Scouting: How to Gather and Use Data

Effective scouting is a cornerstone of success in the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC). By systematically gathering and analyzing data on competing teams, your team can develop informed strategies, optimize match performance, and make strategic alliance selections. This guide provides detailed tips, tricks, and resources to enhance your scouting efforts.

Importance of Scouting

Scouting enables teams to:

• Develop Match Strategies: Understand opponents' strengths and weaknesses to tailor your approach.

• Inform Alliance Selection: Identify teams with complementary skills for potential alliances.
  
  

• Enhance Performance: Learn from top-performing teams to improve your own robot design and tactics.

What to Look for in Other Teams

When scouting, focus on collecting both quantitative and qualitative data:

1. Robot Capabilities:

   • Autonomous Performance: Tasks completed during the autonomous period.

   • Teleoperated Efficiency: Scoring actions and cycle times.

   • Endgame Proficiency: Success in endgame tasks.

2. Strategy and Playstyle:

   • Offensive vs. Defensive Play: Tendency to score points or block opponents.

   • Adaptability: Ability to adjust strategies mid-match.

3. Reliability and Consistency:

   • Technical Reliability: Frequency of mechanical or software issues.

   • Consistency: Performance stability across matches.

Data Collection Methods

Choose a data collection method that suits your team's resources:

1. Paper-Based Scouting:

   • Scouting Sheets: Use standardized forms to record observations.

   • Pros: Simple setup, no electronic devices needed.

   • Cons: Requires manual data analysis.

2. Digital Scouting:

   • Mobile Applications: Utilize apps like FTC Tracker to input data.

   • Pros: Automated data aggregation, real-time analysis.

   • Cons: Dependence on device availability and connectivity.

3. Hybrid Approach:

   • Combination: Collect data on paper and later digitize it.

   • Pros: Balances reliability and analytical capabilities.

   • Cons: Requires additional time for data entry.

Tips and Tricks for Effective Scouting

• Train Your Scouts: Ensure team members understand what to observe and how to record data accurately.
  
  

• Standardize Data Points: Use consistent metrics to facilitate comparison.
  
  

• Leverage Technology: Employ scouting apps or spreadsheets for efficient data management.
  
  

• Collaborate with Other Teams: Share non-sensitive data to gain broader insights.
  
  

• Analyze Data Regularly: Review collected data between matches to adjust strategies promptly.
  
  

Resources

• FTC SuperScout: A user-friendly platform designed to streamline data collection and analysis during FTC competitions.
  
  

• FTC Tracker: A mobile app that allows real-time monitoring of team performance and competition data.
  
  

• Scouting Worksheet Outline: A template to help teams gather consistent data on competitors.
  
  

By implementing these strategies and utilizing the available resources, your team can enhance its scouting capabilities, leading to more informed decisions and improved performance in competitions.