The Crystal Awards committee sets criteria, tabulates results, and certifies finalists and winners. A select panel of judges consists of CMOs, national AMA leaders or executives, nationally recognized agency leaders, authors, and marketing academics outside of the Houston area. 

All entries are judged at least twice, and by different judges, all of whom are experts in the particular category. Judges make all decisions regarding eligibility, finalists, and winners. Judges’ decisions are final. Each entry must include answers to the five questions, 800-word maximum for each question.