We say it every year, but this year’s Channel Awards judges had an extremely difficult job in selecting the shortlists. The standard of entries in some of the categories was extremely high, and whether it was a first entry for some companies, or a repeat entry for others, the quality was amazing.
However, after all the deliberating, discussion and occasional disagreements between the judges, a shortlist has finally been announced. Revealed last week on channelweb. co.uk, the lists will prove contentious to some and bring joy to others. It is worth noting that the judges believe this year had the highest standard of entries ever received, as well as the highest number of entries.
The most popular categories within the vendor section were Networking Vendor and Software Vendor and the standard was extremely high. Unfortunately, not everyone can be shortlisted.
The Distributor categories were also hotly contested, although there was a much wider gap between those distributors that did submit a good entry and those that did not.
The reseller awards saw a huge rise in number this year and every firm shortlisted should know they had to beat some stiff competition.
The judges will reconvene at the start of November to check the voting has been a fair and accurate reflection of the entries and will give their final judgements on which companies will be on the podium this year.
It is also important for contenders to understand that they are still being judged, despite making the shortlist. “The game is not over once the shortlist is decided ­ the judges will continue to form their impressions and make their own assessments right up to the last minute,” says CRN editor, Sara Driscoll.
It is up to you to decide who wins. Get your fingers ready and go to the awards site to vote now.

Official Channel Awards Home Page