Far too many of the entries are poorly constructed. The judges are doing this in their own time over a very short period of time. In some of the bigger categories, the first filter is probably based on giving no more than 5-10 minutes to each entry, so the first impression has to count. The second filter will then be about the same again to each surviving entry, so any supporting material has to be succinct and easily accessed. The last filter, deciding the order of the winners as far as the individual judge is concerned, may be more involved, and it is here where I will then look at examples, videos and so on.

I'd advise that it should always be the entrant that fills in the entry, not its PR company, as they don't know the ins and outs of the particular story on the whole. I'd advise that the entrant reads the guidelines, and then sticks to them. I'd advise that supporting material be kept short, and that a contact be provided who can then provide further material as required, such as login details for demo accounts, contact to the customers, whatever.

Final thoughts
Winning a Lotus award is a big thing. It could be just the boost your business is looking for, and it's a point of pride for those companies that win. Don't be lazy, don't just "take a shot". If you think your solution is the best-of-the-best, give it the attention it deserves and go all out for the win.

Otherwise, you're just wasting your time -- and ours.

I look forward to the next round of submissions. Some of the solutions Lotus busines partners create are nothing short of amazing. Applying for a Lotus Award is a great way to let a lot more people learn about your hard work, creativity, and technical brilliance.

Finally, special thanks to Mick, Shelley, Debbie, Mike, Margaret, and Clive for taking the extra time to share their thoughts on this subject.

Go forth and make us proud.