Well-defined purpose (like a mission statement)
Separate award page with detailed criteria (what a site will be judged on)
Submit form with demographic requirements other than name, email address, and site URL are optional.
Special Winners List Requirement... Separate winners' page is required with at least ten "quality" winners listed along with a description of each one. (Screenshot of each winning site is advised for a top level or a single issued award.)
An annual award can qualify if it meets all the other criteria and posts new nominees at least once every two months. Also, a nominee's badge can be provided for display to only applicants listed on the award program's nominee page as they are officially being considered for the award.
Overall site must . . .
Be excellent in all areas, especially in content, site design, and navigation, which present a visually pleasing and informative visit.
Have quality download time that is relevant to bandwidth and individual visitor connection speed with emphasis on dial-up connection. (Flash and other sites requiring a long download periods need to post a notice, static option, and/or skip introduction as it applies to pages, sections, or the entire site.)
Excellent designed award graphic (sample okay) that represents the purpose must be displayed. Byte size under 10k is advised, but a larger size up to 15k would be considered. Sample image must be displayed or easily accessible for viewing by visitors.
Must have direct link to award program's main page (criteria / information / introduction) including if it is in frames or flash format.
Easy to find navigation link to the main award page must be on all other pages if the award is part of a website. (Visitors need to find the award program from any where within a site.)
No link requirement or password access prior to submission
An e-mail link as an alternative to form submission and for purposes of contacting with questions / assistance.
Stated review time period and who will be notified (winners or everyone)
Judging process via an experienced review panel for optimum objectivity is a plus, but not required. Still an individual judge must be experienced as would be indicated by the winners listed prior to requesting a rating.
- Any award program incorporating features that require a certain minimum version of Internet Explorer and/or Netscape above 5.0 must state prominently what is required or will not be rated above 2.5 nor upgraded beyond its current level.
A period award will have an exceptional purpose and/or detailed explanation of its specific criteria.
