Wednesday, February 3, 2010

CASST - Summary

 Over the past few posts, I’ve introduced and explained my proposed solution for the NHL’s Disciplinary system, which includes both refereeing and supplementary discipline (suspensions).  The system’s acronym is CASST – Consistency Accountability Standards Separation Transparency.

In a nutshell, the problem faced by the NHL with respect to their Disciplinary system is daunting.  It is a hodgepodge of opinions, styles, beliefs and processes.  This is the way that unprofessional organizations are run.  These issues lead to problems like inconsistent decisions, lack of direction and corruption; all of which stifle the league’s image by fostering confusion and frustration amongst fans.

My solution is simple, if not difficult:
1.       Increase Consistency by implementing a quality system
2.       Make referees Accountable by using audits and rankings based on objective findings to assign playoff work and remove under-performers.
3.       Improve the Disciplinary Standards by updating the NHL Rule Book and create a Disciplinary Standards book.
4.       Separate the business interests from the hockey interests with a restructuring (replacing?) of the NHL Hockey Operations Dept.
5.       Show the public what you are doing.  This Transparency will improve people’s trust in the league and lead to a better league image.

So, why would the NHL want to implement these changes?  
1.       To separate themselves in the professional sports landscape as a quality source of entertainment.
2.       To change the league’s reputation as a “minor” professional sport.
3.       To remove confusion when dealing with Discipline.
4.       To improve the trust of fans and media in the league’s systems.
5.       To reduce any implication of corruption charges that other leagues seem to be experiencing on a regular basis.

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