A definitive list of finalists has been announced for the Online Retail Industry Awards (ORIAs), with over 50 businesses listed as contestants across 10 award categories.
“These awards allow us to establish a standard of excellence baseline against which developments in each of the category areas can be assessed at industry level going forward,” says Andy Powell, chair of ORIA’s judging panel and director of multichannel at Deloitte.
“The winners in each category will exemplify what others need to achieve to stay competitive, which will drive the advancement of the industry.”
The ORIAs aim to provide a benchmark for online companies as well as bricks-and-mortar retail businesses with an online component by recognising websites that stylishly combine form and function.
Innovative business models, relevance with a target audience, engagement with users and quality of service are among the important online elements, according to Powell.
“Looking beyond the obvious elements like useability, look and feel, and content quality, we have been seeking those entrants who demonstrated a sympathetic understanding of who comes to their business and why they’re there, and can translate that understanding into a compelling and enriching experience," Powell says.
The gala awards ceremony for the 2010 ORIAs will be held on July 8 at the Parkside Ballroom at the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre in Darling Harbour.