The evaluation system: criteria for sustainable excellence

Redaktion PSI Journal

Published on 23.05.2025

The PSI uses a rigorously organised evaluation system for the PSI Academy Awards, which promotes quality and innovation in the promotional products industry. The submitted products and campaigns are evaluated in several categories based on defined criteria.

First, there is a comprehensive evaluation that assesses the originality, reproducibility and credibility of the entries. Particular attention is paid to the complexity of the analysis, the quality of the elaboration and the type of implementation. In addition, the potential positive impact on the environment and society is taken into account as part of the impact criterion.

There are also two different subject-specific evaluations, as the PSI Academy Awards recognise promotional products on the one hand and campaigns on the other. Understandably, different subject-specific evaluation systems are required for both.

Various categories are used for the subject-specific evaluations of the products, i.e. promotional items. In the area of design, aesthetics, user-friendly functionality and economic and ecological construction are assessed. Communication with consumers about sustainability aspects also plays an important role. In terms of sustainability, the products must meet high standards of ecological and social responsibility, while product compliance ensures exceptional functionality and user satisfaction. The use of the products as promotional items is also examined in detail, particularly with regard to practicality, quality and cost-effectiveness.

For campaigns, the marketing value achieved and the effectiveness and success in relation to the set goals are evaluated. The quality and implementation of the measures carried out, as well as the social responsibility and sustainability of the campaign, are also decisive criteria.

Overall, the neutral and international jury of the PSI Academy Awards ensures a transparent and objective evaluation that helps to highlight sustainable innovations in the industry and promote best practices.

Overview of evaluation criteria

• Overall assessment

Approach: Originality, reproducibility and credibility are assessed.
Elaboration: The complexity of the analysis, the quality of the elaboration and the type of implementation are assessed.
Impact: The potential for a positive impact on the environment and/or society is considered.

• Technical assessments for products

Design: This refers to the overall design approach, with the following criteria: aesthetics, user-friendly functionality, economical and ecological construction, and, where applicable, the interaction between the product and its packaging. The quality of communication with consumers about sustainability is also taken into account.
Sustainability: The fulfilment of a number of aspects that we believe are also relevant to sustainable projects can be found in the specialist areas of design and product compliance. We have chosen not to repeat these here.
Product compliance: The award-winning products must meet high standards of environmental and social responsibility while offering exceptional functionality and user satisfaction.
Use as promotional items: Promotional items are assessed for their practicality, quality, brand alignment, target group relevance and cost-effectiveness to ensure maximum impact and value.

• Specialised evaluations for campaigns

Marketing value achieved: The effectiveness and success of the campaign in relation to the marketing objectives set.
Measures implemented: The quality and implementation of marketing activities and strategies.
Positive impact on the environment and society: The sustainability and social responsibility of the campaign.

+++