[waialua359]

Originally Posted by Rangel(kf7fdb)

Overall I feel like it wouldn't be the end of the world for FIRST to at least try out no stop build day. Someone mentioned that we launch a study but I really don't see how any study is going to be worth anything unless it's actually implemented. Everyone has their idea of what the effects of no stop build day would be but no one really knows for sure. If FIRST can survive trying out regolith, minibot/can arm races, the 2010 ranking system, and no defense, I don't think it is that unreasonable to implement no stop build day for 2018 just to see what the actual results are.

While it wouldnt hurt per say, I dont think FIRST should just try it out. If they ever decide to stop the stop build day, there is no turning back.
They created this situation by allowing an xx lb allowance back when teams were unable to access their shops/robots because of forces beyond their control. As a result, that little window they allowed has drastically changed the landscape for many teams in how they approach the build season and the philosophies that go with it. What magnified the situation was the creation of bag/tag to alleviate the growing demand, needing more and more sponsorship from FedEx to send robots to events as the standard. While the mentality towards build season has changed for many teams....i.e. building 2 robots, I dont believe that FIRST overall has changed their philosophy for why they created FRC. Even with the new strategic plan demonstrated by the pillars of FIRST, I think that mission, while updated, fundamentally remains unchanged.
With or without this survey, I believe they are at crossroads because the vehicle they created of getting kids inspired by STEM was a competition. You have folks that care more about the inspiration part and you have others that are passionate about the competition part. I see FIRST having to bend on some of their initial philosophies and mission in order to get rid of the 6 week build season window, while at the same time, making it easier for teams that want to compete at a higher level.

Once you stop the stop build day, the "6 week" term goes out the window forever and the ramifications will be enormous. I just hope that whatever suggesions are made and used, will be a positive step in the right direction for all.