I (and perhaps other MARSupials as well) have been operating under some assumptions. Perhaps these assumptions are false and therein lies the problems.
I had assumed that there was at least a basic story framework which we as volunteer advisors would advance through our interaction. Let me demonstrate what I'm trying to say.
* Somebody knew that there was a system of tunnels under the caves. Somebody knows what metal/not metal is. Somebody knew that there was a better way to descend into the tunnels that having two probes do the "back-to-back tango" down the shaft and how to operate the elevator. Somebody knew that there were still aliens in the tunnels and that they had sophisticate weapons. Somebody knows why the aliens are taking samples. Somebody knows what the aliens have done with Bette and Daniel. In fact, somebody knew in advance that this would happen to B&D if the probes behaved as they did. Somebody knows which MNs will be friendly and which will not. Somebody knows what the possibilities are for protection of the probes and facilities on Mars. In the long term, somebody knows who the ETs are and what they are doing on Mars.
** Our job as advisors is to try and anticipate these things and guide the probes, drones, miners, etc, as they encounter each situation. We do this by brainstorming, consulting and working scenarios before advising the probes how to proceed.
This is the basis upon which I have been proceeding. If I am out of line, please tell me so that I can adjust my actions appropriately.
If the staff is truly "making it up on the fly" and there is no real "storyboard", then as Tim said, I think we are going to need some more data - like probe, drone, miner, platform and factory specs, more info from the probes about the aliens, a little better idea of probe history, capabilities, and programming, etc.
I have some ideas about defense and exploration and construction and stuff, but have no idea whether my concepts are feasible. I guess I'd better get to asking, huh?
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I really like the way this discussion is proceeding. I think we are making some good progress in strengthening our operations and cooperations toward the success of this project.
OK, soapbox mode = OFF
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Zero
0=o