2011 build season: open to the public

[TroyCDH]

I try not to follow what other teams are trying until week 3. Just from my observance, it seems that when people follow plans that someone else did--they do not give their own ideas a chance to develop.

I do like Chris's comments about teams with various levels of help and mentors. I also liked his comment that many #2 teams think they are better #3 or #4 teams. Know your team limits and strengths.

My 2 cents: Give an honest try for your ideas and prototypes before peeking at other plans. Also remember that failed prototypes are not a failed learning experience. That previous comment goes easier in build week 3 than build week 6! Design and prototype early and often.

Good luck

[Vikesrock]

I believe I've convinced 2175 to at the very least try to keep a Build Journal going on the team blog:
http://frc2175.blogspot.com/

We'll see how the students manage to keep up with that given that they haven't managed to get a post recapping the offseason written and posted yet

[Chris is me]

Giving this thread an additional little nudge. Congratulations to all of the teams that have done open build seasons so far this year! Being able to see what a dozen other teams are doing has given Shaker a lot of insight and encouraged us to really think about what we ourselves are doing.

This is also serving as a friendly reminder that it's not too late for your team to join the fun! A lot of teams like to keep a tight lid on the very early parts of their build, sharing more and more as it goes on. Even if you have some secrets in your pocket I would like to encourage you guys to blog or write as much as you can on your build in public.

We've been lucky to get a lot of exposure on our blog, averaging 180 hits a day! Hopefully that will help us in the competition season.