What are the Web Design Awards?
There is no single awarding body for web design achievement. Many awards were presented for 2011, by a variety of organisations - ranging from web design magazines to general design associations. Most have an international range and were judged from entries submitted by the designers themselves. Some had nearly 100 categories, whilst others had just a few. There is no doubt that winning such an award is good publicity, as well as being a recognition for excellence. This article describes a selection of awards handed out in 2011.
The Webby Awards 2011
The 15th Annual Webby Awards were announced in June 2011, at an Oscar-like ceremony in New York, hosted by Lisa Kudrow. Described as the internet's most respected symbol of success, it is administered by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, and aims to honour the best of the Web. In 2011, a panel of high profile judges considered nearly 10 thousand entries from around the world. In nearly 100 categories, sites were assessed on excellence in content, structure, navigation, visual design, functionality and interactivity.
The Annual Design Awards 2011 (ANNDAS)
These awards describe themselves as an international celebration of design excellence. Based in the UK, they are a relative newcomer, 2011 being only their second year. Entry was available to any company, agency or individual. This is a design-wide award, with just 14 categories - only two of these being for web design (flash and non-flash). Judged on creativity, usability and effectiveness, 12 entries from each category were chosen to go forward to the finals and then one winner for each category was announced in October. Winners received a trophy, but there was no awards ceremony - the trophies were sent out by post. There were also prizes and Excellence in Design Accolades for outstanding contributions.
Magazine Awards
The Annual .Net Magazine Awards were held in November 2011 at a famous London night club, with a rock themed evening. This was the 13th year that these prestigious awards for web industry professionals have been held. Magazine readers began the voting process in August and September by nominating their favourites in 17 categories – including online games, designer, developer, agency, mobile app and brilliant newcomer, as well as Website of the Year. From the top three in each category a panel of judges selected the winners.
Web Designer Magazine is the premier magazine in the UK for web creatives and designers, and is renowned for its annual awards. During December, readers were able to vote for their favouite website and agency from those featured in the magazine over 2011. The winners were announced in February 2012. Best site was awarded to Square Circle and best agency went to Hi-Re S.