How to Run a Successful Logo Contest

• There is a difference between Gold and Platinum
• Be aware of designer demographics and timezones
• Rounds end at the same time of day the contest starts
• Be aware of when the weekend is
• You have multiple days between rounds
• Administrators follow a script that will make the contest blind upon request
• Understand: blind contests protect designers, private contests protect customers
• Make your contest blind
• Assemble a design committee to guide the contest
• Make a rigorous feedback loop
• Define the meaning of ratings in advance
• Rate and comment on every submission
• Decline submissions that are obsolete to keep the listing clean
• You can see the entries for other contests with URL editing
• Withdrawn submissions are obscured but still save-able (but note you don't own the copyright)
• Be aware of how little pay the designers get
• Contests can be extended upon request
• Make a comprehensive design brief
• Inspirational logos in the design brief will be taken literally
• Read the 99designs blog posts on types of logos and common logos (you should be familiar with the V-Man and know the difference between a pictorial mark and a wordmark)
• Post regular announcements (these also go out to watchers)
• Invite designers to your contest personally, but note the economics surrounding top-level designers
• Change your account avatar so that designers don't draw design inspiration from the default (the first letter of your name)
• The finalization / handover phase is only meant for small revisions. You lose your leverage!