{"id":33836,"date":"2025-11-03T05:55:00","date_gmt":"2025-11-03T05:55:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/about.35.197.208.187.nip.io\/?p=33836"},"modified":"2025-11-26T12:14:03","modified_gmt":"2025-11-26T12:14:03","slug":"planning-the-selection-process-for-your-competition","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/insights\/planning-the-selection-process-for-your-competition\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Plan Your Awards Selection Process: Judging, Rounds &amp; Criteria"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group toc has-base-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-c385debf wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<p><strong>This article covers:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-checkmark-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#common-mistakes\" title=\"\">Common mistakes when planning selection<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#working-backwards\" title=\"\">Working backwards from your ideal candidate<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#calculating-effort\" title=\"\">Calculating how much effort judging will take<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#filtering-rounds\" title=\"\">Filtering in rounds<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#what-to-submit\" title=\"\">What needs to be submitted<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#inviting-judges\" title=\"\">Inviting judges to help select<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#judging-criteria\" title=\"\">Setting judging criteria<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#anonymous-selection\" title=\"\">Anonymous selection<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#public-vote\" title=\"\">Running a public vote<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>You should know how you&#8217;ll select winners before submissions open. Sounds obvious, doesn&#8217;t it? Yet some programmes leave this planning until after entries start coming in, which lights the fuse to potentially complicated complicated situation later on (are you going to ask everyone who already submitted to fill in a few more questions?).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Early clarity helps you define what information you actually need, reduce candidate enquiries, and <a href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/insights\/planning-the-schedule-of-your-competition\/\" title=\"\">plan realistic timelines<\/a>. It&#8217;s also vital if you&#8217;re inviting external judges to help with selection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Knowing how you&#8217;ll select successful candidates helps you communicate what you&#8217;re looking for in your guidelines and get the best out of every application made to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-bottom:0\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-x-large-font-size\" id=\"common-mistakes\"><strong>Common Mistakes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When crafting your competition, you&#8217;re likely to focus more on the next actionable step (submissions opening, for instance) and less on the processes that come afterwards. Doing so will likely lead to problems later on. Here are a couple of examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Missing data to allow you to make your selection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Applications not fitting your exact needs. This usually means your <a href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/insights\/defining-your-purpose\/\" title=\"\">purpose and goals<\/a> weren&#8217;t clearly communicated from the start<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Processing too many heavy applications in too little time<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Judges finding it difficult to score so many unexpected entries<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-267b2dbf wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<p class=\"has-body-font-family has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"triangle-exclamation\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-triangle-exclamation\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M256 32c14.2 0 27.3 7.5 34.5 19.8l216 368c7.3 12.4 7.3 27.7 .2 40.1S486.3 480 472 480L40 480c-14.3 0-27.6-7.7-34.7-20.1s-7-27.8 .2-40.1l216-368C228.7 39.5 241.8 32 256 32zm0 128c-13.3 0-24 10.7-24 24l0 112c0 13.3 10.7 24 24 24s24-10.7 24-24l0-112c0-13.3-10.7-24-24-24zm32 224a32 32 0 1 0 -64 0 32 32 0 1 0 64 0z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span> <strong>Transparency builds trust<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern programmes provide candidates with judging criteria visibility upfront and transparent timelines. The best platforms send automatic updates when entries move through rounds, eliminating the flood of &#8220;when will I hear back?&#8221; emails. Candidates appreciate knowing their application was reviewed rather than disappeared into a black hole. This transparency builds trust and increases return submissions for future programmes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Focusing on your selection first saves you hours of firefighting later and gives everyone a better experience.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-bottom:0\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-x-large-font-size\" id=\"working-backwards\"><strong>Working backwards<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When planning your new programme, work backwards through your process. Start with what kind of candidate will be successful and work back towards the process of submitting. To reap the benefits of foresight, you need to do so before you launch your programme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Questions worth asking yourself, in order, are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What criteria do you need for someone to be successful?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How are you going to select them? (number of rounds, for instance)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>When are you going to pick successful candidates?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Who is going to pick successful candidates? (and in which round?)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What information do you need from candidates to make your selection?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Getting this information right from the start is crucial. Learn more about <a href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/insights\/what-to-ask-for-when-candidates-submit\/\" title=\"\">what to ask for when candidates submit<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-267b2dbf wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<p class=\"has-body-font-family has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"users\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-users\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 640 512\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M144 0a80 80 0 1 1 0 160A80 80 0 1 1 144 0zM512 0a80 80 0 1 1 0 160A80 80 0 1 1 512 0zM0 298.7C0 239.8 47.8 192 106.7 192l42.7 0c15.9 0 31 3.5 44.6 9.7c-1.3 7.2-1.9 14.7-1.9 22.3c0 38.2 16.8 72.5 43.3 96c-.2 0-.4 0-.7 0L21.3 320C9.6 320 0 310.4 0 298.7zM405.3 320c-.2 0-.4 0-.7 0c26.6-23.5 43.3-57.8 43.3-96c0-7.6-.7-15-1.9-22.3c13.6-6.3 28.7-9.7 44.6-9.7l42.7 0C592.2 192 640 239.8 640 298.7c0 11.8-9.6 21.3-21.3 21.3l-213.3 0zM224 224a96 96 0 1 1 192 0 96 96 0 1 1 -192 0zM128 485.3C128 411.7 187.7 352 261.3 352l117.3 0C452.3 352 512 411.7 512 485.3c0 14.7-11.9 26.7-26.7 26.7l-330.7 0c-14.7 0-26.7-11.9-26.7-26.7z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span> <strong>Fostering diversity &amp; inclusion<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Answering all the questions above will allow you to review your process and route out any systematic discrimination early. Are your selection criteria fair? Could you be asking for too much? Are those making the selection diverse and impartial?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\"><strong>When should each judging stage happen?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Timing your selection process realistically prevents bottlenecks. For a programme receiving 1,500 entries:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Initial review (compliance check):<\/strong> 1-2 weeks after submissions close<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Round 1 (internal team):<\/strong> 2-3 weeks to filter 1,500 down to 200<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Round 2 (external panel):<\/strong> 3-4 weeks for detailed review of top 200<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Final decision:<\/strong> 1 week for discussion and confirmation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Total:<\/strong> 7-10 weeks from submission deadline to announcement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>First-time programmes often underestimate how long it will take them. If you think judging will take four weeks, plan for six. Rushed judging leads to poor decisions and burnt-out judges with a bitter taste left in their mouths.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"top-post-cta\" class=\"wp-block-group top_post_cta has-base-2-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-ead219762bcc1c462ed6c2056d53965a has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-34d7f7af wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;background:linear-gradient(103deg,rgba(242,145,160,0.7) 0%,rgba(187,215,242,0.73) 70%);margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-contrast-color has-base-2-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-35626ede75d32280e57e9f0344fb15d5 has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-e4a18999 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-contrast-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8536a955ce3b9176b8984c5730bb22c9\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0.2rem\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"list-check\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-list-check \" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\" style=\"font-size:1.4em\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M133.8 36.3c10.9 7.6 13.5 22.6 5.9 33.4l-56 80c-4.1 5.8-10.5 9.5-17.6 10.1S52 158 47 153L7 113C-2.3 103.6-2.3 88.4 7 79S31.6 69.7 41 79l19.8 19.8 39.6-56.6c7.6-10.9 22.6-13.5 33.4-5.9zm0 160c10.9 7.6 13.5 22.6 5.9 33.4l-56 80c-4.1 5.8-10.5 9.5-17.6 10.1S52 318 47 313L7 273c-9.4-9.4-9.4-24.6 0-33.9s24.6-9.4 33.9 0l19.8 19.8 39.6-56.6c7.6-10.9 22.6-13.5 33.4-5.9zM224 96c0-17.7 14.3-32 32-32l224 0c17.7 0 32 14.3 32 32s-14.3 32-32 32l-224 0c-17.7 0-32-14.3-32-32zm0 160c0-17.7 14.3-32 32-32l224 0c17.7 0 32 14.3 32 32s-14.3 32-32 32l-224 0c-17.7 0-32-14.3-32-32zM160 416c0-17.7 14.3-32 32-32l288 0c17.7 0 32 14.3 32 32s-14.3 32-32 32l-288 0c-17.7 0-32-14.3-32-32zM64 376a40 40 0 1 1 0 80 40 40 0 1 1 0-80z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center cta_text content_mid_cta has-link-color has-large-font-size wp-elements-c41f21bc37c7849d15c85a341bf756f3\">Download launch checklist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Never miss a critical step: 300+ tasks across 8 phases, from securing judges to winner announcement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-a89b3969 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button primary-cta\" id=\"host-launch-checklist-mid-cta\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/awards-resources\/competition-launch-checklist\/\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.156), 1rem);\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"envelope\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-envelope \" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M48 64C21.5 64 0 85.5 0 112c0 15.1 7.1 29.3 19.2 38.4L236.8 313.6c11.4 8.5 27 8.5 38.4 0L492.8 150.4c12.1-9.1 19.2-23.3 19.2-38.4c0-26.5-21.5-48-48-48H48zM0 176V384c0 35.3 28.7 64 64 64H448c35.3 0 64-28.7 64-64V176L294.4 339.2c-22.8 17.1-54 17.1-76.8 0L0 176z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span> Get Checklist<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-bottom:0\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-x-large-font-size\" id=\"calculating-effort\"><strong>Calculating effort<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The more popular your opportunity is, the more effort it will be to make your selection. If this is your first, it may be hard to model how many submissions you&#8217;ll get. Planning for the most demanding scenario will allow you to cope regardless of the success of your competition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Calculate judging effort in four steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-267b2dbf wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<p class=\"has-body-font-family has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"calculator\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-calculator\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 384 512\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M64 0C28.7 0 0 28.7 0 64L0 448c0 35.3 28.7 64 64 64l256 0c35.3 0 64-28.7 64-64l0-384c0-35.3-28.7-64-64-64L64 0zM96 64l192 0c17.7 0 32 14.3 32 32l0 32c0 17.7-14.3 32-32 32L96 160c-17.7 0-32-14.3-32-32l0-32c0-17.7 14.3-32 32-32zm32 160a32 32 0 1 1 -64 0 32 32 0 1 1 64 0zM96 352a32 32 0 1 1 0-64 32 32 0 1 1 0 64zM64 416c0-17.7 14.3-32 32-32l96 0c17.7 0 32 14.3 32 32s-14.3 32-32 32l-96 0c-17.7 0-32-14.3-32-32zM192 256a32 32 0 1 1 0-64 32 32 0 1 1 0 64zm32 64a32 32 0 1 1 -64 0 32 32 0 1 1 64 0zm64-64a32 32 0 1 1 0-64 32 32 0 1 1 0 64zm32 64a32 32 0 1 1 -64 0 32 32 0 1 1 64 0zM288 448a32 32 0 1 1 0-64 32 32 0 1 1 0 64z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span> <strong>How to calculate judging time<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1. Establish how many submissions you&#8217;ll get.<\/strong> Picking a number isn&#8217;t easy (especially if this is your first), so instead, think of it as a range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Example: between 1,200 to 1,800 entries<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2. To be safe, add 20% to your upper range.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Example: 2,160 (1,800 \u00d7 1.2)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3. Think about how long it will take for someone to process one application.<\/strong> If you&#8217;re unsure, do a dress rehearsal. Create an example submission (make it as legitimate as possible) and give it to someone with your criteria for selection. Then time them to see how long it takes to make a decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Example 1: An image &amp; description could be processed in a few seconds<br>Example 2: A short film and five questions could take you 10 minutes<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don&#8217;t forget to count time navigating from one image to the next &#8211; this could be quick if it&#8217;s clicking a button &#8211; but slower with email and spreadsheets in between.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4. To calculate the total effort for processing entries, multiply your maximum applications by the average amount of time it will take you to process them.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Example 1: 12 hours = 2,160 \u00d7 10 seconds (1.5 days with an 8 hours workday)<br>Example 2: 120 hours = 2,160 \u00d7 10 minutes (15 days with an 8 hours workday)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Absolutely. 15 days of pure processing sounds absurd. That&#8217;s why you have rounds to process entries quicker at the start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Knowing how long processing the maximum amount of applications will take allows you to plan for sufficient time. This may push you to rethink your process to reduce the time taken to go through each application. If you&#8217;re drowning in spreadsheets, explore <a href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/submissions-management-platform\/\" title=\"\">modern tools for managing submissions<\/a> that can cut processing time by 60% to 80%.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-bottom:0\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-x-large-font-size\" id=\"filtering-rounds\"><strong>Filtering in Rounds<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You may need to seriously consider selecting candidates across rounds if you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Expect more than a couple of hundred submissions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Want to guarantee the quality of the submissions going onto your judges<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wish to allow your community to help choose winners<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Need to manually check entries fulfil specific criteria before moving them onto the next stage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Want to mix all the above (you could have a round for each if you need it)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As already covered above, it can take a long time to process submissions. Breaking your decision making into rounds allows you to reduce the time taken processing applications in earlier rounds and spending more time per submission in later rounds. An ideal structure for large programmes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow has-merriweather-font-family has-large-font-size\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<p><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"quote-left\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-quote-left\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M0 216C0 149.7 53.7 96 120 96l8 0c17.7 0 32 14.3 32 32s-14.3 32-32 32l-8 0c-30.9 0-56 25.1-56 56l0 8 64 0c35.3 0 64 28.7 64 64l0 64c0 35.3-28.7 64-64 64l-64 0c-35.3 0-64-28.7-64-64l0-32 0-32 0-72zm256 0c0-66.3 53.7-120 120-120l8 0c17.7 0 32 14.3 32 32s-14.3 32-32 32l-8 0c-30.9 0-56 25.1-56 56l0 8 64 0c35.3 0 64 28.7 64 64l0 64c0 35.3-28.7 64-64 64l-64 0c-35.3 0-64-28.7-64-64l0-32 0-32 0-72z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><br>Keep earlier round light touch, selecting entries in seconds instead of minutes, focusing high level judges efforts on the best entries later on.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What about timelines?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you have established if you want any rounds, draft a quick timeline of dates in your process. Remember to give your judges and yourselves plenty of time. A three-round structure might look like: Round 1 (2 weeks, yes\/no decisions, internal team), Round 2 (3 weeks, scoring out of 10, mixed panel), Round 3 (3 weeks, detailed criteria, external experts). Total: 8 weeks judging time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-267b2dbf wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<p class=\"has-body-font-family has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"lightbulb\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-lightbulb\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 384 512\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M272 384c9.6-31.9 29.5-59.1 49.2-86.2c0 0 0 0 0 0c5.2-7.1 10.4-14.2 15.4-21.4c19.8-28.5 31.4-63 31.4-100.3C368 78.8 289.2 0 192 0S16 78.8 16 176c0 37.3 11.6 71.9 31.4 100.3c5 7.2 10.2 14.3 15.4 21.4c0 0 0 0 0 0c19.8 27.1 39.7 54.4 49.2 86.2l160 0zM192 512c44.2 0 80-35.8 80-80l0-16-160 0 0 16c0 44.2 35.8 80 80 80zM112 176c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16c0-61.9 50.1-112 112-112c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16c-44.2 0-80 35.8-80 80z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span> <strong>How modern platforms simplify rounds<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Managing multiple rounds manually means downloading spreadsheets, copying data between sheets, and emailing judges individual batches of entries. It&#8217;s error-prone and time-consuming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern awards platforms should let you configure any number of rounds upfront, automatically progress entries based on scores, and give each judge access only to their assigned round. Judges log in to see exactly their allocation. No spreadsheets, no manual coordination, no entries accidentally duplicated or missed between rounds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-267b2dbf wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<p class=\"has-body-font-family has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"users\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-users\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 640 512\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M144 0a80 80 0 1 1 0 160A80 80 0 1 1 144 0zM512 0a80 80 0 1 1 0 160A80 80 0 1 1 512 0zM0 298.7C0 239.8 47.8 192 106.7 192l42.7 0c15.9 0 31 3.5 44.6 9.7c-1.3 7.2-1.9 14.7-1.9 22.3c0 38.2 16.8 72.5 43.3 96c-.2 0-.4 0-.7 0L21.3 320C9.6 320 0 310.4 0 298.7zM405.3 320c-.2 0-.4 0-.7 0c26.6-23.5 43.3-57.8 43.3-96c0-7.6-.7-15-1.9-22.3c13.6-6.3 28.7-9.7 44.6-9.7l42.7 0C592.2 192 640 239.8 640 298.7c0 11.8-9.6 21.3-21.3 21.3l-213.3 0zM224 224a96 96 0 1 1 192 0 96 96 0 1 1 -192 0zM128 485.3C128 411.7 187.7 352 261.3 352l117.3 0C452.3 352 512 411.7 512 485.3c0 14.7-11.9 26.7-26.7 26.7l-330.7 0c-14.7 0-26.7-11.9-26.7-26.7z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>  <strong>Fostering diversity &amp; inclusion<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rounds allow you to view a more manageable snapshot of the candidates going onto the next stage and question if unconscious bias came into play when making that selection.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-2-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-515c3f106323f79451d2306e7d591c2e has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-34d7f7af wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;background:linear-gradient(143deg,rgba(127,219,202,0.61) 21%,rgba(255,107,107,0.45) 74%);margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-contrast-color has-base-2-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-a010d6200a7e32bad37e80b21d4e1c95 has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32abe225 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center cta_text content_mid_cta has-link-color has-large-font-size wp-elements-b167b480f0a97ca07872b7020eb348f6\">Want more articles like this?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Give this one a like<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-a763ec69 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n\t\t<div class=\"wpulike wpulike-animated-heart  wpulike-is-pro\" ><div class=\"wp_ulike_general_class wp_ulike_is_restricted\"><button type=\"button\"\n\t\t\t\t\taria-label=\"Like Button\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-id=\"33836\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-nonce=\"e44bb87d7e\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-type=\"post\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-template=\"wpulike-animated-heart\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-display-likers=\"\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-likers-style=\"popover\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-append=\"&lt;svg class=&quot;wpulike-svg-heart wpulike-svg-heart-pop one&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 32 29.6&quot;&gt;&lt;path d=&quot;M23.6,0c-3.4,0-6.3,2.7-7.6,5.6C14.7,2.7,11.8,0,8.4,0C3.8,0,0,3.8,0,8.4c0,9.4,9.5,11.9,16,21.2c6.1-9.3,16-12.1,16-21.2C32,3.8,28.2,0,23.6,0z&quot;\/&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;&lt;svg class=&quot;wpulike-svg-heart wpulike-svg-heart-pop two&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 32 29.6&quot;&gt;&lt;path d=&quot;M23.6,0c-3.4,0-6.3,2.7-7.6,5.6C14.7,2.7,11.8,0,8.4,0C3.8,0,0,3.8,0,8.4c0,9.4,9.5,11.9,16,21.2c6.1-9.3,16-12.1,16-21.2C32,3.8,28.2,0,23.6,0z&quot;\/&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;&lt;svg class=&quot;wpulike-svg-heart wpulike-svg-heart-pop three&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 32 29.6&quot;&gt;&lt;path d=&quot;M23.6,0c-3.4,0-6.3,2.7-7.6,5.6C14.7,2.7,11.8,0,8.4,0C3.8,0,0,3.8,0,8.4c0,9.4,9.5,11.9,16,21.2c6.1-9.3,16-12.1,16-21.2C32,3.8,28.2,0,23.6,0z&quot;\/&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;&lt;svg class=&quot;wpulike-svg-heart wpulike-svg-heart-pop four&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 32 29.6&quot;&gt;&lt;path d=&quot;M23.6,0c-3.4,0-6.3,2.7-7.6,5.6C14.7,2.7,11.8,0,8.4,0C3.8,0,0,3.8,0,8.4c0,9.4,9.5,11.9,16,21.2c6.1-9.3,16-12.1,16-21.2C32,3.8,28.2,0,23.6,0z&quot;\/&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;&lt;svg class=&quot;wpulike-svg-heart wpulike-svg-heart-pop five&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 32 29.6&quot;&gt;&lt;path d=&quot;M23.6,0c-3.4,0-6.3,2.7-7.6,5.6C14.7,2.7,11.8,0,8.4,0C3.8,0,0,3.8,0,8.4c0,9.4,9.5,11.9,16,21.2c6.1-9.3,16-12.1,16-21.2C32,3.8,28.2,0,23.6,0z&quot;\/&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;&lt;svg class=&quot;wpulike-svg-heart wpulike-svg-heart-pop six&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 32 29.6&quot;&gt;&lt;path d=&quot;M23.6,0c-3.4,0-6.3,2.7-7.6,5.6C14.7,2.7,11.8,0,8.4,0C3.8,0,0,3.8,0,8.4c0,9.4,9.5,11.9,16,21.2c6.1-9.3,16-12.1,16-21.2C32,3.8,28.2,0,23.6,0z&quot;\/&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;&lt;svg class=&quot;wpulike-svg-heart wpulike-svg-heart-pop seven&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 32 29.6&quot;&gt;&lt;path d=&quot;M23.6,0c-3.4,0-6.3,2.7-7.6,5.6C14.7,2.7,11.8,0,8.4,0C3.8,0,0,3.8,0,8.4c0,9.4,9.5,11.9,16,21.2c6.1-9.3,16-12.1,16-21.2C32,3.8,28.2,0,23.6,0z&quot;\/&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;&lt;svg class=&quot;wpulike-svg-heart wpulike-svg-heart-pop eight&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 32 29.6&quot;&gt;&lt;path d=&quot;M23.6,0c-3.4,0-6.3,2.7-7.6,5.6C14.7,2.7,11.8,0,8.4,0C3.8,0,0,3.8,0,8.4c0,9.4,9.5,11.9,16,21.2c6.1-9.3,16-12.1,16-21.2C32,3.8,28.2,0,23.6,0z&quot;\/&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;&lt;svg class=&quot;wpulike-svg-heart wpulike-svg-heart-pop nine&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 32 29.6&quot;&gt;&lt;path d=&quot;M23.6,0c-3.4,0-6.3,2.7-7.6,5.6C14.7,2.7,11.8,0,8.4,0C3.8,0,0,3.8,0,8.4c0,9.4,9.5,11.9,16,21.2c6.1-9.3,16-12.1,16-21.2C32,3.8,28.2,0,23.6,0z&quot;\/&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;\"\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"wp_ulike_btn wp_ulike_put_image wp_post_btn_33836\"><svg class=\"wpulike-svg-heart wpulike-svg-heart-icon\" viewBox=\"0 -28 512.00002 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path\n\t\t\t\t\t\td=\"m471.382812 44.578125c-26.503906-28.746094-62.871093-44.578125-102.410156-44.578125-29.554687 0-56.621094 9.34375-80.449218 27.769531-12.023438 9.300781-22.917969 20.679688-32.523438 33.960938-9.601562-13.277344-20.5-24.660157-32.527344-33.960938-23.824218-18.425781-50.890625-27.769531-80.445312-27.769531-39.539063 0-75.910156 15.832031-102.414063 44.578125-26.1875 28.410156-40.613281 67.222656-40.613281 109.292969 0 43.300781 16.136719 82.9375 50.78125 124.742187 30.992188 37.394531 75.535156 75.355469 127.117188 119.3125 17.613281 15.011719 37.578124 32.027344 58.308593 50.152344 5.476563 4.796875 12.503907 7.4375 19.792969 7.4375 7.285156 0 14.316406-2.640625 19.785156-7.429687 20.730469-18.128907 40.707032-35.152344 58.328125-50.171876 51.574219-43.949218 96.117188-81.90625 127.109375-119.304687 34.644532-41.800781 50.777344-81.4375 50.777344-124.742187 0-42.066407-14.425781-80.878907-40.617188-109.289063zm0 0\" \/><\/svg><\/button><span class=\"count-box wp_ulike_counter_up\" data-ulike-counter-value=\"+3\"><\/span>\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-bottom:0\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-x-large-font-size\" id=\"what-to-submit\"><strong>What needs to be submitted<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Asking for large amounts of information when people submit will seriously slow down your selection process. Asking for too little could make it hard for you to differentiate successful candidates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rethink what information you need from candidates and keep it to an absolute minimum whilst allowing you to make a meaningful decision. You may also wish to hide answers to specific questions from judges to lighten their loads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\"><strong>Hiding information from judges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Not every field candidates complete needs to reach your judges. You might collect demographic data for reporting but hide it during judging to reduce bias. Common fields to consider hiding:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Educational background (can create elitism)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Age or career stage (for &#8220;emerging talent&#8221; definitions)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Location (when unnecessary for selection)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Organisation name (in early rounds)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Marketing data (where did you hear about us&#8230;)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern award management platforms let you control precisely what each judge sees at each stage. Use this to keep early rounds focused and fast (fewer fields to review) whilst revealing more context in finals when deeper evaluation matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you expect many submissions, a good rule is to keep the process lighter for earlier rounds and gradually go into more detail for later rounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-267b2dbf wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<p class=\"has-body-font-family has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"users\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-users\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 640 512\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M144 0a80 80 0 1 1 0 160A80 80 0 1 1 144 0zM512 0a80 80 0 1 1 0 160A80 80 0 1 1 512 0zM0 298.7C0 239.8 47.8 192 106.7 192l42.7 0c15.9 0 31 3.5 44.6 9.7c-1.3 7.2-1.9 14.7-1.9 22.3c0 38.2 16.8 72.5 43.3 96c-.2 0-.4 0-.7 0L21.3 320C9.6 320 0 310.4 0 298.7zM405.3 320c-.2 0-.4 0-.7 0c26.6-23.5 43.3-57.8 43.3-96c0-7.6-.7-15-1.9-22.3c13.6-6.3 28.7-9.7 44.6-9.7l42.7 0C592.2 192 640 239.8 640 298.7c0 11.8-9.6 21.3-21.3 21.3l-213.3 0zM224 224a96 96 0 1 1 192 0 96 96 0 1 1 -192 0zM128 485.3C128 411.7 187.7 352 261.3 352l117.3 0C452.3 352 512 411.7 512 485.3c0 14.7-11.9 26.7-26.7 26.7l-330.7 0c-14.7 0-26.7-11.9-26.7-26.7z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span> <strong>Fostering diversity &amp; inclusion<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The data points you focus on may lead to systematic discrimination. Education, for instance. Review each one and think about the repercussions of using them as part of your selection process.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-bottom:0\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-x-large-font-size\" id=\"inviting-judges\"><strong>Inviting Judges<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Inviting judges allow you to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Share the workloads internally at earlier rounds<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduce bias by having multiple people help with the selection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inspire candidates to submit with big names linked to your competition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Represent your community in your selection process<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Including members of your organisation and partners in earlier rounds allows you to open dialogue around the work submitted to your programme. People will often feel proud to be asked and enjoy experiencing the impact of the programme you&#8217;re running.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Getting external members of your communities and more recognisable names to take part is particularly useful for later rounds. You should not be using their time to qualify hundreds of submissions (checking compliance, meeting specific criteria, and so on); instead, you should aim to capture their individual opinions on the best entries submitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember, inviting external judges requires a very clear ask. Do not swamp them with work. Be sure to have a round before theirs so you can control the number of submissions they will have to go through. Need help securing those big names? Our guide on <a href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/insights\/how-to-approach-judges-for-competitions\/\" title=\"\">approaching judges for competitions<\/a> covers exactly what to say and when.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-267b2dbf wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<p class=\"has-body-font-family has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"clock\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-clock\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M256 0a256 256 0 1 1 0 512A256 256 0 1 1 256 0zM232 120l0 136c0 8 4 15.5 10.7 20l96 64c11 7.4 25.9 4.4 33.3-6.7s4.4-25.9-6.7-33.3L280 243.2 280 120c0-13.3-10.7-24-24-24s-24 10.7-24 24z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span> <strong>Judge recruitment takes longer than you think<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>High-level judges need 4-8 weeks notice minimum, often longer if they&#8217;re in demand. Some will decline, so build in buffer time to secure replacements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start approaching judges before submissions even open. This achieves two things: their names can feature in your marketing (boosting submissions), and you&#8217;ll know your judging capacity before entries flood in. Nothing&#8217;s worse than receiving 2,000 submissions only to discover your dream judge is unavailable for the next three months.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Judges appreciate platforms where they can see their progress (&#8220;You&#8217;ve scored 24 of 50 entries,&#8221; for instance), save draft scores, and access entries on any device. These seemingly small features make the difference between a judge completing their allocation on time versus abandoning halfway through. When approaching external judges, being able to say &#8220;our platform makes judging take 30 minutes instead of 3 hours&#8221; dramatically improves acceptance rates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If paying judges, rounds let you control costs. Three internal staff reviewing 1,500 entries at Round 1 costs far less than five external experts each paid \u00a3500 doing the same work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-267b2dbf wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<p class=\"has-body-font-family has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"users\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-users\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 640 512\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M144 0a80 80 0 1 1 0 160A80 80 0 1 1 144 0zM512 0a80 80 0 1 1 0 160A80 80 0 1 1 512 0zM0 298.7C0 239.8 47.8 192 106.7 192l42.7 0c15.9 0 31 3.5 44.6 9.7c-1.3 7.2-1.9 14.7-1.9 22.3c0 38.2 16.8 72.5 43.3 96c-.2 0-.4 0-.7 0L21.3 320C9.6 320 0 310.4 0 298.7zM405.3 320c-.2 0-.4 0-.7 0c26.6-23.5 43.3-57.8 43.3-96c0-7.6-.7-15-1.9-22.3c13.6-6.3 28.7-9.7 44.6-9.7l42.7 0C592.2 192 640 239.8 640 298.7c0 11.8-9.6 21.3-21.3 21.3l-213.3 0zM224 224a96 96 0 1 1 192 0 96 96 0 1 1 -192 0zM128 485.3C128 411.7 187.7 352 261.3 352l117.3 0C452.3 352 512 411.7 512 485.3c0 14.7-11.9 26.7-26.7 26.7l-330.7 0c-14.7 0-26.7-11.9-26.7-26.7z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span> <strong>Fostering diversity &amp; inclusion<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The more diverse your judging panel is, the less biased your selection is likely to be. But remember some judges from backgrounds you celebrate may not be able to gift you time, and if they do it will be limited. Making the process as quick as possible will be the difference between a high-level judge accepting your request and declining it.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-bottom:0\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-x-large-font-size\" id=\"judging-criteria\"><strong>Judging criteria<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Having judges is one thing. Making sure the judges know what is required of them is another. What should the judges be looking at when making their decision? What makes for a successful candidate?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Drafting a shortlist of criteria and how important they are in your decision-making process will allow you to formalise how you will select successful candidates. Criteria could be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A simple Yes, No, Maybe<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A total score out of ten<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A sum of scores relating to specific criteria (eight points for Originality, twelve for Execution, thirty for Purpose, and so on)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember that each decision you ask a judge to make will slow the process down, so try to keep criteria to a minimum in earlier rounds (Yes\/No\/Maybe, for instance) and allow for richer criteria in the later rounds (a score out of 10 for Originality, Execution, Purpose). A good rule of thumb is 5 is an ideal maximum amount of criteria (8 at a push).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another benefit of knowing your criteria before your submissions open is that you can share them <a href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/insights\/writing-the-perfect-guidelines-for-your-competition\/\" title=\"\">in your guidelines<\/a> allowing candidates to make submissions that better match your requirements.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group mid_post_cta has-base-2-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-83858da6ced582519ce63fcfd9662766 has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-34d7f7af wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;background:linear-gradient(103deg,rgba(242,145,160,0.7) 0%,rgba(187,215,242,0.73) 70%);margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<div id=\"mid-cta-a\" class=\"wp-block-group has-contrast-color has-base-2-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-f0a12e20b216dfc8dc951a5929df682a has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-e4a18999 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-contrast-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-decc535b6327c1f7126198669a05008a\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0.2rem\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"envelope-open-text\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-envelope-open-text \" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 576 512\" style=\"font-size:1.4em\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M288 33.9L96.4 175.8 254.5 293c5.3 3.9 11.2 6.9 17.5 8.7L272 464c0 5.5 .5 10.8 1.3 16L96 480c-35.3 0-64-28.7-64-64l0-239.9c0-20.3 9.6-39.4 25.9-51.4L254.5-21c9.7-7.2 21.4-11 33.5-11s23.8 3.9 33.5 11L518.1 124.7c7.2 5.3 13.1 12 17.4 19.6-2.5-.2-5-.3-7.5-.3L436.6 144 288 33.9zM320 240c0-26.5 21.5-48 48-48l160 0c26.5 0 48 21.5 48 48l0 224c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48l-160 0c-26.5 0-48-21.5-48-48l0-224zm80 16c-13.3 0-24 10.7-24 24s10.7 24 24 24l96 0c13.3 0 24-10.7 24-24s-10.7-24-24-24l-96 0zm0 96c-13.3 0-24 10.7-24 24s10.7 24 24 24l56 0c13.3 0 24-10.7 24-24s-10.7-24-24-24l-56 0z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center cta_text content_mid_cta has-link-color has-large-font-size wp-elements-8a0ce27d23f7e9cc6f0d594f1d06f2d9\">Insights like these straight to your inbox<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Receive weekly tips from our founder to grow your program\u2019s impact; regardless of what tools you use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-a89b3969 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button primary-cta\" id=\"host-weekly-tips-mid-cta\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/insights\/weekly-awards-and-competitions-insights\/\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.156), 1rem);\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><\/span> <span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"envelope\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-envelope \" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M48 64c-26.5 0-48 21.5-48 48 0 15.1 7.1 29.3 19.2 38.4l208 156c17.1 12.8 40.5 12.8 57.6 0l208-156c12.1-9.1 19.2-23.3 19.2-38.4 0-26.5-21.5-48-48-48L48 64zM0 196L0 384c0 35.3 28.7 64 64 64l384 0c35.3 0 64-28.7 64-64l0-188-198.4 148.8c-34.1 25.6-81.1 25.6-115.2 0L0 196z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span> Subscribe to Insights<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mid-cta-b\" class=\"wp-block-group hide has-contrast-color has-base-2-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-ca05ccdaab1def85577cb2a6d6db569d has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-e4a18999 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-contrast-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c35947b2679f7e019645ffbfe224e3d2\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0.2rem\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"chart-line\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-chart-line \" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\" style=\"font-size:1.4em\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M64 64c0-17.7-14.3-32-32-32S0 46.3 0 64L0 400c0 44.2 35.8 80 80 80l400 0c17.7 0 32-14.3 32-32s-14.3-32-32-32L80 416c-8.8 0-16-7.2-16-16L64 64zm406.6 86.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L320 210.7 262.6 153.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0l-96 96c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0l73.4-73.4 57.4 57.4c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l128-128z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center cta_text content_mid_cta has-link-color has-large-font-size wp-elements-77a2863cd996b074853fbd2c95c9a19c\">Calculate when submissions will arrive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Ever wondered if your award will hit its submission targets? Or how your program compares to industry standards?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-a89b3969 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button primary-cta\" id=\"host-submissions-projection-mid-cta\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/insights\/submission-projection-calculator\/\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.156), 1rem);\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><\/span><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"calculator\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-calculator \" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 384 512\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M64 0C28.7 0 0 28.7 0 64L0 448c0 35.3 28.7 64 64 64l256 0c35.3 0 64-28.7 64-64l0-384c0-35.3-28.7-64-64-64L64 0zM96 64l192 0c17.7 0 32 14.3 32 32l0 32c0 17.7-14.3 32-32 32L96 160c-17.7 0-32-14.3-32-32l0-32c0-17.7 14.3-32 32-32zm16 168a24 24 0 1 1 -48 0 24 24 0 1 1 48 0zm80 24a24 24 0 1 1 0-48 24 24 0 1 1 0 48zm128-24a24 24 0 1 1 -48 0 24 24 0 1 1 48 0zM88 352a24 24 0 1 1 0-48 24 24 0 1 1 0 48zm128-24a24 24 0 1 1 -48 0 24 24 0 1 1 48 0zm80 24a24 24 0 1 1 0-48 24 24 0 1 1 0 48zM64 424c0-13.3 10.7-24 24-24l112 0c13.3 0 24 10.7 24 24s-10.7 24-24 24L88 448c-13.3 0-24-10.7-24-24zm232-24c13.3 0 24 10.7 24 24s-10.7 24-24 24-24-10.7-24-24 10.7-24 24-24z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span> Calculate submissions<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-bottom:0\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-x-large-font-size\" id=\"anonymous-selection\"><strong>Anonymous selection<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Making entries anonymous is a great way to reduce judges bias. It is worth noting that this is only really relevant where the artist does not feature in their work (performance, self-portraiture, etc.) and requires to think carefully about what the candidate will be submitting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ensure all information that can identify the candidate is not made available to judges. You may also want to warn candidates as they submit to make sure things like artist statements do not include information that could directly identify them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-267b2dbf wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<p class=\"has-body-font-family has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"users\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-users\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 640 512\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M144 0a80 80 0 1 1 0 160A80 80 0 1 1 144 0zM512 0a80 80 0 1 1 0 160A80 80 0 1 1 512 0zM0 298.7C0 239.8 47.8 192 106.7 192l42.7 0c15.9 0 31 3.5 44.6 9.7c-1.3 7.2-1.9 14.7-1.9 22.3c0 38.2 16.8 72.5 43.3 96c-.2 0-.4 0-.7 0L21.3 320C9.6 320 0 310.4 0 298.7zM405.3 320c-.2 0-.4 0-.7 0c26.6-23.5 43.3-57.8 43.3-96c0-7.6-.7-15-1.9-22.3c13.6-6.3 28.7-9.7 44.6-9.7l42.7 0C592.2 192 640 239.8 640 298.7c0 11.8-9.6 21.3-21.3 21.3l-213.3 0zM224 224a96 96 0 1 1 192 0 96 96 0 1 1 -192 0zM128 485.3C128 411.7 187.7 352 261.3 352l117.3 0C452.3 352 512 411.7 512 485.3c0 14.7-11.9 26.7-26.7 26.7l-330.7 0c-14.7 0-26.7-11.9-26.7-26.7z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span> <strong>Fostering diversity &amp; inclusion<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not knowing who submitted can go a long way in reducing bias when judges are processing submissions. Listening to music without knowing who is playing it, for instance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-bottom:0\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-x-large-font-size\" id=\"public-vote\"><strong>Public Vote<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Public voting can give your communities a voice, but it can also end up being a popularity contest. Depending solely on candidates to share a link to vote for their work will likely measure how sociable a candidate is, not the merits of their application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you wish to capture the voices of specific communities, you will need to actively drive public votes through these groups yourself. This requires carefully planned communications with all your stakeholders during the voting period (judges, partners, community groups, etc.).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You might also consider a sign or screen to remind people to vote as they visit your building (if you have a physical space).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is also worth noting that rewarding the candidate chosen by the public with large cash prizes will incentivise them to cheat. The rise of increasingly sophisticated click farms makes catching cheaters increasingly hard. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Balance the incentives for the winners of the public vote. They should be valuable enough for the candidates to take part but not enough to pay for a click farm with their winnings. To put this in perspective, a thousand likes on Instagram cost as little as $50.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\"><strong>When to open public voting<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Timing matters. Open voting too early (whilst submissions are still coming in), and late entrants get fewer votes simply because they had less time. Open it too close to results announcement, and people won&#8217;t engage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Best practice: Close submissions, take 1-2 weeks for initial judging to filter obvious non-qualifiers, then open a 2 week public voting window on your strongest entries. This gives everyone equal exposure time whilst ensuring your audience votes on quality work rather than sifting through hundreds of unvetted entries. Announce voting results separately from judged awards if using both methods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Public votes are also a great way of building subscribers to your newsletter, but be sure the platform you use is GDPR compliant (opt in!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-267b2dbf wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<p class=\"has-body-font-family has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"users\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-users\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 640 512\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M144 0a80 80 0 1 1 0 160A80 80 0 1 1 144 0zM512 0a80 80 0 1 1 0 160A80 80 0 1 1 512 0zM0 298.7C0 239.8 47.8 192 106.7 192l42.7 0c15.9 0 31 3.5 44.6 9.7c-1.3 7.2-1.9 14.7-1.9 22.3c0 38.2 16.8 72.5 43.3 96c-.2 0-.4 0-.7 0L21.3 320C9.6 320 0 310.4 0 298.7zM405.3 320c-.2 0-.4 0-.7 0c26.6-23.5 43.3-57.8 43.3-96c0-7.6-.7-15-1.9-22.3c13.6-6.3 28.7-9.7 44.6-9.7l42.7 0C592.2 192 640 239.8 640 298.7c0 11.8-9.6 21.3-21.3 21.3l-213.3 0zM224 224a96 96 0 1 1 192 0 96 96 0 1 1 -192 0zM128 485.3C128 411.7 187.7 352 261.3 352l117.3 0C452.3 352 512 411.7 512 485.3c0 14.7-11.9 26.7-26.7 26.7l-330.7 0c-14.7 0-26.7-11.9-26.7-26.7z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span> <strong>Fostering diversity &amp; inclusion<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Public votes can give you a false sense of being more inclusive. If voting turns into a popularity contest, it may well be the opposite. Favouring extroverted candidates over introverted ones or those with more resources.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-x-large-font-size\" id=\"conclusion\"><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Thinking about how you will make your selection too late in your process is likely to lead to issues that will waste a huge amount of your time later on. In the worst of cases, it could lead to souring relationships with your candidates, judges and stakeholders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each minute planning your selection saves ten later. It&#8217;s the difference between a smooth process where candidates, judges, and stakeholders all leave happy versus a stressful scramble that damages relationships and your reputation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Worth the upfront investment? Absolutely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your selection process is just one piece of the puzzle &#8211; see how it fits into <a href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/insights\/the-ultimate-guide-to-managing-submissions\/\" title=\"\">the complete guide to managing submissions<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-9972a97b wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;border-top-style:none;border-top-width:0px;border-right-style:none;border-right-width:0px;border-bottom-style:none;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-color:#bf3ea2;border-left-width:4px;background-color:#f4e7f180;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-26ac2763 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><span class=\"wp-rich-text-font-awesome-icon wp-font-awesome-icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-prefix=\"fas\" data-icon=\"kiwi-bird\" class=\"svg-inline--fa fa-kiwi-bird\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 576 512\" color=\"#ae3485\"><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M291.2 388.4c31.2-18.8 64.7-36.4 101.1-36.4l55.7 0c4.6 0 9.1-.2 13.6-.7l85.3 121.9c4 5.7 11.3 8.2 17.9 6.1S576 471 576 464l0-240c0-70.7-57.3-128-128-128l-55.7 0C355.9 96 322.4 78.4 291.2 59.6 262.3 42.1 228.3 32 192 32 86 32 0 118 0 224 0 295.1 38.6 357.1 96 390.3L96 456c0 13.3 10.7 24 24 24s24-10.7 24-24l0-46c15.3 3.9 31.4 6 48 6 5.4 0 10.7-.2 16-.7l0 40.7c0 13.3 10.7 24 24 24s24-10.7 24-24l0-50.9c12.4-4.4 24.2-10 35.2-16.7zM448 200a24 24 0 1 1 0 48 24 24 0 1 1 0-48z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>We can help!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">Zealous makes judging easier<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button primary-cta\" id=\"host-tour-bottom-cta\"><a rel=\"\" target=\"\" class=\"wp-block-button__link has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/demo\/judging\/\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.156), 1rem);\">See judging tour<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-outline secondary-cta is-style-outline--2\" id=\"host-product-bottom-cta\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/submissions-management-platform\/\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.156), 1rem);\">View product &amp; features<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"tertiary-cta has-medium-font-size\" id=\"host-8-others-bottom-cta\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">But we&#8217;re not alone in the space &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/resources\/best-award-management-software\/\" title=\"\">here are 8 others you may wish to consider<\/a> (even if we would prefer you choose us!).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-left:0\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>Want us to write more content like this? Give it a like<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-content-justification-space-between is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-9366075c wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-content-justification-left is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-368c6775 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-right:0;padding-left:0\">\n\t\t<div class=\"wpulike wpulike-animated-heart  wpulike-is-pro\" ><div class=\"wp_ulike_general_class wp_ulike_is_restricted\"><button type=\"button\"\n\t\t\t\t\taria-label=\"Like Button\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-id=\"33836\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-nonce=\"e44bb87d7e\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-type=\"post\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-template=\"wpulike-animated-heart\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-display-likers=\"\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-likers-style=\"popover\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-append=\"&lt;svg class=&quot;wpulike-svg-heart wpulike-svg-heart-pop one&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 32 29.6&quot;&gt;&lt;path d=&quot;M23.6,0c-3.4,0-6.3,2.7-7.6,5.6C14.7,2.7,11.8,0,8.4,0C3.8,0,0,3.8,0,8.4c0,9.4,9.5,11.9,16,21.2c6.1-9.3,16-12.1,16-21.2C32,3.8,28.2,0,23.6,0z&quot;\/&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;&lt;svg class=&quot;wpulike-svg-heart wpulike-svg-heart-pop two&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 32 29.6&quot;&gt;&lt;path d=&quot;M23.6,0c-3.4,0-6.3,2.7-7.6,5.6C14.7,2.7,11.8,0,8.4,0C3.8,0,0,3.8,0,8.4c0,9.4,9.5,11.9,16,21.2c6.1-9.3,16-12.1,16-21.2C32,3.8,28.2,0,23.6,0z&quot;\/&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;&lt;svg class=&quot;wpulike-svg-heart wpulike-svg-heart-pop three&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 32 29.6&quot;&gt;&lt;path d=&quot;M23.6,0c-3.4,0-6.3,2.7-7.6,5.6C14.7,2.7,11.8,0,8.4,0C3.8,0,0,3.8,0,8.4c0,9.4,9.5,11.9,16,21.2c6.1-9.3,16-12.1,16-21.2C32,3.8,28.2,0,23.6,0z&quot;\/&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;&lt;svg class=&quot;wpulike-svg-heart wpulike-svg-heart-pop four&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 32 29.6&quot;&gt;&lt;path 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Facebook\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"wp-block-outermost-social-sharing-link-anchor\">\n\t\t<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M12 2C6.5 2 2 6.5 2 12c0 5 3.7 9.1 8.4 9.9v-7H7.9V12h2.5V9.8c0-2.5 1.5-3.9 3.8-3.9 1.1 0 2.2.2 2.2.2v2.5h-1.3c-1.2 0-1.6.8-1.6 1.6V12h2.8l-.4 2.9h-2.3v7C18.3 21.1 22 17 22 12c0-5.5-4.5-10-10-10z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t<span class=\"wp-block-outermost-social-sharing-link-label screen-reader-text\">\n\t\t\tShare on Facebook\t\t<\/span>\n\t<\/a>\n<\/li>\n\n\n<li style=\"padding-left:0.7rem;padding-right:0.7rem;padding-top:0.7rem;padding-bottom:0.7rem;\" class=\"outermost-social-sharing-link outermost-social-sharing-link-x  tertiary-cta wp-block-outermost-social-sharing-link\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/share?url=https%3A%2F%2Fzealous.co%2Fabout%2Finsights%2Fplanning-the-selection-process-for-your-competition%2F&#038;text=How%20to%20Plan%20Your%20Awards%20Selection%20Process%3A%20Judging%2C%20Rounds%20%26%20Criteria\" aria-label=\"Share on X\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"wp-block-outermost-social-sharing-link-anchor\">\n\t\t<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M13.982 10.622 20.54 3h-1.554l-5.693 6.618L8.745 3H3.5l6.876 10.007L3.5 21h1.554l6.012-6.989L15.868 21h5.245l-7.131-10.378Zm-2.128 2.474-.697-.997-5.543-7.93H8l4.474 6.4.697.996 5.815 8.318h-2.387l-4.745-6.787Z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t<span class=\"wp-block-outermost-social-sharing-link-label screen-reader-text\">\n\t\t\tShare on X\t\t<\/span>\n\t<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group au_row is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-527f440d wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized has-custom-border au_img\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44104 lazyload\" style=\"border-radius:40px;object-fit:cover;width:80px;height:80px\" data-src=\"http:\/\/mused.co\/wpadmin2\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2023\/11\/guy-armitage-zealous-1.webp\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group au_txt_block wp-container-content-9dbf05af has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-c4ee154b wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/team\/guyarmitage\/\" title=\"\">Guy Armitage<\/a> is the founder of <a href=\"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/?utm_source=guy_armitage&amp;utm_medium=blog_footer&amp;utm_campaign=founder_insight&amp;utm_id=founder_insight\" title=\"\">Zealous <\/a>and author of &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/everyoneiscreative.org\/?utm_source=guy_armitage&amp;utm_medium=blog_footer&amp;utm_campaign=founder_insight&amp;utm_id=founder_insight\" title=\"\">Everyone is Creative<\/a>&#8220;. He is on a mission to amplify the world&#8217;s creative potential.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-96623d35 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:0;padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div data-schema-only=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-aioseo-faq\"><h3 class=\"aioseo-faq-block-question\"><strong>How long does it take to judge competition submissions?<\/strong><\/h3><div class=\"aioseo-faq-block-answer\">\n<p>Judging time depends on what you&#8217;re asking candidates to submit. A simple image with description takes roughly 10-30 seconds per entry, whilst video submissions with written responses can take 5-10 minutes each. Calculate your total judging time by multiplying your expected entries (plus 20% buffer) by your per-entry processing time. For 2,000 entries at 10 seconds each, that&#8217;s approximately 6 hours of pure judging time.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-schema-only=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-aioseo-faq\"><h3 class=\"aioseo-faq-block-question\"><strong>Should I use multiple rounds for judging awards?<\/strong><\/h3><div class=\"aioseo-faq-block-answer\">\n<p>Use multiple rounds if you expect more than 200-300 submissions, want to guarantee quality before reaching final judges, or need to verify specific eligibility criteria. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rounds let you filter entries progressively, spending less time per entry in early rounds and more detailed attention in finals. This prevents overwhelming judges with hundreds of entries whilst maintaining quality control.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-schema-only=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-aioseo-faq\"><h3 class=\"aioseo-faq-block-question\"><strong>What makes a good judging criterion for competitions?<\/strong><\/h3><div class=\"aioseo-faq-block-answer\">\n<p>Good judging criteria are specific, measurable, and limited in number. Keep criteria to 5 maximum (3-4 is ideal). Early rounds work well with simple Yes\/No\/Maybe decisions, whilst later rounds can use detailed scoring (marks out of 10 for Originality, Execution, Purpose, for instance). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Share your criteria in your guidelines so candidates can tailor their submissions to what you&#8217;re actually looking for.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-schema-only=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-aioseo-faq\"><h3 class=\"aioseo-faq-block-question\"><strong>How do I reduce bias in competition judging?<\/strong><\/h3><div class=\"aioseo-faq-block-answer\">\n<p>Anonymous judging removes identifying information from entries, though this only works when the artist doesn&#8217;t appear in their work. Diversify your judging panel to include different perspectives and backgrounds. Use multiple rounds with different judges to catch unconscious bias. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Structure your process so later rounds review a manageable snapshot of candidates, making it easier to question if bias influenced earlier selections.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-schema-only=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-aioseo-faq\"><h3 class=\"aioseo-faq-block-question\"><strong>When should I invite external judges versus using internal staff?<\/strong><\/h3><div class=\"aioseo-faq-block-answer\">\n<p>Use internal staff or partners for early qualifying rounds to handle volume and check compliance. Reserve external judges and recognisable names for later rounds after you&#8217;ve filtered entries. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>External judges shouldn&#8217;t waste time on hundreds of submissions checking eligibility. Give them your best 20-50 entries to evaluate. This respects their time, improves your chances of securing high-level judges, and showcases your programme&#8217;s quality.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-schema-only=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-aioseo-faq\"><h3 class=\"aioseo-faq-block-question\"><strong>Is anonymous judging worth the extra effort?<\/strong><\/h3><div class=\"aioseo-faq-block-answer\">\n<p>Anonymous judging significantly reduces bias when the artist doesn&#8217;t feature in their work (performance, self-portraiture, etc.). It requires careful planning about what information judges see and warning candidates to avoid identifying details in artist statements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The effort pays off in fairer outcomes, though it&#8217;s impractical for work where the creator&#8217;s identity or body is central to the piece.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-schema-only=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-aioseo-faq\"><h3 class=\"aioseo-faq-block-question\"><strong>Should my competition include a public vote?<\/strong><\/h3><div class=\"aioseo-faq-block-answer\">\n<p>Public votes can engage communities but often become popularity contests measuring social reach rather than merit. If you include public voting, actively drive votes through your own channels rather than relying on candidates to share. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep prizes modest &#8211; large cash prizes incentivise cheating through click farms (1,000 Instagram likes cost as little as $50). Public votes work best as one element alongside expert judging, not as the sole selection method.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Plan an effective judging process for your awards programme. Calculate effort, structure rounds, set clear criteria, and reduce bias at every stage.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":59315,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":true,"template":"wp-custom-template-post-org-insight","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[499],"tags":[910],"class_list":["post-33836","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-insights","tag-managing-awards"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33836","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=33836"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33836\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/59315"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=33836"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=33836"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zealous.co\/about\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=33836"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}