[CQ-Contest] Logbook of the World as substitute for bureau QSLing

[Pete Smith <n4zr@contesting.com>]

For several years I have followed a policy of QSLing, via the bureau 
system, all DX QSOs that are the first with that station on each band/mode 
combination.  This is done to reduce the time required to look up and 
answer each received bureau QSL individually.

With the advent of Logbook of the World, I am thinking of adopting the 
following practice:

All QSOs, both domestic and DX, will be reported to LotW every couple of 
months, after the log deadline for any contests included in the batch.  No 
more "pre-emptive" bureau cards will be sent, and I will no longer respond 
to QSLs sent to me via the bureau system.  I will respond to all QSL 
requests sent directly.  When postage is included, I will reply 
directly.  When it is not included, DX cards will go via the bureau system, 
and domestic cards will go as postcards.

I'm particularly interested to know how you think this will play with 
non-contesters.  The people who get into contests to work DX or accomplish 
award goals are crucial to the success of contesters like me, and I don't 
want to turn anyone off.  I'm interested in cutting down on "overhead" 
while, at the same time, making sure that anyone who wants credit for a QSO 
with me can get it.  Comments on the ARRL-LotW reflector were positive, but 
that's a small group and no doubt biased in favor of any strategy that 
relies on LotW.

If I did such a thing, I would put the word out during non-contest QSOs, 
and also add a line across the bottom of my cards that says something like 
"all QSOs may be confirmed via ARRL's Logbook of the World -- 
www.arrl.org/lotw/default."

What do you think?

73, Pete N4ZR

  

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