[akeisic]

I'll almost guarantee that FIRST will change the alliance indicator for next year. Why? The flag presents a safety hazard. I’m surprised no one has really mentioned it yet. How many times have you seen judges and refs pull off matrix like maneuvers just to avoid a flying flag? That alone is reason to change.

That said I’m a fan of the low tech solution. Why make things more complicated then they really needs to be? Sure, LEDs would be cool, but it’s just another thing that could go wrong. The flag is simple and effective. Plus, refs can easily add the yellow card flag. Not to mention, I highly doubt that next year’s game piece will be able to get caught on the flag like this year’s.

I think the flag is here to stay, but with a simple modification (surgical tubing sounds good) to keep it from becoming a projectile.