Set the standard: Join Computing’s panel of expert judges

Where leaders judge leaders

Computing’s award shows cover every part of the technology industry, and we want your help to make them even better.

Each year, we highlight the people and projects driving technology forward in an array of stunning award ceremonies - from security to software, and cloud to AI. But the winners and finalists don’t reach that end point on their own.

Behind every shortlist is a panel of senior IT leaders who volunteer their time to judge the entries. It’s a task that’s both simple in structure and rich in insight.

Judging Computing awards isn’t about long evenings or endless forms. In fact, the process happens exclusively online, over a few weeks and at your own pace in most cases, with clear scoring criteria and a secure platform.

You read entries, weigh up impact and innovation, and give honest feedback. Many judges tell us they come away with new ideas for their own organisations: real-world solutions to problems every tech leader faces.

Of course, the value runs both ways. By joining a panel, you help ensure that recognition in our industry is based on substance, not hype. You can also connect with peers tackling similar challenges in areas such as cyber resilience, AI deployment, digital transformation and diversity in tech leadership. And you’ll be able to attend each award show on the night to meet the finalists and your fellow judges face to face.

We run six major programmes across the year: the Security Excellence Awards in March; AI and Software Development Awards in May; Digital Technology Leaders Awards in July; Cloud Excellence Awards in September; and both the UK IT Industry Awards and Women in Tech Excellence Awards in November. Each event needs experienced professionals who can judge entries with fairness and clarity.

If you’ve ever wondered how the best in tech are achieving results, there’s no better vantage point. Becoming a Computing judge offers perspective, community and influence - without the noise.

Click here to learn more or express interest in judging for 2026.