Entry Judging

A panel of judges carefully review qualified FTCC entries. Each entry is judged on its own merit; entries are not judged against each other. The judges have the right to recategorize or reject an entry and refund the entry fee.

Technical Publications. Technical Publications entries are rated on four factors: writing, graphics, copyediting and overall integration. All factors are judged in the context of the purpose, content and organization of the document.

Online Communication. Online Communication entries are judged in the context of the entry’s stated purpose and audience. Judges evaluate the content, structure and design of each entry, and determine awards based on the entry’s strengths and weaknesses and how well it fulfills its purpose.

Technical Art. Technical Art entries are judged on how well they visually communicate a technical message. Judges evaluate the visual appeal, technical execution and presentation of each entry to determine awards based on the entry’s strengths and weaknesses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What equipment do the judges use for online entries?

Each year the FTCC organizers define a standard judging platform. The standard platform for FTCC 2009-2010 was the following:

  • A 300 MHz Pentium processor (or higher), running Microsoft® Windows® NT 4.0, Windows® 2000, Windows® XP or Windows® Vista with an 800 by 600 color monitor.
  • Any software you supply to run the entry, other than the following standard software: Microsoft® Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher, Mozilla® Firefox 2 or higher or Adobe® Acrobat Reader® 7.0 or higher.

At least one computer in each group will have a CD-ROM drive, sound card, speakers and internet connection.

How will I be notified after the judging?

You will receive an e-mail advising you of the outcome. Regardless of whether you win an FTCC award, you will receive evaluations of your entry in electronic format via e-mail or on a CD.

Winners in the international competitions are notified before the STC Annual Conference. There, all winning international entries are displayed, international Best of Show awards are presented and all international winners are honored.

What happens to my entry after the competition?

Your entry is not returned from the local competition unless you make special arrangements and provide adequate prepaid packaging.

If your entry wins a Distinguished Technical Communication award at the local or regional level, it is returned only if you notify the Competition Manager in writing that you do not want your entry to compete in the international competition. No entries are returned from the international competition.

Questions? Contact us.