this community power towards producing value, and the future of communities. And wrap this around, of course, how companies will, and currently do, benefit from the every expanding power and influence of the TopCoder community.

    Getting your Visa and Getting it Early

    Do I need a visa?
    All travelers entering the United States must present either a passport or a visa. If you do NOT have a passport, or you are from a country that does NOT participate in the Visa Waiver Program, you must apply for a visa.

    The following countries DO NOT require a visa to enter the United States:
    http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1990.html#countries

    Why should I get it early?
    Getting your travel documents well in advance of your travel dates is important. If you require a visa, the application process could be lengthy. In some countries, it can take over a month. We strongly suggest you begin the process as soon as possible.

    What is involved in applying for a visa?
    The visa application process is an interview at the US Embassy explaining your trip to the United States. You should apply for a travel/tourist visa and be sure to let them know that you are only staying in the United States for a short time. It’s a good idea to have the following information available at your interview:

    • An official letter of invitation from TopCoder (please see below)

    • Proof of residency in your home country

    • Evidence of employment and community ties, such as a copy of your marriage license or university documents

    • Your resume

    How do I get an official invitation letter from TopCoder?
    As stated in the rules, all competitors must request a visa invitation letter by 5:00 PM EDT (GMT/UTC -4) on Monday, April 23, 2007.

    Algorithm Competitors: All competitors who advance to Online Round 1 will receive a request form to fill out if they require a letter. As soon as a competitor fills out the form in its entirety, the letter will be shipped out by FedEx International Priority mail.

    Component Competitors: All competitors who pass submission on at least one component will receive a request form to fill out if they require a letter. As soon as a competitor fills out the form in its entirety, the letter will be shipped out by FedEx International Priority mail.

    Marathon Match Competitors: All competitors who advance to Online Round 4 will receive a request form to fill out if they require a letter. As soon as a competitor fills out the form in its entirety, the letter will be shipped out by FedEx International Priority mail.

    Studio Design Competitors: All competitors who pass screening on at least 2 designs will receive a request form to fill out if they require a letter. As soon as a competitor fills out the form in its entirety, the letter will be shipped out by FedEx International Priority mail.

    How do I apply for a visa?
    Begin by visiting: www.unitedstatesvisas.gov/obtainingvisa/index.html or find your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate: http://usembassy.state.gov

    Remember, if you become a finalist in any competition, you MUST show proof of your visa and/or passport by the finalist deadline before TopCoder will book a flight for you. If you do not have your visa and/or passport by the appropriate date, you will be disqualified as a finalist. Please revisit the tournament rules for more information or email Jessie D’Amato Ford.