While this thread and its data are rather interesting, I don't believe that the actual contents of the message (that is to say, that strategy and scouting are fundamental to winning a regional) are any different in past years. It only seems like a focus this year because of the fact that there is only one field object to manipulate, as opposed to a variety last year. Every robot has the same basic function. Scouting is always going to be important and I am certain that every successful team has its own individual methodology when it comes to this fact, that isn't to say that 492's system isn't impressive; rather it is another piece of the puzzle. At the same time, strategy should also
always be a given when it comes to success in the qualifications and the eliminations. It isn't un-GP not to share strategies especially because of their heightened importance this year with only two ways to score. It takes effort to think about and determine what the best course of action is. I would argue that flexibility is the key point this year. Stacks and rows can change hands quickly, and it takes a fast, analytical person (luckily, our field coach happens to be one
) to make a decision on the fly. Strategies are important as well, but they are not the be all and end all of this year's game.
This also brings up a good point. Do not discount the scouting and strategy members on your team! Some of them may not have done hands-on work with the robot, but if they are able to tell you go to "X" goal and cap it and win the match, then they are as valuable as someone who spent the time building the arm that did the capping. Far too often there is a perceived notion that strategy and scouting represent the "soft" parts of the team, but let us all remember that with an efficient and effective system, a seemingly small time alliance can work its way up to become giant slayers.