I think the sum of all parts of the build are to be considered. The wiring on some kits is a lot harder than other kits. The finishing of some is different as per ones with binding take more patience when taping up etc. Whether or not someone go to the trouble of levelling the fret board etc etc etc. All of those things should be considered, as per what most of us have said. Each judge can give points as to what they deem is important to them. A build diary gives huge weight to the strugles we have all experienced in one or more aspects of the build. I don't believe upgrades should be part of the criteria because a lot of us can't afford that. For me personally the finish is a major part of a build and should be judged accordingly. I don't reckon anyone here has got it right first time, I know how many extra cans of paint I had to order. As Andy40 said it's not everything, I agree, but for something that requires a ton of patience and trial and error, sometimes re do's, lets be upfront with what we have done ourselves and what we have had done for us. In the end the judges can decide. JB