Become an awards juror

Help recognise the best work in design and technology by joining our jury

Juror participation

Nicole Austin and Louise Sporton present at Design Outlook 2022. Nicole wears a floral blouse and green skirt; Louise wears a floral skirt and black blazer.

What we're looking for

  • Practitioners across all experience levels, from student to seasoned leader
  • Practitioners from startups, studios, and enterprises
  • Voices from underrepresented communities and regions
  • Specialists and generalists across product, design, and tech

 

Presenter, Jonathan Lau, on stage at Design Outlook 2023, speaking with animated gestures while wearing a grey blazer and headset mic.

What you'll do

  • Review a curated set of entries in your area of expertise
  • Score against clear criteria for craft, impact, and innovation
  • Provide short, constructive comments for finalists
  • Disclose and recuse from any conflicts of interest

 

Juror applications timeline

A group of seven volunteers at the DO 2022 conference pose together in front of a blue backdrop on a stage. They are smiling warmly, with a few of them making peace signs. Most are wearing white DO 22 t-shirts, and all have conference badges and lanyards. Their expressions reflect a sense of camaraderie and enthusiasm, capturing the welcoming atmosphere of the event.

Successful applicants will be contacted directly with onboarding details and briefings ahead of the judging period.

  • Applications open: November 1
  • Applications close: January 16
  • Jury announced: January 23

 

Join the awards Jury

Help shape the future of design and technology by recognising the region’s most impactful work.

 As part of a diverse panel of 50 to 60 practitioners, you’ll evaluate entries alongside peers who share your commitment to craft, innovation, and integrity. It’s an opportunity to contribute your perspective, connect with leaders across disciplines, and help define what excellence looks like in our community.

FAQs

How much time does it take to be a juror?

Jury participation takes around 6 to 8 hours in total, spread across a two to three week window. There is also an optional 60-minute calibration session to align scoring approaches and expectations.

Who can apply to be a juror?

We welcome practitioners from across design, product, technology, and leadership. Ideal jurors have at least five years of experience or a strong portfolio that shows measurable outcomes.

Can I judge work from my own company or clients?

No. Jurors cannot score work from their employer, clients, or close collaborators. We have systems in place to identify and avoid conflicts of interest.

How does The Outlook ensure fairness and integrity?

We verify juror identities, track diversity representation, and run random audits across judging to maintain integrity. Our process is designed to reflect a wide range of professional perspectives while ensuring transparency and accountability.

Is the judging process confidential?

Yes. All jurors agree to confidentiality before accessing entries. Submissions are reviewed securely, and feedback is only shared with entrants after the process concludes.

Do jurors receive recognition?

Yes. All jurors are acknowledged on the TO26 website and in event materials, with access to private juror briefings and trend insights throughout the judging period. Jurors are also invited to our award gala as VIP. 

How many jurors are there?

We will convene around 60 jurors from across design, product, technology, and leadership. This mix ensures every category is reviewed by people with relevant expertise while keeping perspectives broad, balanced, and representative of the region’s creative and technological diversity.