Judging of Entries

A panel of judges selects entries worthy of recognition in the online communication and technical publication competitions. Entries are judged on their own merit; in other words, entries are not compared or judged against each other. The judges have the right to recategorize or reject an entry and refund the entry fee.

Publications. Publications entries are rated on four factors: writing, graphics, copyediting, and overall integration. Purpose, content, and organization of the document are all a part of overall integration.

Online. Online entries are evaluated in the context of each entry’s stated purpose. Judges rate according to four factors: purpose, content, structure, and design of each entry. Award determination is based on the entry’s strengths and weaknesses in these factors.

Art. Each piece is judged on how well it visually communicates 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.

What equipment will the judges use for online entries?

Each year the FTCC organizers define a standard judging platform.  The standard platform for FTCC 2008-2009 is 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, and 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?

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

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

What happens to my entry after the competition?

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

If your entry is eligible for the international competitions, it will be submitted automatically. If you do not want your entry to be submitted to the international competitions, please indicate this on your entry form.

Questions? Contact us.