Evaluation Criteria and Weighting

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All ISAUnited whitepapers undergo a structured 5-point, 100-point scoring evaluation to ensure consistency, engineering rigor, and complete alignment with the Defensible 10 Standards (D10S). This system provides a clear and repeatable method for assessing technical quality and contribution:

 

1.  Technical Accuracy & Engineering Rigor (25 Points)

 

Evaluates whether the paper demonstrates correct, precise, engineering-grade technical content.

Includes:

• Correct architectural concepts

• Accurate use of engineering terminology

• Valid technical explanations (protocols, flows, designs)

• Use of TMC (Technical Mathematical Computation) when appropriate

• Engineering defensibility

 

​2.  Alignment to the Defensible 10 Standards (D10S) (25 Points)

 

Measures how well the paper incorporates, maps to, or advances the Defensible 10 Standards. NOTE: It is not mandatory to state D10S in the paper, but alignment is required.

Authors are assessed on:

• Mapping to relevant D10S domains

• Correct use of D10S terminology, patterns, and engineering principles

 

​3.  Clarity, Structure & Scholarly Writing Quality (20 Points)

 

Evaluates the professionalism and readability of the writing.

Includes:

• Logical structure and coherent flow

• Clear problem statements and conclusions

• Consistent ISAUnited writing rules (cadence, no contractions, precision in wording)

• Effective use of tables, diagrams, or figures

• APA-aligned citations when applicable

 

​4.  Innovation, Insight & Architecture/Engineering Contribution (20 Points)

 

Evaluates the strength of the idea or contribution to the field.

Measured by:

• Originality of concepts or models

• Contribution to architectural or engineering practices

• Novel solutions, frameworks, or perspectives

• Ability to advance defensibility, resilience, or security-by-design thinking

 

​5.  Practical Value, Applicability & Evidence Support (10 Points)

 

Evaluates whether the paper provides actionable, defensible, usable architecture or engineering value.

Includes:

• Evidence-backed recommendations

• Clear implementation pathways

• Architecture defensibility (logic, data, diagrams)

• Strength and relevance of supporting research

• Practicality for engineering teams or organizations

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