Judging criteria

All the publications will be assessed and moderated by experts in the various fields. Note that the judges will definitely consider your available budget and the professional support you receive in producing the publication.

Writing
Judges will assess your writing in terms of language usage, the originality, punch and applicability of headlines, captions and introductions. Due consideration will also be given to general style, identity and structure of articles.

Communication
The judges will ask the following questions, amongst others:

  • What is the general image of the organization, as portrayed by the publication?
  • Do the articles and reports reflect the publication's objectives?
  • How original, appropriate and newsworthy are the articles?
  • Is there a balance between long and short, light-hearted and serious articles and corporate and other news?
  • Does the publication consider the target audience in terms of language, culture and educational background?
  • Does the publication invite reader participation?
  • Annual reports and once-offs will be judged according to specific communication criteria applicable to these media.

 

Design and page layout
The following factors, amongst others, will be taken into account:

  • Are the major design elements used to attract the reader into the article?
  • Does the layout contribute to the understanding of the article and its message?
  • Does the layout and design make the page more accessible?
  • How does the layout artist use contrast, emphasis, balance, repetition, proportion, typeface and colour?
  • Does the publication have an original style and personality?

 

Photography
The judges will consider the following:

  • General technical quality of photographs
  • Creative use of photographs
  • Composition
  • Cropping
  • Do the photographs contribute to the messages?

 

Electronic publications
Electronic publications will also be judged in terms of writing, layout (including the use of graphics and photographs) and communication. The user-friendliness of the publication and its navigation will also be assessed.

Corporate websites
Corporate websites will be judged on general image, user-friendliness, navigation, regular updates of information, knowledge of the target audience and writing.

DVD newsletters and one-offs
These will be assessed in terms of script, technical qualities such as photography, lighting, editing, sound, presentation and communication.

Annual reports and one-offs
These will be assessed on applicability of language, layout and communication for the publics who are addressed. In annual reports, the reporting of financial results will also receive special attention

Editor of the year
Click here to read more about the Editor of the year