[CQ-Contest] A Strategic Wrap-up [was: A Plea to Cabrillo Contet Robot Writers]

[Ev Tupis]

----- Original Message ----

May I make a small suggestion?

Why not put an RST of "00(0)" in the submitted log instead?
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In this case, the Cabrillo-spec doesn't view RST as a placeholder.  A placeholder, by Cabrillo-spec inference, is <space>.

Thinking strategically (not tactically)... if an event claims to allow Cabrillo-formatted submissions, then the thought flow goes something like this...

A.  A sponsor should require participants to submit logs that accurately reflect their activity.  This is the only way to accurately adjudicate an event and provide historical accuracy.  Follow the Cabrillo spec when determining how to apply it to their event.  Do not stray from the spec.

B.  Software authors should generate Cabrillo-formatted submissions that comply with both the Cabrillo-formatting spec and the sponsor's Cabrillo-compliant "data-to-include" spec.  Data is placed by column and placeholders are spaces.

C.  Robot authors should parse in accordance with the spec.  QSO data is to be found in fixed locations within a fixed-length QSO field.

D.  Sponsors and their Robots should reject files (both from authors and submitters who use authors products) that fail to comply.  "Dumbing down" the spec because some folks can't follow specs injects unnecessary turmoil on many levels.

E.  If the Cabrillo-format spec or the sponsor's "data-to-include" spec are ambiguous, then there should be a safe mechanism to offer meaningful well-intended input and eventual resolution (without individuals taking things personally).

Again, this is strategic (planning that avoids later problems) thought, not tactical (executing an idea) thought.

Sincere kind regards to all,
Ev, W2EV

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