Receiving recognition from others is always a great feeling. Whether it be for sports, business or personal compliments; recognition from others is something we all value and strive for. Trophies, plaques, medals and other recognition products are a great way to honour the efforts of others. While a pat on the back or verbal praise also do the job, presenting something tangible someone can hold and something that will last a lifetime ensures the rewarding effects can be remembered for many years. Trophies and plaques also provide much more than the rewarding feeling of giving and receiving recognition. They actually set up behaviours that ensure future success and can benefit both the presenter and recipient of the trophy or plaque. trophy

Walk into any successful sports team clubroom and you will notice the vast number of recognition products adorning their walls and cabinets. Trophies, cups, shields and plaques acting as a lasting reminder of past successes. These all contribute to the culture within the club. People feel good when they receive a trophy for their efforts or success and reinforced behaviour is always more likely to occur in future events. This leads to a 'ratchet effect'; people that are rewarded will build on past success and continue with the rewarded behaviours which allows them to achieve even higher goals and praise. Trophies and plaques displayed on their walls and shelves are a testament to their success and also a motivation for them to do even better next time, each trophy adds a step up on the ratchet. Other teams competing for the same trophies will have to increase their own efforts, this leads to the ratchet effect across all teams in the league. Overall this is better for the spectators and players as the standard of competition rises year on year.

This ratchet effect seen in sports is also found in business settings. In these cases, people that are rewarded with trophies, improve the productivity and profit for their companies. This is also great for consumers, as increased productivity reduces prices and creates better quality products. Just as in sports teams, businesses should strive to achieve a culture of success and excellence amongst their team. While trophies, plaques, awards and medals are commonplace in any sports clubroom, it is less so in business settings. In these uncertain economic times is imperative that businesses are able to have a determined workforce willing to give their best to ensure the survival of the company and their jobs.

Sports trophies and awards are usually figurines and cups as these are relevant to their sport. In business a different kind of trophy is needed to reflect the 'team' and 'sport'. Corporate trophies and awards are best done in glass, crystal or acrylic materials which have a much more professional appearance. Plaques and honours boards are also a great alternative to trophies in business settings, as they also allow for a lot more text and the inclusion of company branding and logos.

Applying the ratchet effect in your sports or business team through presenting trophies and plaques is a great way for individuals and the team as a whole to do better over time. In sports this creates a higher standard of competition which allows players to reach their full potential, as well as providing a great spectacle for fans and inspiring the next generation to succeed. In business this leads to increased profitability and productivity, helping consumers to get a better product and businesses to grow and succeed. With many countries heading into recession for 2012, business success will be key this year to improving the economies of the world.