Student Competition - Final Judging

WHAT IF! Design: 2025 SA DESIGN COMPETITION

Judging Criteria & Scoring Guide

Judging criteria should be scored using the following scale:

  1. It does not meet the requirements at all.
  2. It somewhat meets the requirements but needs development.
  3. Acceptable, meets the essential criteria.
  4. Reasonable standard, well-developed and considered.
  5. Excellent, exceeds the expectations.

Vertical Tabs

High School Learner

Beginner Level, encouraging Creativity and Exploration

Judging will prioritise imaginative ideas, concept development, and storytelling over technical execution. Designs should demonstrate an understanding of the purpose, even if not fully refined, and be presented effectively through sketches or mood boards. Feedback should focus on encouragement and growth rather than perfection.

Design Language

/10
Is the design sketch coherent and clear?
/10

Creativity and Innovation 

/10
/5
/5

Sustainable Integration 

/5
/5
Total: points
University Student

Intermediate level - Balancing Creativity with Feasibility

Judging will emphasise research-based design solutions and students' understanding of the design problem.  Innovation should be balanced with feasibility whilst demonstrating an understanding of aesthetics, functionality, materials, and industry standards. The design's consideration of environmental, cultural and ethical issues is essential. 

Design Language

/5
/5

Creativity, Innovation and Feasibility 

/5
/5
/5
/5

Sustainable Integration 

/5
/5
/5
/5
Total: points
Designer: Entry Level

Advanced Level - Industry Readiness and Execution

Judging will prioritise professional-level execution, real-world feasibility, and advanced technical skills, ensuring designs are market-ready and commercially viable. High-quality presentation, material knowledge, consumer relevance, and commercialisation should be reflected according to industry standards. Visionary and new approaches to environmental and social sustainability issues, technology, and cultural and ethical design solutions are essential.

Design Language

/5
Does the design demonstrate strong 3D modelling or related software skills, real-life models and/or industry-relevant ideation techniques?
/5

Creativity, Innovation and Feasibility 

/5
/5
/5
/5

Sustainable Integration 

/5
/5
/5
/5
Total: points