Submittable is a mixed bag
Updated July 27, 2022
Submittable is a mixed bag
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Overall Satisfaction with Submittable
We use Submittable as a way to invite artists to apply for various programs (special exhibitions, competitions, etc.). We also have used it in conducting detailed research surveys.
- It allows for artists to submit works in a variety of file types.
- It allows for keeping a record of applicants, and submitted works from past years in an archive along with contact information.
- It is a quick way to launch a competition or invite artists to submit work.
- The applicants find the process pretty easy.
- Judges can leave helpful comments alongside the applications.
- Email exchanges are archived along with the submission information.
- Technical assistance is not as swift or truly helpful as it was at the beginning.
- There is an insufficient number of submissions provided in the package. This limit should be very high for a submission software, after all this is its basic purpose.
- I don't appreciate all the hard sell and fear it will likely turn off enthusiasm for this useful product on the part of those whose approval is needed.
- Casting this as a public service or social justice product rings a bit hollow since it is such an expensive product. Submittable is well beyond the capacity of small not-for-profit organizations where the priority is offering programs to the community, and supporting artists and arts educators directly with competitive artist fees
- I have found the ability to email through the platform very helpful. I can see the questions the applicant had, my response, all the information I have provided. I can check easily on whether I notified the artist about something crucial all without having to search through email.
- Launching a new program is very fast.
- Receiving photos of proposed work, videos, etc. through the application is very useful! Previously applicants sent it in via Dropbox, a more cumbersome process.
I don't know whether the platform has done this. I always contact past applicants to encourage them to apply for other programs. Since it is easy to see who participated in past shows, this makes it easy to follow up with future programs.
Do you think Submittable delivers good value for the price?
No
Are you happy with Submittable's feature set?
Yes
Did Submittable live up to sales and marketing promises?
Yes
Did implementation of Submittable go as expected?
Yes
Would you buy Submittable again?
Yes