There's good reasons to believe that the portfolio that designers develop through 99designs is likely to be worth far more to them than the win itself.
I was simply pointing out the obvious difference between SO and 99D. I'm neither for nor against the 99D way of doing things. I'm sure there are many secondary benefits to be had from participating in these kinds of competitions, not least of which would be improving ones skills and (potential) work prospects.
http://www.behind-the-enemy-lines.com/2012/04/feedback-unemp...
There's good reasons to believe that the portfolio that designers develop through 99designs is likely to be worth far more to them than the win itself.