I’ve spent the last 2 days in sunny Stockholm (still with some snow around) at one of the most wonderful hackdays I’ve been to. Partly it was wonderful through not having to do any of the organising (compared to events we have at The Guardian), that job was wonderfully done by the lovely Paulina Söderlund Modlitba.

It was also wonderful through the beautiful surroundings of the Bonnier offices in Stockholm which are always a joy and privilege to visit. It was great though through the people that were there, such a great group of developers and service designers who made some great things. 

I should have probably concentrated on just one thing (actually I definitely should), rather than the four that almost emerged, but there are some germs of ideas to continue on and one I’ll describe in detail next. 

Anyone who says publishing and media companies can’t innovate is generalising to the detriment of people like Bonnier. Vast number of companies are hanging on to their legacy, Bonnier is building its future legacy and is doing it in a lovely collaborative and friendly way. 

Oh, and the most healthy and tasty catering I’ve ever seen at a hackday, although I’m glad the coffee and sugary drinks kept coming.

In my mind there was a clear winner, the beautiful Pictoriala from the CitySounds.fm team. I’m hoping that one develops. Just a beautiful serendipitous way of exploring the news that reminded me of a colour magazine and a coffee table book and a newspaper all at once.