Image Discuss: TechnoKat Robot 2003

Originally posted by EvilInside
Well, the thing is, I don't need to see it move. I don't need to know how much traction it has, how good the drivers are, etc. You see, I have another WAY. An IDEA. Now, I ask, is it better to

a) Start using the pictures online to get an idea of what is going to go on, make some base strategies, and then refine them when you see the robots in action

or

b) Go into the competition completely blind and trying to formulate strategies on the fly, not having anything prepared at all

You see, with a little thought and some planning, strategizing now can help in the long run. And, is it hurting anyone?

Ive been doing strategy for a couple of years and the one thing I have learned is that pictures can be deceiving. Im not saying ours is or isn't, but whats going to happen when you develop strategies from pictures you have seen? Maybe a team has a secret weapon that they haven't unveiled or are not telling you about, maybe the robot is too strong, fast or agile for your strategy. I remember at the Great Lakes Regional in 2000, the strategy team prepared this strategy against the mighty Chief Delphi bot in the finals. It was working until they went over to our goal and stole many of our balls out of the basket. Nobody knew that they could even do that, never the less do it in the little amount of time it took for them to steal and score. The whole arena went into shock and there was a large gasp of fear. Basically what Im trying to say, until you see a robot run in person, strategies will do jack for you. All pictures can do is give an idea about what they supposedly can do. Just hang on to your pants buddy, regional time is near.