The award, sponsored by Deloitte & Touche, the Impact Programme, Unisys, and the Woolwich bank, is for achievement, improvement and innovation in IS management.

The judges look in particular at impact on business performance, the relationship with end-users, and the management of development or operations.

The award typically goes to a team, rather than an individual. Winners have reported benefits in terms of heightened status for the IT department and even for the entire organisation.

Past winners include Friends Provident, the Automobile Association, Halifax Share Dealing, London Ambulance Service, Eagle Star Insurance, P&O European Ferries, Ford, Tesco and Cheshire County Council. The simple nomination form is due in by December 15.

Selected entries are investigated - and receive an independent report on their performance. Three finalists make a presentation to a panel of senior executives.

The award will be presented at a prestige dinner in London next May.

* Nomination forms are available online at BCS IS Management Awards - alternatively, contact Maria Teresa Muir, telephone (01793) 417417; fax (01793) 417432; or via e-mail at: Contact Maria Teresa Muir: mmuir@hq.bcs.org.uk