You are required to make a physical mock-up of your proposal. The purpose of the mock-up is to clearly demonstrate the how your pack concept works in 3D. Making a physical mock-up will help you test the structure, practicality and functionality of your concept. The mock up does not necessarily need to be made up from the material you are proposing, if this is not feasible. 

 

Only if a physical mock up is not at all feasible, then rendering your pack digitally is acceptable. Some students may even present both for clarity and to overcome the execution problems presented by the mock-up.

 

You will also be required to submit photographs or images of your mock-up or digital 3D renderings as a part of your entry.  

 

A packaging designer needs to consider shape, structure, materials, functionality and 'fit-for-purpose' aspects of their packaging design proposal.  

 

The judges will concentrate primarily on the visual presentation of the packaging proposal or mock-up. The purpose of any written support information is to clearly explain your packaging concept, highlighting its features and in general ‘selling’ the concept to the judges. 

 

Although students are not expected to have a complete knowledge of package design and manufacture, the judges are looking for examples that display an insight into the challenges of packaging. Below are some of the criteria you should consider. Remember that scoring will be weighted towards structural design issues and that some of the more technical points will carry only a few marks.

• Does the pack design sell the product it contains?

• Is the product presented in a competitive way to stand out from alternatives?

• Is the shape and form of the packaging interesting, new, unique, different and appealing?

• Will the pack be able to be transported, stored and displayed well, considering impact and efficient use of space on the retailers’ shelves?

• Is the packaging concept eco-friendly? Can the materials be easily separated and recycled? (NB: Refer to the Design for Recycling Booklets available on this website)

• Do the materials chosen for the packaging fit the purpose and are they cost effective?

• Is the design practical for manufacture and filling?

• Does the pack design offer adequate product protection?

• Is the mock-up well constructed and presented? Does it conform to the written submission?

• Is the  submission well presented and clearly laid out? Does it assist in the evaluation of the entry?

• Are all aspects of the entry presented professionally?

• Does the entry display any new, unique or different ideas? (Even if disregarding practicality or cost)?