Design Contests, shitty way to do business ?
 

I think it's a shitty way to treat designers. The "losers" work for free? Why?

I feel this system is used: a) for free site publicity b) by those to lazy to search for designers they like c) those clueless as to what they want

Just my unsolicited :2 cents:

The best designers will get work outside of the contests ...

:thumbsup nuff said!

Thats how contests work... there are winners & LOSERS.

Obligatory Adult Design Contest plug.

It's a chance for graphic designers in shit hole countries to work for slightly one or two peanuts more than they would be working for in their own country.

Most of the shit in the contests is pretty bad and not worthy of winning anything other than a "I just got photoshop" award.

If run correctly, a contest can be good.
Some of the losers might get work thru someone who saw their entry and liked their style.

Plus a new designer has a new image to add to a portfolio.

The contest starter should be banned if they don't pick a winner and pay.
That would help.