During 2012-13 some improvements have been made to the ratings web site including:

• small adjustments to the rating algorithm
• better behaviour of search forms
• the addition of a database table for "archived" players
• the ability to download CVS files of rating data for logged-in members
• improved database synchronisation

See the changelog for more details.

Looking ahead to 2013-14, additional updates to synchronisation of the rating database with the main database will be necessary if the current plan for a new version of the main website (www.icu.ie) and its database goes ahead.

I've already begun work on this new project, code named www2, but am reporting it here as there is not yet an official ICU role corresponding to web developer, programmer, IT officer or whatever it should be called. Next year I hope to be reporting on progress as Webmaster (or some such similar title) and urge you to support the motion at the AGM to create this new non-executive (non-voting) role, acknowledging the growing importance of IT to the ICU.

John Delaney has begun work on a statistical analysis of rating data (2001-present) with a view to detecting any signs of drift and making recommendations for adjustments if deemed appropriate. Expect more news of this later in the new season.

Tournament reporters haven't all yet got the hang of loading their reports ASAP after the end of a tournament to support the almost real-time rating system the ICU now has. The ICU committee have given their support to a new rule of 1 week for the maximum delay between the end of tournament and reporting it's results.