WHAT THE JUDGES LOOK FOR
In Idea categories D&AD Judges are asked to consider three things. Firstly, the work must be a highly original and inspiring idea. Secondly, it must be exceptionally well executed. Thirdly, it must be relevant to its context.In Craft categories, like Sound Design or Typography work is judged primarily on the strength of the specific craft and then on how it contributes to the success of the idea and the piece as a whole.
JUDGING
300 of the world's leading creatives gather in London to judge the 25,000 pieces of work entered. The judges sit on 30 specialist juries, spending up to four days assessing the work. Voting is always private and never by a show of hands.- In-Book - Best of the Year
Judges initially vote the best work of the year into the prestigious D&AD Annual. The jury votes without discussion; over 50% of judges must vote for an entry for it to go in.
- Nomination - Shortlisted
The jury next select work that rises above In-Book standard and is worthy of consideration for a Yellow Pencil.
- The Yellow Pencil - Creative Excellence
Yellow Pencils are awarded for creative excellence, and are selected from the Nominations. Judges leave unaware of the final Yellow Pencil results. There are no set number awarded. In fact, sometimes a jury might not award any.
- The Black Pencil - Groundbreaking
Work that receives a Yellow Pencil progresses to Black Pencil Judging. Black Pencil juries are split into Advertising, Digital and Design, each made up of the Foreman and Deputy Foreman of each jury. Black Pencils are only awarded to work that is groundbreaking or redefines its medium. These high standards are reflected in the awards' tough requirements: 50% or more of the relevant jury need to vote for an entry for it to win a Black Pencil.
