Suggestion: Laptop operator rename
| Author | Date | Message |
|---|---|---|
| Barry Gallagher | Jul 3 2025, 2:09pm | I'm not sure if this is the proper place for suggestions but is there any appetite for renaming "Laptop operator" to something like "Finish line". We don't have chip timing/laptop in the northwest, and we never get anyone volunteering themselves for "Laptop operator". This is due to confusion around the role, as well as the expectations outlined in the role description (which aren't applicable to non-laptop leagues). "Finish line" or similar could cover all facets of finish line, whether it's laptop recording, pen & paper, abacus etc. Just a thought. Just a thought. |
| Graham K. Bushe | Jul 3 2025, 2:22pm | Hi Barry, never any harm in asking a question..... well Laptop operator covers more than just the finish line. The laptop is used to record all runners before the race, to put them on the system for results, and keeping a record of all race starters for safety etc. As RD I would use the term "Finish Line" for those who call out runners' numbers, and those who manually record the finishers in order. However, these would come under the role of "Helper" as they would generally be the same people who looked after registration or parking or something else before the race started. Just my thoughts. But for some races, I know, there is no "laptop". |
| Barry Gallagher | Jul 3 2025, 2:39pm | Graham, all great points which make perfect sense. I therefore propose a new suggestion of leaving things the way they are! I know from talking to volunteers in the northwest, some associate the "Helper" role with marshaling, and there are occasions when someone would be happy to assist at the finish line but don't want to go out into the field. It makes them think twice about putting themselves forward as a helper and that means RD scramble for helpers in the days leading up to race day. I acknowledge that changing the roles on the site won't necessarily fix that, it's perhaps more of a communication/education thing. |
| David Power | Jul 3 2025, 3:33pm | Good topic to raise. Laptop operator is an optional role, so non-laptop (manual timing) races do not require this and no one should volunteer. People just sign up as general Helper (no specific prior knowledge required). It's a question then for the RD to assign roles, of which start and finish are two components. A volunteer can communicate directly with a RD if they have specific experience or preference but I don't think the role should be renamed, as it does require specific knowledge and is not a first time activity. That's why the shadow role exists so you can learn. |
| Graham K. Bushe | Jul 3 2025, 3:51pm | Every RD is different. I usually contact my volunteers early with suggested assigned roles (parking, reg, marshal, etc) and ask if they are happy with that role or would rather a different one. ...I might also have had a look at their volunteering history beforehand. It could be their first time. |
