Every year, we celebrate excellence. In music, sports, business, culture – and increasingly, in everyday workplaces. But as the world becomes more digital, virtual and fast-moving, one might wonder: Will awards still exist in 2036? And if they do… what will they look like?
Spoiler alert: awards aren’t going anywhere. But they are evolving.
Recognition is human, and that won’t change
Let’s start with the obvious. Humans crave recognition.
Not likes. Not metrics. Not dashboards.
Real recognition.
A study from Gallup already shows that employees who feel genuinely appreciated perform better, stay longer, and feel more connected to their work. That basic need won’t disappear just because AI writes our emails or meetings happen in the metaverse.
If anything, recognition becomes more important in a digital-first world. When teams are remote, hybrid or global, moments of shared celebration matter more than ever.
Fabit
Recognition awards your team keeps
Fabit designs and produces custom recognition awards for corporate programs, from employee of the year to long service. In house production, consistent quality at any volume.
From mass-produced to meaningful
In the past, awards were often generic. Same shape, same materials, same text – different name. The future? Much more personal.
Awards are shifting from “one-size-fits-all” to custom storytelling objects. Think:
- Designs that reflect a company’s identity
- Shapes that symbolize a specific achievement
- Materials chosen for their meaning, not just their looks
An award won’t just say “Well done”.
It will say “This is why your contribution mattered.”
Digital recognition vs. physical awards
Yes, digital awards will continue to grow. Badges, NFTs, virtual trophies, especially in online communities and gaming environments. But here’s the thing: digital doesn’t replace physical. It complements it.
A physical award does something digital recognition can’t:
- It lives on a desk or shelf
- It becomes part of someone’s space
- It triggers memories every time you see it
In 2036, we’ll likely see hybrid recognition:
- A physical award paired with a digital experience
- A tangible trophy linked to a story, video or shared moment online
The object stays. The experience expands.
Less ego, more impact
Another shift we’re already seeing: why we give awards is changing. It’s no longer just about ‘best performer’, ‘top sales’, or ‘number one’. The future of awards leans towards:
- Collaboration
- Creativity
- Innovation
- Social and environmental impact
Recognition becomes less about status and more about values. Awards tell the story of what an organization truly stands for.
So… What will an award look like in 2036?
Probably:
- Custom-designed
- Thoughtfully produced
- Sustainable by default
- Part physical, part digital
- Rich in meaning, not excess
But most importantly: still proudly handed over, by humans, to humans.
Because no matter how advanced our technology becomes, celebration remains deeply personal.
Conclusion
The future of awards isn’t about whether they’ll exist. It’s about whether they’ll matter.
At Fabit, we believe awards should never be an afterthought. They should be objects with intention, designed to honor real achievements, real people and real moments.
And in 2036?
We’re pretty sure we’ll still be celebrating. Just a little smarter, a little greener, and with even more meaning.
Frequently asked questions
Will digital recognition replace physical awards?
No. Digital awards will keep growing, but a physical award lives on a desk or shelf, becomes part of someone’s space and triggers memories each time it is seen. Hybrid recognition is the likely direction.
What will awards recognize in the future?
Increasingly values rather than status, such as collaboration, creativity, innovation and social and environmental impact.
Why does recognition still matter for employees?
A study from Gallup shows that employees who feel genuinely appreciated perform better, stay longer and feel more connected to their work.
