I think that any central database that is formed should include data from the team itself, as well as at least one objective report from another team. This way, people can get both a report of what the robot is theoretically capable of doing, as well as what it has already done.

It would be best to have teams doing these reports at every regional. After all, multiple reports are a good thing, and it saves time down in Florida and later regionals when you already have 80% of teams recorded once. You don't want to get stuck photographing (and scouting) EVERY robot at Nats. (trust me, I know, I spent a good few hours taking pictures in 2001)

If everyone works together on this, it means more fun and less scouting for everyone.

what you see is what they did
 

All-

Please don't forget one of the highlights of SOAP's scouting efforts - digitally recording & archiving the matches. Text data goes only so far (especially subjective data) and that's understandable. Of course the cameraman isn't focused on just one robot and doesn't get too many close-ups, but being able to do 'instant replay' and see how a team performed is priceless. If nothing else, a study of both data and video on a group of teams should indicate to you who are the stronger/weaker teams in that group. Then (hopefully) this will aid in producing a winning or high scoring strategy.

The last 2 years 108 has digitized KSC, Chicago, and EPCOT and plans likewise in 2002. Support from 111 and 74 yields coverage of W. MI and GLR. Tom S. from 177 has offered to help record at the UTC Regional if he can pull together a few more resources. We'd like to add one of the California events to the mix. Would someone like to volunteer their team's support?

Later,
KA - 108

I can't speak officially as I'm not part of the Strategy Team, (which is in charge of scouting). But I know we scouted for one of the data bases last year and this year we will have more people available. So we should be able to help cover the LA and San Jose regionals.

Sean330 on this forum would probably be a good initial contact.

We (Team 201) might be able to do some video for you. We have a digital still camera and a digital video camera that we could use for that. I am not sure what regionals we'll be attending (due to travel restrictions). The only one I know we are attending is the Ohio regional. When I learn of the others, I will let you know.

thank you all!
 

Hey! I'm Steph from WHS robotics and just felt like adding in a quick note. Thank you all sooooooooo much for all your fantastic comments, suggestions, and offers of support. (BTW, good work Yanika!) Hopefully we can all work together and pull this off!