Event Resource: General guide

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Getting Started

• Be open while brainstorming ideas.
  • Do not limit yourself to a specific idea to find a solution for unless it is unrelated to the theme.
  • Do extensive research to find theme-related problems.
• Before choosing a solution, draw pictures, flowcharts, etc. to get an understanding of what will be required to design that solution.
  • It is better to catch major flaws early on.
  • A solution that can be modeled and tested feasibly is ideal. 
• Coming up with ideas is sometimes the hardest part of events—don’t be discouraged! 
• After deciding on a solution, it is okay to divide up the work among team members, but remember to keep all your members informed and on the same page.

Portfolio Tips

• Read the portfolio requirements in the rule book thoroughly - it is very important that nothing is overlooked because it’s often worth the most points! 
  • Many portfolio components have page requirements.
  • Don’t forget to include forms such as the Plan of Work Log or Copyright Checklist ○ Be sure to look out for rule changes.
• Document everything! 
  • The design process—how you arrive at your final solution/prototype—is an important part of some prepared events.
  • Make sure you are making flowcharts, drawings (hand-drawn and/or CAD based on the event), explanations, etc. every time you modify your solution.
  • Organize this documentation as you progress.
  • Even if something doesn’t work or go as planned, it is important to show improvement of the solution over time.
  • It’s also important to document which resources you are using.
• A quantitative testing method will allow you to better measure the success of your solution (depending on the event).
• Your final solution should have the most focus, meaning it should have the most technical drawings, representations, models, pictures, data, etc. 
• Spend time formatting your portfolio, whether that means adding tabs, an interactive table of contents, or reordering the components for a better flow—the presentation of your solution is also very important! 

Digital/Physical Model and Display Tips

• Be sure to read the requirements. Most events will have model constraints for materials, dimensions, etc. 
• Creating a physical model can often take more time than expected; it’s better to start early.
• For digital models, it is important to have dimensions on drawings; similarly, physical models should have a scale if mentioned in the rule book.
• Be sure to have all necessary citations used in the display.
• It can sometimes be helpful to talk to other teams or your advisor to get a better idea of the type of models/display students have made in the past. However, your ideas should still be original.
• Have multiple people work on the model and display rather than just one, if possible.
• Finally, be sure to follow the submission guidelines to make sure the judges are able to evaluate your event!

On-Site Events Tips

• Select events revolving around a topic with which you have some familiarity if possible.
•  If it’s a team event, pick group mates based on each individual’s unique skill set and contribution (this goes for all events, but especially these which have smaller team limits).
•  If it’s a tested event, ask your advisors for study materials as they usually will have some.
• Read the specifications carefully and make sure you know what you’ll be doing; don’t go in blind.
• Check what materials you may need to bring, including paperwork.Check your conference’s time schedule the night before, note the time slots used up by your on-site events, and plan around them.