**FIRST EMAIL**/2012 Beta Test Application Now Available

[Mark McLeod]

Greetings Teams,

As FRC prepares for the 2012 season we are seeking a limited number of teams to assist us with beta testing new software. A limited number of teams will also be asked to test hardware elements of the control system. Interested teams should complete the Beta Test Application available here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/N3LTRHX by Friday, September 2, 2011 at noon ET. Beta testing will run from September 2011 through the end of December 2011.

Beta Test Goals

• Test the features and functions of new elements of the control system to uncover problems and generate solutions
• Develop/refine software libraries, supporting documentation and training materials
• Allow teams to become experts and serve as area leaders to mentor other teams

Team Selection Criteria

• Community - Teams must demonstrate consistent involvement within the FIRST community. A team’s communication network should be in place and will be utilized in this project.
• Vision - Teams must prove they ‘get’ the bigger picture and vision of FIRST and must be prepared to work collaboratively for the betterment of the FRC program.
• Geographical location - FIRST will consider the locations of all teams that apply in an effort to gather diverse feedback and to create experts in as many locations as possible for future mentoring.

Required Beta Test Tasks

• Complete beta test tasks as assigned
• Post findings on the FIRST Forums on a bi-weekly basis
• Be available to answer questions from area teams and the broader FRC community
• Release every piece of code developed
• Agree to return beta test hardware to FIRST immediately upon request.

Selected teams will be notified by September 16, 2011 and beta testing will begin after FIRST receives a signed Disclosure Agreement from the beta test team. Please direct questions regarding submissions to FRCbetatest@usfirst.org.

Go Teams!