[Chris Fultz]

Thursday night we had review #1, the Concept Review.

We had five managers on the review panel. Only 1 had been involved with the team in the past, and 4 of the 5 attended the kick-off event and had a basic understanding of the game. This review was led by our team captains and seniors.

After viewing the game animation, we spend about 20 minutes at the playing field further explaining the game.

We then described what we thought the critical robot features were to play this game. Next, we provided descriptions of two basic robot designs, including appendages and drive systems, and a strategy that either robot was acceptable for.

The review team asked several questions and highlighted areas of concern and caution on some design features and even drew a few of their ideas on the board for us. They questioned us on strategy and our expectations of our partners and competitors in each match.

The total review was just under 3 hours.

Before closing, the review team gave us some insight into what they will be expecting at the next review - Preliminary Design, which is next Thursday. We captured all of the review team comments and questions and used them tonight (Friday) to arrive at our final design decision.

We have now split into component design teams and will work this next week on detailed designs and drawings.

So far we have been able to stay to our basic schedule. This week will be a real challenge.


* I will try to post a brief status of each review and how the process is working for us. If is adds value to your team, let me know. If I am wasting forum space, let me know that, too. (PM or postings).