Colin Thompson Unpacks Credibility and Evolving Standards in iGaming Awards

During a recent installment of the 18Peaches #Peachmarathon series, Aziz Akylbekov engaged in a candid conversation with Colin Thompson, the esteemed Co-Founder of the International Gaming Awards (IGA). The discussion offered a unique perspective on the iGaming sector, exploring the fundamental principles of recognition, the bedrock of credibility, and the subtle yet powerful frameworks that define success within the industry.

Thompson reflected on the genesis of the International Gaming Awards, established at a time when the gambling industry frequently faced negative public perception. The IGA's founding vision was both straightforward and ambitious: to underscore the sector's positive contributions and to cultivate a platform that not only acknowledged excellence but also actively supported charitable endeavors. This initial drive, combining celebration with a strong sense of corporate responsibility, has been pivotal to the project's sustained relevance, allowing it to thrive where many other initiatives have waned.

Central to the conversation was the intricate theme of trust and the hidden efforts required to cultivate it. Thompson emphasized the imperative for distinctiveness in achieving long-term success. “You have to be unique,” he stated, further advising, “Don’t try to copy anybody else, be yourself.” This sentiment reinforces the idea that sustainable brand growth is intrinsically linked to a singular identity and consistent operational delivery.

The dialogue also illuminated the behind-the-scenes mechanisms of award evaluation, moving beyond mere stage presentations. Without divulging proprietary details, Thompson touched upon the critical role of transparency and openness in the judging process. He highlighted that true credibility isn't built on blind acceptance of decisions, but rather on a willingness to articulate and justify them, a principle increasingly vital in today's competitive landscape. This naturally leads to questions about the appropriate level of visibility needed to ensure fairness.

Furthermore, Thompson shed light on the evolution of judging criteria and nomination processes. While quantitative metrics and sheer scale continue to hold some weight, they no longer represent the complete picture. A discernible shift is occurring towards less tangible, yet equally crucial, factors. Elements such as context, brand intent, and the individuals behind an organization are gaining prominence in how excellence is assessed. This evolution extends beyond award ceremonies, influencing how companies strategically position themselves.

Regarding operational standards, Thompson noted, “Particularly for the IGA, we always challenge ourselves each year to be better than last year,” underscoring a commitment to continuous improvement. He also offered a glimpse into the pressures of live events, admitting, “The half hour before the event starts is the most stressful.”

Despite shifts in industry culture and generational expectations, the significance of formality and ceremony persists. Thompson briefly contemplated why such traditions maintain their resonance in an industry often characterized by casual networking. He concluded that what increasingly distinguishes finalists is narrative depth, emphasizing that “the story behind the company now matters more than raw numbers” when products and performance are otherwise comparable.

This #Peachmarathon discussion serves as a poignant reminder that meaningful moments of recognition are impactful when executed with deliberate intent. Colin Thompson’s insights reveal the foundational principles and critical decisions that collectively forge credibility within the iGaming ecosystem.

The full interview with Colin Thompson is available for viewing on YouTube, presented as part of the ongoing 18Peaches #Peachmarathon series.