Glass Awards vs Metal and Wooden Trophies: What’s the Difference?
Glass, wood, and metal trophies do one thing: they celebrate success. But each has its own unique way of communicating the value, tone, and intentions of your organization. When selecting an award, it is not simply about price. When someone holds your award, what does it say?
And after the event, what happens to the award? A fitting award reinforces the meaning of the moment. On the other hand, an award that is misaligned will likely be lost.
EDCO glass awards are increasingly being chosen as a preferred choice in the business world due to their elegance and modern design. Organizations are using glass awards when they desire to create a polished and intentional sense of recognition, as opposed to merely ceremonial.
Why Are Glass Awards Different Than Other Materials?
Glass awards are distinct from metal and wood awards due to their clarity and finishes. Glass awards reflect light, make excellent photographs, and feel solidly built in the hand. While this creates a superior aesthetic, it doesn’t appear flashy.
Also, glass awards are versatile across various industries. They are seen in corporate offices, nonprofit events, sales ceremonies, etc., making them adaptable due to their neutral elegance.
Advantages of Glass Awards Include:
Sleek modern elegance with custom engravings
Modern and clean aesthetic
High level of perceived value
Easier to customize via engraving
Showcase trophies that spark lasting motivation
Long-term display potential
As per the United States-based Incentive Research Foundation, public displays of tangible recognition pieces significantly boost employee motivation and perceived achievement.
How Do Metal Awards Compare to Glass?
Metal awards have been around for some time and generally evoke a feeling of traditionalism and formality. Metals are commonly associated with athletic events, academic competitions, and legacy award programs.
While metal can signify strength and prestige, it can also come off as impersonal if overused. As well, there are numerous metal awards that utilize the same template, thereby diminishing uniqueness.
Some characteristics of metal awards:
Built to endure with timeless heft
Extremely durable and long-lasting
Classic and formal style
Heavy
Preserve tradition with rugged metal awards
Lacking in visual warmth
If tradition is more important than creating a unique piece, then metal awards may be a good fit.
What Makes Wooden Awards Unique?
Wooden awards project an earthy and handmade quality. Local organizations, schools, and eco-focused organizations tend to use wooden awards. Although many people find the natural look and feel of wood to be appealing, it may not fit with every organization’s desired image, especially those organizations seeking a contemporary or modern look.
Some common characteristics associated with wooden awards:
A warm and handcrafted appearance.
Lightweight awards for casual moments
Typically, lighter than glass or crystal awards.
Wooden awards tend to be less shiny and therefore have fewer photography opportunities.
Wooden awards are typically well-suited for casual or community-based type events.
Tailor recognition with the right award
While the use of wood awards will allow recipients to experience the personal touch that is often inherent in the use of wood, they may not create an impression that represents your organization as being at the high end of a particular market segment.
Glass awards are ideal for:
Corporate recognition
Recognize leaders with metal awards
Client/partner awards
Performance/leadership milestones
Metal awards are ideal for:
Celebrate enduring athletic and academic triumphs
Athletic and academic achievements
Legacy-style programs
Wood awards are ideal for:
Engage communities through meaningful connections
Community events
Eco-Focused Organizations
Gallup reports that US employees who experience meaningful recognition are more engaged and loyal. The material you choose to represent your organization affects the level of meaningfulness of that recognition.
Key Takeaways
Glass awards provide a modern, premium look with significant display value.
Metal awards highlight the tradition and durability of the award.
Wooden awards provide an earthy and personable quality.
Choosing the right material elevates recognition
Ultimately, the correct choice is dependent upon the brand image and intended audience.
Thoughtful consideration of material selection impacts the effectiveness of recognition.
