What is a pre-launch check?

Within Award Force, program managers have the ability to ask for a pre-launch check of their program setup once every season. Our pre-launch check includes:

  • A technical check of the program configuration - excluding judging
  • The submission of one entry, including test payment if the payment gateway is configured
    Note: if only PayPal has been configured, we cannot complete a test payment. You will need to test this prior to launch. 
  • Notes on how to improve the program and entry form to assist the entrants and judges
  • Any other recommendations we feel may be relevant
  • A PDF report summarising the above points
Important: as we do not know exactly how you would like your program to run, you must complete your own internal testing to ensure you are happy with the entrant experience.

How do I request a pre-launch check?

Once you've completed the 'Pre-launch check' checklist in the Guides and tours section of your account, simply click the Request a pre-launch check link at the last step. Alternatively, you can click the 'Need help?' tab on the right side of the page and select Submit a ticket and write us a quick note! You can also request a pre-launch check at this link

Note: it's recommended that you include the date you wish to open for entries in this message. It is also important that the season you wish for us to check is active.

Why don't you provide a judging pre-launch check?

Great question! It's simply because we have no way of knowing whether it is set up to your individual needs. For example, we don't know if the right judge has been assigned to the right panel or if the criteria are correctly applied to relevant categories.

However, we are always happy to chat with you about your judging configuration in a one-on-one consultation, so you can be confident it is set up as you need. Simply ask to book some time in with one of our team members, and we'd be happy to arrange this with you.

Tip: when requesting a pre-launch check, it's helpful to include the start of your entry round.
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