I am not convinced that things are less complex if same system is used for both punch control and timing. Anyhow, separate systems can be integrated with a layer of software. There should be no need to do the timing differently than in other sports.

“Live” events have different requirements than ordinary orienteering races. That electronic punching works for timekeeping in most races does not mean that it is best solution for international events.

With respect to TVgraphics, I have yet to see an international orienteering event where they have managed to stop the clock at the finish line with the correct time. It has been like this for years. Why has it not been possible for IOF to take the necessary actions to fix this?

In general the main issue is always, that you – as a timekeeper – have to merge a) start times (if a starte gate is used), b) split times (from the punching system) and c) finish times (from photo cells) to get the full results of a competition. It would be easier for organizers if it’s allowed to use only one system for punch control and timing (less complex). Up to date, the punching systems have no IOF approval for timing at WOC, JWOC, WCup etc. On the other side in «public orienteering races» it’s state of the art, all over the world to use electronic punching for timekeeping too.

«has worked for ages» … all you need is synchronized clocks…..it’s true but not sufficient today. Even for the synchronized clocks you need experienced stuff to handle it correctly and just in time. Today, you as a timekeeper have to provide the official results (including all the split times from each control) mostly before all the athletes has crossed the finish line ;-) and don’t forget in the «new age» you wan’t to have TVgraphics. There you have to provide one working interface for split times AND finish times and not different technologies.

To improve quality: reduce complexity and use experienced teams!