Innovation in Products

About this award - entries CLOSED

This award recognises the product that has had the most positive impact on improving the management of facilities. Developing new products, or utilising existing ones in a new and innovative way, is a constant challenge in most organisations. This award covers all innovative products equally, from the simplest and cheapest to the most technically advanced. A product can be an object, tool, system or process. There is no prescriptive definition, so the judges hope to receive a wide range of entries. The definition of innovation is very simple and uncomplicated: “bring in new methods, ideas…. make changes”. Innovation is not limited to space-age technology and bank busting research budgets. It is not the property of multi-national corporate enterprises. Innovation in its purest form is simple, effective and adds value with the minimum of fuss. Yet it is essential in continually improving business efficiency and reciprocal benefits to both customers and end users. Developing new products, or utilising existing products in a new innovative way, is a continual drive in most organisations. This category is aimed at recognising that, with a strong message that it covers all products equally from the simplest and cheapest to the most technically advanced. All are essential, all have equal merit.

Submitting your entry

Entrants must show that their product can be clearly defined, marketed and sold as a stand-alone solution within their overall business offering. Submissions must include:

• A full description of the product.
• How it has been applied to specific project(s).
• How successful it has proven to be.
• Why the product was needed or how it evolved.
• How the performance of the product is measured.
• How the product development was initiated, who was involved in the process and how long it took from conception to completion.
• Details of any professional advisory teams used in constructing or in the delivery of the product.

Judging criteria

Entrants must present their completed submission via email in the order that addresses the following judging criteria.

1. A clear description of the product, including how it is used and its scope and relevance within the industry.
2. The need for the product, how it aligns with the business strategy and the innovative nature of the product.
3. How the product innovation has been integrated either into a business offer or into a specific project, clearly showing the design and effectiveness of the implementation programme.
4. Measurements of success in the following areas: customer/end user, financial, environmental.
5. The business case for future investment, including an outline of future applications.

From the lead jusge: Nick Shaw, CBIFM, Vision 4 Ltd

“Why do I give so much of my time to being lead judge for the Innovation in Products category? Quite simply I am enthused by the passion I see from those companies that enter to win. I think it is unique to this category that entrants come from the full range in the industry; multi-million pound high profile organisations as well as small privately owned companies.... and all, genuinely, have equal opportunity. Some products are physical objects or pieces of equipment, others are more process orientated... it does not matter! Success comes through communicating a vision and how that vision is being implemented. It is supported by a belief from the team that have developed the product. If it is good, then the product of course will stand up for itself in the market place. Winning the award supports the brand value of the business as a whole. Innovation drives business forward and winning this category, more than any other in my opinion, demonstrates the ability to succeed. "Innovation distinguishes between leaders and followers" - Steve Jobs.
Is your business industry leading?.... then make sure everyone knows!”