Judging Criteria
Transparent evaluation framework ensuring fair and comprehensive assessment of all submissions.
Evaluation Framework
Scoring Breakdown
Innovation
Idea quality and relevance to cybersecurity challenges
30%
Evaluation Points
- Novel approach to existing problems
- Creative use of emerging technologies
- Unique perspective on security challenges
- Potential to influence industry practices
Examples
- Using AI/ML in unexpected ways for threat detection
- Novel cryptographic approaches
- Creative social engineering prevention methods
- Innovative user experience for security tools
Technical Execution
Technical execution and code quality
30%
Evaluation Points
- Code quality and architecture
- Technical feasibility and scalability
- Security best practices implementation
- Performance and efficiency
Examples
- Clean, well-documented code
- Proper error handling and edge cases
- Efficient algorithms and data structures
- Secure coding practices
Design/UX
Presentation clarity
20%
Evaluation Points
- User interface design quality
- User experience and usability
- Accessibility considerations
- Visual design and branding
Examples
- Intuitive user interface
- Clear user flows and interactions
- Responsive design across devices
- Accessible design principles
Business Value
Real-world applicability and impact
20%
Evaluation Points
- Market need and problem validation
- Commercial viability and scalability
- Real-world impact potential
- Business model and monetization
Examples
- Clear target market identification
- Validated problem-solution fit
- Scalable business model
- Measurable impact metrics
Judging Process
How Judging Works
Initial Review
2 hoursJudges review all submissions and score based on criteria
Shortlisting
1 hourTop projects are selected for final presentation round
Demo Day
4 hoursFinalists present live to judges and community
Final Scoring
30 minutesJudges finalize scores and select winners
What Judges Look For
Key Evaluation Areas
Technical Excellence
- Clean, maintainable code
- Proper security practices
- Scalable architecture
- Performance optimization
Innovation Factor
- Novel problem-solving approach
- Creative use of technology
- Unique market positioning
- Potential for industry impact
User Experience
- Intuitive interface design
- Clear user workflows
- Accessibility compliance
- Mobile responsiveness
Business Potential
- Clear value proposition
- Market validation
- Scalable business model
- Competitive advantage
Track-Specific Focus
Specialized Criteria
AI + SecurityAI/ML in security applications
Track Focus
AI/ML in security applications
Special Emphasis
- Defensive AI systems
- AI-assisted monitoring
- Model safety
- Robustness tooling
Network SecurityNetwork and infrastructure security
Track Focus
Network and infrastructure security
Special Emphasis
- Software security
- Infrastructure tools
- Protocol security
- Physical network security
TomfooleryFun, absurd, but working solutions
Track Focus
Fun, absurd, but working solutions
Special Emphasis
- Creative execution
- Working prototypes
- Humor and innovation
- Technical depth despite absurdity
Open InnovationHigh-impact innovative solutions
Track Focus
High-impact innovative solutions
Special Emphasis
- Real-world applicability
- Technical innovation
- Market impact
- Scalability
Resources
Additional Information
Download Criteria
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Learn about our expert panel of judges and their backgrounds in cybersecurity.
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