What are Evalato’s judging modes and how to choose the right evaluation method for your awards?

Selecting the right voting method can significantly impact the success of your awards program. When you seek simplicity, inclusivity, or precision, Evalato shines with its versatile judging options. 

In this article, we will talk about the six judging modes Evalato offers, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your program’s goals.

#1 Score voting

Score voting is an evaluation method that is perfect for awards with multiple criteria. Judges use custom scorecards with pre-set weights, criteria, and scales to evaluate candidates. The scores are then averaged, and the highest-scoring entry wins.

Best for:

• Programs with multiple evaluation criteria;
• Thorough assessments that need weighted scorecards.

This method is commonly used in prestigious awards, like choosing Oscar nominees. Evalato’s scoring system is easy to customize, making it a reliable way to judge more complex awards programs. That’s why it is trusted by many Evalato clients.

#2 Popularity voting

Popularity voting simplifies the judging process by allowing each judge to cast one or more votes, all weighted equally. The entry with the most votes wins. This method ensures a straightforward and efficient winner selection.

It ensures a transparent and inclusive voting process, making it easy for judges and participants to understand.

Best for:

• Audience-driven contests (e.g., art, photography);
• Public voting where simplicity is important.

This type of voting is used in the People’s Choice Awards, which shows how effective it can be.

#3 Simple review voting

The simple review voting method is perfect for initial evaluation rounds. Judges either approve or reject applications with a single click. Both positive and negative votes are considered, offering a balanced approach to shortlisted candidates.

Best for: 

• The first round of judging; 
• Quickly accepting or rejecting entries before a detailed review;
• Powerlists or rankings.

After the initial selection, you can use a detailed evaluation method to choose the winners.

#4 Points voting

In points voting, judges distribute a set number of points among shortlisted applications. In this judging mode, each voter gives a specific weight to their preferences. Applications then receive points based on the number of candidates ranked lower than them. The entries with the most points are declared winners. 

Best for:

• Flexible distribution of points across entries;
• Programs with single or multiple winners and varied evaluation criteria.

This method allows organizers to control how points are allocated across categories or rounds.

#5 Single transferable vote (STV)

The STV mode starts with a voter’s first choice, but if that choice is eliminated or receives more votes than needed to win, it can be transferred to another preference. In this way, votes aren’t wasted, giving a sense of objectivity, as all preferences are considered throughout the process.

Best for:

• Elections with one or more winners.
• Programs with multiple winners, ranked preferences, and fair vote redistribution.
  

Another advantage of the Single transferable vote is the greater voting choice. Judges rank their preferences, allowing them more options rather than just selecting one winner. This gives voters more influence over the final outcome, as they can express a broader range of preferences.

 Finally, the process includes the elimination of unfavorable entries. Those with fewer votes gracefully step aside, making way for the most cherished options to thrive in the competition.

#6 Positional voting

While both STV and positional voting are rank-based and designed to maximize objective results, the key difference lies in how preferences are treated. Unlike the single transferable vote, positional voting assigns a set number of points to each choice. This system allows voters to rank their preferences, with the points summed to determine the overall ranking. The entries with the highest total points win. 

Best for:

• Ranking a large number of applications;
• Programs requiring detailed rankings.

Prominent events, such as the Eurovision Song Contest and the Nobel Prize, use this type of voting to determine winners.

Which evaluation method is right for your awards program?

Your choice of voting method depends on several factors:

• The number of winners you want to declare.
• The complexity of your program’s categories.
• The number of entries and evaluation rounds.

To choose the best voting method, first consider your program's complexity and desired outcomes. If your program has multiple criteria, Score voting may be the best choice. For awards driven by audience preference, use Popularity Voting. Positional Voting or STV works well for ranking or reaching a consensus. Understanding your program’s needs will help you create a fair and effective judging process.

Evalato makes it easy to customize and combine these voting methods, ensuring the perfect fit for your awards program.

How Evalato enhances your judging process

Evalato elevates your awards program with tools that can streamline and enhance the entire judging process. Beyond its different judging modes, the software provides additional evaluation features.

What features can your awards program benefit from? Let’s take a look below: 

• Unlimited judging rounds — customize your evaluation with as many rounds as you need, using a mix of voting methods for a unique process.
  
  
• Score normalization — ensure objectivity and transparency by balancing scores, so each entry is evaluated fairly, no matter how critical or generous the judges are.
  
  
• Judging panel or Public voting — combine panel evaluations with Public voting to create the ideal mix for your program.
  
  
• Next-generation judging portal  — give judges a dedicated portal to vote, abstain, or comment on entries from any device.
  
  
• Automatic score calculation — Evalato ensures accuracy and efficiency, by calculating the final scores for you without any errors.
  
  
• Real-time judging process — see how many entries each judge has voted on, which ones they’ve submitted, and how many are left.
  
  
• Automated reminders — judges are kept on track with automated reminders for incomplete evaluations.

Evalato's evaluation features help you manage awards smoothly and transform the way you recognize excellence.

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Want expert advice on Evalato's voting options? Sign up for a free test or book a demo, and we’ll help you choose the best method for your goals.

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