WHAT ARE THE JUDGES LOOKING FOR?

CREATIVITY

Marks are awarded for innovation, originality and novelty. Is the entry based on a new idea? Or does it follow the old ‘tried and trusted’ formulae?

PRESENTATION

Is the presenter comfortable with the subject matter, and are they knowledgeable and well-versed on the subject? For show pieces, does the entry run smoothly, is it well scripted and professional?

VALUE

Does the entry achieve its objective? Does it entertain? Does it raise awareness? Does it prick the conscience? Does it hold the attention of the target audience?

PRODUCTION

Is the piece well produced and is the quality evident in the production? Is incidental music well placed and appropriate to the mood or atmosphere being conveyed?

EFFECTIVENESS

What outcome did this elicit? What were the key measurement criteria for this campaign, and did the campaign meet these objectives?

CREDIBILITY

How believable is this item? Does it carry authority? Correct pronunciation is critical in this assessment.

The judges will refer to a score sheet on the judging system detailing the criteria per category as a guideline.

Category Adjudication criteria
Show & Presenter categories Creativity; Presentation; Value (to the listener); Production
Community Project Creativity; Effectiveness; Value (to the community) and Production/Execution
News Reader Presentation; Pace; Ease of Listening; Credibility
Multi-Channel Promotion Creativity; Channel/Element Mix; Brand/identity enhancement; Production
Promotions Stunt/Event Effectiveness; Creativity; Value; Production/Execution
Radio Innovation Creativity; Value
Station Imaging Creativity; Originality; Brand/identity enhancement; Production

In all categories, judges will be looking to reward the contribution made by radio practitioners, rather than the input of those whose contribution would have been equally as impressive on another medium. For example, the relay of an outstanding musical performance will merit less attention than the added value an imaginative radio practitioner might have brought to such a performance.

TIPS FROM THE JUDGES

  • Make sure you have reviewed the category descriptions carefully and consider these ahead of submitting the entry;
  • Be unique with your submissions;
  • Emphasis on creativity and innovation is key;
  • Show us your flair, style, creativity and where possible, how connected you are with your community;
  • We’re looking for the unexpected and to be surprised – it’s the core element that distinguishes good radio from mediocre radio;
  • Clips submitted should always include a brief program line up or overview of the clip content submitted in order to give us an idea of what a typical program will sound like;
  • The purpose and projected outcomes of the program should be made clear by the presenter;
  • Compelling content and flow;
  • Clips should:
    • Demonstrate the preparedness of the presenter/producer on the subject matter, and relevant expert or guest;
    • Include brief critical elements/features of the radio show;
    • Demonstrate the artistry of the presenter/producer and the command in the language;
    • Promote relevance and maximum meaningful audience participation;
  • Quality check the audio of the submission to ensure seamless flow of the show.