Teamwork and Creativity: The Impact of Hobby Clubs and Hackathons at a Leading Video Game Company

In the bustling world of video game development, fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration is not just beneficial; it's essential. Companies like Ubisoft Singapore are leading the way by integrating hobby clubs and hackathons into their corporate culture, proving that work can indeed be play. This approach not only enhances employee satisfaction but also drives innovation in game development.

The Power of Play: Integrating Hobby Clubs

Ubisoft Singapore, a prominent triple-A game development studio known for blockbuster titles like Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry, has creatively woven hobby clubs into the fabric of its workplace. These clubs are more than just extracurricular activities; they are a strategic tool for fostering workplace collaboration and creativity. Leonard Yip, a 28-year-old scriptwriter at Ubisoft Singapore, shares his firsthand experience: "When I first came here, I didn’t expect to see this kind of engaging mood in an office space." His involvement in the combat sports club at Ubisoft not only allowed him to engage in physical activity but also helped him connect with colleagues on a deeper level, which translated into smoother collaboration on projects.

Ubisoft Singapore hosts over 30 active hobby clubs, ranging from running and knitting to meal preparation. These clubs operate organically, mostly after work hours, and serve as a unique way to blend personal interests with professional development. The diversity of clubs ensures that every employee can find something that resonates with their interests, promoting a sense of belonging and team spirit.

Hackathons: Catalysts for Innovation

Apart from hobby clubs, Ubisoft Singapore also emphasizes the importance of hackathons. These events are not just about coding; they are comprehensive workshops where ideas concerning game concepts or workplace improvements are encouraged and developed. Desiree Tan, the Human Resources Director at Ubisoft, notes, "We’ve always prided ourselves on being a teaching-learning studio." This ethos is vividly reflected in their hackathons, where employees from various departments come together to solve problems and explore new possibilities in game development.

Hackathons at Ubisoft are designed to be inclusive, fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of their technical expertise, can contribute. This inclusivity ensures a diverse range of ideas, driving innovation and creativity. Employees are encouraged to take ownership of their projects and see them through from conception to completion, providing a real sense of accomplishment and impact on the final product.

The Impact on Employee Development and Company Culture

The integration of hobby clubs and hackathons has profound implications for employee development and overall company culture. These initiatives help break down formal hierarchies and foster an environment where ideas can be freely shared and explored. They also contribute to employee satisfaction and retention by making the workplace more engaging and enjoyable.

Moreover, these activities align closely with the broader trends in the video game industry, where creativity and innovation are paramount. As noted in various studies, such as those on the impact of social relationships in the industry, fostering a collaborative and creative work environment is crucial for success

Ubisoft Singapore's approach to integrating hobby clubs and hackathons into their corporate culture is a testament to the power of play in professional settings. By doing so, they not only enhance their employees' work experience but also drive innovation in the competitive field of video game development. This model serves as an inspiring example for other companies in the industry, highlighting that fostering a collaborative and creative environment can lead to substantial benefits, both for employees and the company as a whole.