Hints & Tips

How to submit a great entry

Images - in Web standard .jpg format (96 dpi and 1 MB max);
Image #1 should be your “glamour shot” with a white background (for optimal web viewing).
For other images, show people using or interacting with your design in its intended environment. Use detail shots, exploded views, before vs. after, etc.
Keep it anonymous -- don’t include the designers’ faces!
Except for your glamour shot, don’t hide the less-attractive parts of your design, such as power cords, etc. Judges want an accurate representation.
These images are only used for judging. Winners will confirm which images will be used for publication. o Videos – See below for the IDEA Video Article to read why you should submit a video.
Tell the design story – use storyboards or design comics in PDF format as an alternative to images in order to make it easier for judges to understand how it meets the award criteria.
Don’t make unsubstantiated claims -- Avoid using marketing hyperbole; judges will see right through it. If it’s not obvious and can’t be supported with data, don’t write about it.
Backup your claims with testing and research. Jurors take this seriously. o Proofread for anonymity. It’s a common mistake and leads to instant disqualification.
Don’t wait until the last minute! The online system will turn off promptly once the late deadline passes at 11:59 PM PT on August 28, 2010. Don’t let server slow-down or technical difficulties prevent you from entering on time. Plan ahead!

FAQs

Q: Will our company's financial information be shared publicly following the jury process?

A: IDSA has the right to publicly share all information on the application unless specially requested otherwise. You can make this determination prior to submitting the application form.

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