OUTPUT

I like the idea of industry awards that demonstrate the skills of the users of digital printing equipment. They provide a golden opportunity for PSPs, display producers and sign-makers to shout about some of the stunning work they're responsible for and, for the lucky winners, there's some nice associated publicity. And, unlike those contests where manufacturers might be presented with a prize for introducing some new piece of machinery or software, awards where practical and creative talents are involved actually show how today's technology is being used.

As such, this is a shameless plug for HP's Print Excellence Awards, the first of their kind, and announced last November. The idea has been to unify the existing regional and world-wide events organised by HP and make them a single comprehensive programme. This, in itself, generates further interest because they're not just targeting one sector of the printing industry but three, these being commercial print, labels and packaging, and sign and display. The winners will be announced during drupa and a selection of entries will be displayed on HP's stand at the exhibition.

Some might ask why they should enter any kind of contest where they're pitching their design and output capabilities in full view of their competition. But, as most people enjoy publicity for their companies and normally are pretty proud of what they're achieving, awards are a great level playing field which businesses of any size can enter.

The HP Print Excellence Awards concentrate, not surprisingly, on innovation. But they also look at environmentally responsible printing, with entrants having the opportunity to demonstrate ingenuity, creativity and skill. And, as an international competition, it'll be interesting to see how entries from various parts of the world interpret and work with these criteria to come up with their submissions.

Awards are good for keeping the industry on its toes as well as providing entrants with the opportunity once in a while to show off their finest achievements. They're also testimony to the high standards of design and output that can be generated using the combination of creative skills and technology.

Entries close on March 15th and, as with all award competitions, the greater the number of participants, the more worthwhile the overall contest. All the details you need are here so there's no excuse for not taking part.