Excellence in Product DEsign
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Category Definition & Guidelines
To assist you with this application the judges have provided some guidelines.
When providing your answers, the “For Example”/guidelines we have suggested for each question are not intended to be exhaustive. They are designed as examples and prompts to help you understand the judges’ requirements. It is important that where you state that you have evidence in support of the specific question you are answering, you need to provide that evidence – usually, a generic brochure or company overview is not sufficient.
HMA is interested in seeing initiatives that have been identified, driven, and resolved within our region
(Hunter, Central Coast, Mid North Coast).
Download a category information guide here.
Additional Information
Click the dropdown arrows for more helpful information
Focus of the category
The HMA Excellence in Product Design Award recognises businesses that have developed a product demonstrating outstanding product design attributes.
The product nominated must be intended for significant sales volumes, rather than being a “one-off” item.
Applicants must address each listed criterion (where relevant) and provide evidence to support their claims.
Supporting material such as photographs, drawings, and presentations (in any technological form) may be included as attachments to the online application form—please label all files clearly, including a reference to the criterion they support.
Please limit each written response to 300 words or less.
Note - Applicants may find that their application into this category may also be a 'fit' for another category, such as Manufacturer of the Year, etc.
By adapting the information to fit the criteria of other categories you give yourself the opportunity for your product, process, etc. to be profiled in more than one sector.
Judging criteria & Values
Question 1:
Product Description
Judging Criteria
- Name the product and provide a clear description, supported by photographs, video, or other visual material as appropriate.
- Explain what the product does, who the customers are, and why it is relevant and valuable in the marketplace.
Value:
N/A
Question 2:
Form/Aesthetics
Judging Criteria
- Describe how aesthetics and styling cues have been deliberately considered to make the product intuitive, attractive, and desirable to its intended customers.
- Highlight any distinguishing features, supported by images where appropriate.
Value:
10/70
Question 3:
Function
Judging Criteria
- Describe how the product effectively meets the needs of its primary and secondary user groups.
- Demonstrate that it is easy to understand, use, and that ergonomic considerations have been well resolved.
Value:
10/70
Question 4:
Quality of Design
Judging Criteria
Good design solves problems whilst aiding to make products easier to manufacture.
- Describe, using images where appropriate, how well:
- The product design has addressed the original requirements the product set out to solve
- The original design concept has been translated into production
- The product is appropriate and that the product represents good value for money
Value:
10/70
Question 5:
Safety
Judging Criteria
- Demonstrate that the product design prioritises user and third-party safety.
- Explain how the design safeguards against misuse and unintentional use, and complies with applicable safety standards.
- Show how safety hazards are communicated clearly through form, graphics, or other design features.
Value:
10/70
Question 6:
Environmental Sustainability
Judging Criteria
- Demonstrate how the design meets a genuine market need while minimising environmental impact.
- Highlight energy, material, and water efficiency; extended product life; and ease of disassembly and recycling.
Value:
10/70
Question 7:
Commerciality
Judging Criteria
- Demonstrate how the product has enhanced your company's brand value and/or generated a positive return on investment.
- If the product is newly launched, provide evidence or projections indicating future commercial success.
Value:
10/70
Question 8:
Innovation
Judging Criteria
- Explain the extent to which the product incorporates new and original design features.
- Highlight how the innovation differentiates the product within the market or industry sector.
Value:
10/70
Application Guide & tips
Want to nominate someone for HMA 2025?
Fill in the form below to Submit your nomination!
Nomination Form
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