New to Studio? Let’s get you started!

Overview

What will I find here?
Studio holds competitions for many areas of graphic design and web design/development. From logo contests, web design, print and apparel to icons, app UI and widget design, you’re sure to find an outlet for your creativity.

Who are the clients?
Clients range from Fortune 500 corporations who need a new GUI for their applications to small businesses and start-ups looking for a new logo. Clients like AOL, Disney, ESPN, LendingTree, and GEICO seek fresh ideas and unique concepts through Studio competitions.

How much are the prize purses?
Prizes vary according to what the client wants to pay, the type of project and the amount of work involved. You’ll see simple icon or banner contests listed for a couple hundred dollars, while storyboard UI designs may go for a couple of thousand dollars.

I’ve heard you hold live tournaments. Is that true?
Yes. TopCoder holds an annual on-site tournament every year. Studio is just one of the “tracks” at this large tournament. Studio holds online rounds that allow designers a chance to qualify for the finals. During the 2010 TopCoder Open, ten Studio finalists competed in Las Vegas for a total prize purse of $29,000. The champion won the grand prize of $20,000. See more details about TCO10 here.

Are there other benefits to competing in Studio?
In addition to the prize purse that is awarded for each competition, competitors also have the chance to earn Studio Cup points. The Studio cup is a monthly bonus prize pool that is distributed to the top performers in any given month. Learn more about the Studio Cup here.

How to Compete

Where do I register?
Studio is part of TopCoder, Inc. All registrations for TopCoder and Studio go through the same portal, so when you get to the registration screen, it’s important to check the Studio box as the type of registration you want when you become a TopCoder member.

OK, I am registered. How do I compete?
Any visitor to Studio can view contest details. However, in order to compete, you must be a member and you must do the following:

1. Register for the contest you wish to enter. In order to view and download any supporting documentation for a contest, you must register for that contest. Registering does not mean you are obligated to compete.
2. Sign and return your Assignment Document. All members must complete and return a standard assignment document before collecting prize money. You only need to do this once and you don’t have to do it before competing (but it’s a good idea). More information about the assignment can be found here.

What if I have questions while I am creating my design?
Each contest has detailed information within the contest details that you should follow. If you can’t find your answers there, you can visit that contest’s forum and ask questions. Your fellow members, Studio admins and the client will do their best to help clarify anything you need.

I’m ready to submit! How do I do that?
Studio competitions require all members to upload both their submission files (the files we display on the Studio site and present to the client) and their source files (the files that are transferred to the client only if you win a prize). The current system requires you to submit three files (preview image, submission files and source files) so that our system can place the files in the appropriate places. You can find more information about how to format your submission here.

I submitted my design. Now what happens?
All designs go through an initial screening phase. Submissions are screened for correct file types, copyright infringement or cheating. You will receive an email notification about your submission’s status once it’s been screened. Learn more about screening here. Once final screening is completed, the client can make their winner selection(s).

Hey, I won! How do I get paid?
In order to get paid, you must submit an IRS tax form. You will also choose how you would like to get paid (wire transfer, check or PayPal). All contest payments are scheduled and posted to your Payments page on TopCoder within 7 days of winning a contest. Your payment is then sent the following month. See more about payments here.

More Information

There are many new features coming up within Studio and more information about the Studio process that can help you succeed. We recommend:

• Take a look at Active contests and their associated forums
• Check out the Studio blog for updates and the resource section for helpful info
• Participate in the forums and asking your fellow members for help

We’re glad you’re here and we look forward to seeing your designs! Feel free to contact us at studioadmin@topcoder.com.