Judges Criteria
Science and technology reporters need to unbundle technology so that their audiences can easily grasp the workings and appreciate the benefits of technology. The judges will find their winners from the journalists who do so in a clear and concise manner, and with individual writing styles that make their work stand out from others working in the field.
Overarching the above qualities, the judges are looking for new and creative approaches to science and technology reporting, writing and presentation that bring their subjects to life.
In years past, the quality of the entries received was of a high standard, but perhaps more attention needs to be given to providing contextual information, gathering information from more than one source - particularly for features, examining technology's casual factors or knock-on effects, and more reporting of human interest aspects. Overall, the trend is up in terms of the number of entries received, countries participating and in the depth of knowledge displayed.
The following criteria will apply:
- Display of adequate research
- Grasp of subject matter
- Clear and concise writing/presentation
- Individual writing/presentation style
- Analytical ability
- Ability to unbundle technology
Across the continent from Cape Town to Cairo there appears to be a growing belief that technology and innovation are creating the foundations for the ‘African Century'. Reading through the 264 entries from 17 countries in four languages there is almost a messianic belief in the power of technology to improve the human condition on a continent that has had its fair share of misfortune.
Journalists across the continent are finding in technology possible and real solutions to innumerable developmental problems and the Siemens Profile Awards this year reflect this almost breathless optimism. And while journalists explore technology in ever-greater depth, they are increasingly reflecting on the limitations of technology imposed by a host of inhibiting factors from political constraints to technology vendors' lack of understanding of prevailing socio-economic conditions.
As more African journalists equip themselves with an understanding of technology, they are also beginning to investigate the root and branch of this second great developmental revolution. The reporting is more focused and questioning, yet the optimism in technology's potential remains.
Noticeable is the growing sophistication of the Profile entries. Noticeable too is that increasingly journalists in this space are telling the human stories of how technological advances, small and large, are impacting on the lives of ordinary people in a positive way.
In general the judges found that the standard of entries continues to improve. They also found that the narrative style of many entries is entirely compatible with the complexities of technology reportage.
The judges were greatly encouraged by this year's entries, particularly by the fact that the great gap between the top entries and the rest in past years is closing rapidly as technology journalists demythologise technology for themselves and for their audiences. 
Kerry Swift, convener of the Profile Awards judging panel.