Despite the current challenging environment, this year’s Design Annual jury found hopeful signs and quality work among the 4,564 submissions. “I was reassured that design is alive and well—meaning that the design was sharp, crisp, concise if not a bit sedate in many ways,” juror Robert C. Lee said. “Perhaps this is a reflection of the social and political climate?”

"I really loved the directions some of the integrated branding programs took," said juror Angela Mack. "I was most excited by the solutions that stayed true to the brand while switching up the deliverables enough to heighten interest."

"The motion graphics stood out among the designs entered," Lee added. "The creativity and energy put into the shorts provided a sense of adventure lacking in some of the print work."

Overall, optimism for the future was expressed. "The designer sits at the crossroads of two of the biggest revolutions in human history—the information explosion and technological innovation," juror Bill Thorburn said. "The designer's ability to make sense of these two worlds and turn them into brand experiences is the greatest asset we have as designers."