[FRC Blog] Distributors

[pilleya]

Originally Posted by bigbeezy

I'm glad they posted this. Was curious as to how AndyMark just so happened to come up with the Rhino tread but no other supplier made anything similar. AM does have an advantage by knowing more than others but at least others are aware of basic things and can make their own business decisions. Definitely needs to be a balance between telling everyone everything and everyone nothing. I like the way FIRST did it.

I'm really appreciative that they are willing to disclose their process.

Also consider the Gearbox with PTO ANDYMARK came out with it seems useful for climbing.

Only disclosing information to certain suppliers will obviously disadvantage new suppliers attempting to break into the FRC COTS market.

But as Crown KOP suppliers those three deserve to be told. I think more communication, could have enabled ANDYMARK to make the KOP drivebase more suitable for the game, such as a front wedge and potentially 8 inch wheels.