Which process must always take place in person during an event according to judging standards?

Finalist interviews for specific awards must always take place in person during an event because these interviews are critical for assessing the candidates' presentation skills, communication abilities, and overall demeanor in a direct interaction with the judges. This face-to-face engagement allows judges to evaluate not only the content of the submissions but also the passion and commitment exhibited by the finalists. In-person interviews facilitate a more nuanced understanding of the individuals involved, something that cannot be fully captured through recorded submissions or written documents.

Other processes, such as preliminary evaluations of submissions or feedback sessions with judges, can often be conducted remotely or through digital means, as they rely primarily on the analysis of the submitted materials rather than direct personal interaction. Team presentations and demonstrations may sometimes occur in various formats, but finalist interviews are mandated to be in person to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the finalists' capabilities and to foster a more interactive judging experience.