The Make48 competition has seen its share of esteemed judges, from industry veterans to community leaders. While their backgrounds vary, they all possess a keen eye for innovation, marketing, and teamwork.
To help aspiring Make48 competitors navigate the judging process, we sought insights from three notable judges who know the competitions well: Kevin Mako, Founder of MAKO Design + Invent; Kristie Larson, Strategic Relationship Manager at The DeBruce Foundation; and Joel Gordon, Senior Solutions Specialist at MatterHackers.
Kevin Mako's Advice: Focus on Impact and Execution
Mako emphasizes the importance of presenting ideas and commanding a strong execution.
“When forging your idea, think about impactful and effective solutions that have a clear path to implementation. Ideas are great, but having a strong and realistic execution plan is paramount.
When presenting, it is best to have clear, actionable, and impactful statements that are direct to the point. Ensure all team members are proud and confident in your idea, as that will come across in the presentations.”
Kristie Larson's Tips: Energy, Agility, and Fun
Larson offers three key tips for success and encourages teams to embrace the learning experience.
“One: Bring energy and a positive attitude. Two: Lean into each other's Agilities© and leverage individual strengths. Three: Have fun and embrace the unique learning experience.”
During pitches, teams should divide tasks based on individual strengths. “It’s important to have the teams be student-led, particularly in the high school competitions, allowing the young participants to fully own their own ideas and experiences.”
She encourages teams to utilize the resources and experts around them, foster curiosity and keep on asking questions to ensure their success. “Don’t let one mistake stifle you. Re-focus and keep moving on.”
Joel Gordon's Perspective: Problem-Solving and Openness
Gordon, a seasoned designer, has donned both Tool Tech and judge roles.
“I have been a professional designer/prototyper for many years. That means that I am usually the person responsible for building the "thing" that someone else imagined.
Typically, when someone comes to me with a concept, I am not interested in hearing about the "thing" they dreamed up. Instead, tell me the challenge/problem and then tell me your solution. In other words, don't tell me that you've invented the left-handed, motorized, multi-tool screwdriver. Tell me about the problem, then tell me how your - left-handed, motorized, multi-tool screwdriver - is going to solve that problem.
Too often, as inventors/creators, we fall in love with our own product. When that happens, it can blind us to opportunities to improve the "thing". If you convince yourself that your idea is the greatest thing since the automatic bread slicer, you might hesitate to listen to constructive criticism or ideas from your team members that could ultimately improve the "thing."
If you want to impress a judge, show them that your team is focused on the problem/challenge, that you have a clear vision and can easily articulate what the solution should be. and that you are open to ways of improving your idea/product.”
The judges also highlighted some common missteps:
Chewing gum: It's unprofessional and distracting.
Mumbling: Speak clearly and confidently. Keep the microphone close to your mouth.
Rambling: Keep your presentation concise and focused.
Impressing the Make48 judging panel requires a combination of innovative thinking, planning, and effective communication.
Focus on the problem, present a clear solution, and demonstrate teamwork and openness. Remember, energy, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude can go a long way. By following these expert tips and avoiding common pitfalls, you'll increase your chances of success in the Make48 competition. Share this post with a fellow or future Make48 team member!