What are the ranks and ratings of sound design and mixing? What variables matter?
Maybe it’s about, can you understand the dialog or can the music be heard and felt? How will the mix sound when it’s played in a pod with other commercials on T.V. or YouTube on headphones or computer speakers? How loud is it? How fast was it accomplished?
Maybe these are the real metrics. How does it make you feel? Does it elevate? Is it unexpected? Does it create interest and hold attention? Most importantly, is it the right mix to serve the project or your client.
Many important things in life can only be measured indirectly or not at all.