reflect all aspects of the industry. The first category, the Multi-Vendor Project of the Year Award, will be judged on the degree of openness of the system, the benefit for the end-user, the overall project scope and the unique application of LonWorks towards system integration benefiting the project and the industry. The second category is the LonMark Product of the Year Award, which will be given for new products and solutions that help foster new ideas and applications. It is sub-divided into the Best LonMark Certified Device, the Best Infrastructure Product (Hardware) – including Programmable Device, Cross Industry and the Best Software Solution.

The third category, the Initiative of the Year Award, will recognize initiatives or programs whose mission is to enhance the industry and foster new ways of thinking, new product development, and/or new concepts in addressing industry issues. Special consideration will be given to the inclusion of multiple industry entities and energy efficiency, among others. The fourth and final award category is the Industry Visionary of the Year, which will be presented to an individual based upon his leadership role in the open systems industry. Special consideration will be given to nominees who demonstrate the principles of industry stewardship and the implementation of these principles in their own lives and businesses.

“The Best of Year Awards 2008 provide the chance to identify and celebrate the innovations, the companies and the individuals who are reaching the highest professional standards and helping to drive this dynamic industry forward,” concluded Ron Bernstein. Nominations are open to any individual or company and are being accepted until Monday December 15, 2008, reveals the organization’s press release.