My first thought when I saw that question was alliances. But, '99 was my first year in FIRST, so all I've known are alliances. But this point has been covered real well, so that's all I'll say.
My next thought was Chief Delphi. CD brought together teams from across the country (and beyond!) to share ideas, plans, and hypothetical situations throughout the entire season. This community, I believe, has been an incredible contribution to the growth and evolution of FIRST. I can't imagine what it would be like without CD. And, besides all the technical advantages of being able to share ideas and get great advice and help...FIRST just wouldn't be the same without getting to know people through this forum. I remember when I first met Andy Baker (yes Andy, I still remember
) at the 2001 Nats and he came up to me with Michael and said, "you must be Christina." It was the first time I've ever met anyone from the forum (in person) and I already felt like I knew him. It was great!
Well, that my $0.02. Heh. I can't even remember the last time I replied to a QOTW.
