Online Run Submissions: Understanding Video Views & Judging Access

When you submit an online run to NASDA, judging is completed using the video link you provide. Occasionally, exhibitors notice that their YouTube video shows no views, fewer views than expected, or that views appear delayed. This can understandably cause concern.

Below is an explanation of why this happens and what you should know.

Why Don’t I See Views on My Video?

There are several reasons your video may not show views immediately — or at all — even after judging has occurred.

1️⃣ YouTube View Count Delays

YouTube does not update view counts in real time.

  • Views may take hours — or sometimes longer — to register.
  • YouTube uses automated systems to verify “valid” views before displaying them publicly.
  • Some legitimate views (including judges reviewing your run) may not be counted immediately.

2️⃣ YouTube’s View Filtering System

YouTube filters views it considers:

  • Duplicate views
  • Rapid repeat views
  • Automated or system-generated views
  • Views that do not meet its internal engagement criteria

Because NASDA judges often:

  • Pause
  • Rewind
  • Rewatch sections
  • View from multiple devices

YouTube may not count those views the way you expect.

3️⃣ Judge Access Without Public View Count Changes

Judges may access and review your video:

  • While logged into administrative or judging accounts
  • In ways that do not immediately update the public view counter
  • Using internal tracking links

In short: Judging can occur even if your video still shows zero views.

What If My Video Truly Has Not Been Accessed?

If your run has been submitted and you:

  • Have not received judging results within the standard processing timeframe, and
  • Are concerned the video may not be accessible,

Please verify that your video is set to:

✅ Unlisted
❌ Not Private

Private videos cannot be accessed or judged.

If needed, you may contact admin@nasda.dog for assistance.

Important Reassurance

The YouTube view count is not used to determine whether a run has been judged. NASDA tracks submissions internally and assigns them to judges through our administrative process.

A low or zero view count does not mean your run has been ignored.

Best Practices for Online Submissions

  • Set video to Unlisted
  • Do not delete or replace the video after submission
  • Ensure video remains accessible until results are finalized
  • Submit a clear, uninterrupted recording of the full run