Ref Roles & Training
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==Overview== | |||
We want crewing to be as enjoyable as possible – our current referee team work the whole event, but our goal is to recruit enough new refs that everyone could take some time off if they need too. If you’ve ever thought about trying out reffing, but still want a chance to roleplay with your friends during the event, then this could be the perfect time to try that. | We want crewing to be as enjoyable as possible – our current referee team work the whole event, but our goal is to recruit enough new refs that everyone could take some time off if they need too. If you’ve ever thought about trying out reffing, but still want a chance to roleplay with your friends during the event, then this could be the perfect time to try that. | ||
If you’re interested at all, please email crew@profounddecisions.co.uk and let us know what you’d be interested in doing. | If you’re interested at all, please email [mailto:crew@profounddecisions.co.uk crew@profounddecisions.co.uk] and let us know what you’d be interested in doing. | ||
There are several ways to help out refereeing in Empire plus there are options for training and coaching that you can request | There are several ways to help out refereeing in Empire plus there are options for training and coaching that you can request | ||
==Ref roles | ==Ref roles== | ||
* Full time ref - for crew that want to ref the majority of the event | * Full time ref - for crew that want to ref the majority of the event | ||
* Reduced hours ref - similar to full time ref but with less shifts | * Reduced hours ref - similar to full time ref but with less shifts | ||
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* Time commitment (a shift is ~5 hours) - timings can be flexible as agreed with | * Time commitment (a shift is ~5 hours) - timings can be flexible as agreed with Head Refs or Shift Leads but reffing a battle in your monstering slot does not count towards the number of shifts you have reffed as this is covered by play one / monster one requirement. Being coached / trained does not detract from shift time as assumed to be on the job training | ||
* Backstage access - Access to the Crew Welfare Space for | * Backstage access - Access to the Crew Welfare Space (only when on shift for shift refs) Crew Party & Crew T-shirts for full and part time only | ||
* Database access - When required database access will be granted at the start of shift and removed at end of shift so no pressure to perform ref duties on an off shift | * Database access - When required database access will be granted at the start of shift and removed at end of shift so no pressure to perform ref duties on an off shift | ||
* Time off type - if playing a character follow the appropriate guidelines for [[Time off]]. Note all refs are regularly vetted for rules or conduct infractions | * Time off type - if playing a character follow the appropriate guidelines for [[Time off]]. Note all refs are regularly vetted for rules or conduct infractions | ||
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We are developing ways to offer training and coaching for referees of all types. This can be combined with any of the roles above although options for coaching during battles is limited currently. | We are developing ways to offer training and coaching for referees of all types. This can be combined with any of the roles above although options for coaching during battles is limited currently. | ||
Each event there will be slots for 1:1 coaching and training with one of our more experienced crew refs. To book a slot contact | Each event there will be slots for 1:1 coaching and training with one of our more experienced crew refs. To book a slot contact [mailto:crew@profounddecisions.co.uk crew@profounddecisions.co.uk] and let us know your preferred slots, noting there will be a limited number of slots in each shift | ||
'''Combat reffing''' - primarily focussed on skills needed to ref skirmishes and battles but can also apply to combat in Anvil e.g. duels | '''Combat reffing''' - primarily focussed on skills needed to ref skirmishes and battles but can also apply to combat in Anvil e.g. duels | ||
'''Tablet reffing''' - focused on the various transactions you may be asked to perform or players e.g. processing rituals, bondings etc | '''Tablet reffing''' - focused on the various transactions you may be asked to perform or players e.g. processing rituals, bondings etc | ||
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If you collect your equipment during the event i.e. once time in has been called/after 6pm on Friday, you will need to liaise with the Shift Leader/Co-Head Ref or Ref Coach, if you are being trained, who can help you to obtain the equipment needed. | If you collect your equipment during the event i.e. once time in has been called/after 6pm on Friday, you will need to liaise with the Shift Leader/Co-Head Ref or Ref Coach, if you are being trained, who can help you to obtain the equipment needed. | ||
If you are battle reffing then the timeline of when and how to get your equipment can be found here [[Battle Ref Guidelines]] | If you are battle reffing then the timeline of when and how to get your equipment can be found here [[Battle ref guidelines|Battle Ref Guidelines]] | ||
==Signing In & Out for your shift== | ==Signing In & Out for your shift== | ||
You will be asked to sign in and collect your equipment so you can start your shift at the agreed time. You can do this by liaising with the Shift Leader/Co-Head Ref | You will be asked to sign in and collect your equipment so you can start your shift at the agreed time. You can do this by liaising with the Shift Leader/Co-Head Ref. | ||
'''Combat reffing''' – you will be allocated a Skirmish team who have a fixed timetable and | '''Combat reffing''' – you will be allocated a Skirmish team who have a fixed timetable and the team should be near the monster room, if not you can always go to the Regio and ask another ref to radio and co-ordinate meeting up. | ||
'''Tablet reffing''' - you can meet at one of the fixed locations i.e. Regio or RAT. There will be a sign in sheet to confirm you have collected your equipment and database access has been granted to you. | '''Tablet reffing''' - you can meet at one of the fixed locations i.e. Regio or RAT. There will be a sign in sheet to confirm you have collected your equipment and database access has been granted to you. | ||
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'''Tablet reffing''' - you can return the equipment to one of the fixed locations i.e. Regio or RAT. You will be able to use the same sign in sheet to confirm you have returned your equipment and database access has been revoked at the end of your shift. | '''Tablet reffing''' - you can return the equipment to one of the fixed locations i.e. Regio or RAT. You will be able to use the same sign in sheet to confirm you have returned your equipment and database access has been revoked at the end of your shift. | ||
Please note - you MUST make sure all of the equipment is returned to the | Please note - you MUST make sure all of the equipment is returned to the referee team, because the same equipment is used for Battle Refs. | ||
==Disclaimer== | ==Disclaimer== | ||
The reduced hours ref and shift ref are new roles and therefore, the details above are subject to change or amendment following them being used in practice. | The reduced hours ref and shift ref are new roles and therefore, the details above are subject to change or amendment following them being used in practice. | ||
==Shift Leader== | |||
A Shift Leader will manage one area during the shift e.g. Skirmish or Anvil, and is the first point for escalation for any issues. They will deal with minor issues and escalate more serious issues to one of the Head Refs. This is a facilitation role and while they are expected to be experienced refs they are not expected to be experts in all areas of reffing and will often defer technical decisions to experts in that area. | |||
<br><br>What a shift ref '''is''' expected to deal with: | |||
*Checking the team have the right numbers, referring to the [https://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/empireplotwiki/Ref_Rota Ref Rota] and noting Skirmish Shift Lead will also need to balance Plot and War teams | |||
*Ensuring the team have the opportunity to have breaks throughout the shift and are not getting too tired or overwhelmed | |||
*Assigning buddies to newer team members or refs asking for training | |||
*Coordinating ref numbers with other Shift Leads or teams e.g. team members having to drop out, unexpected combat in Anvil, reallocating after Skirmishes stop for the evening or if one area is unexpectedly shorthanded | |||
*Ensuring the team have all the resources needed to do their job e.g. database access, tablets, radios, encounter timetables, lights for night fights etc | |||
*Liaising with other depts on normal cross departmental issues | |||
*Acting as a tie break in judgement calls between other refs | |||
*Providing meal tickets to Shift Refs | |||
<br>What the Shift Leader '''is not''' expected to deal with: | |||
*Answering complex questions or judgement calls- these should either handled by experts in the team or escalated to Head Refs or other Depts as required [[Organisation, Roles & Responsibilities]] | |||
*Dealing with serious disputes within the team or with other Depts - these should be escalated to Head Refs | |||
{{RefLinks}} | |||
Latest revision as of 09:41, 2 August 2026
Overview
We want crewing to be as enjoyable as possible – our current referee team work the whole event, but our goal is to recruit enough new refs that everyone could take some time off if they need too. If you’ve ever thought about trying out reffing, but still want a chance to roleplay with your friends during the event, then this could be the perfect time to try that.
If you’re interested at all, please email crew@profounddecisions.co.uk and let us know what you’d be interested in doing.
There are several ways to help out refereeing in Empire plus there are options for training and coaching that you can request
Ref roles
- Full time ref - for crew that want to ref the majority of the event
- Reduced hours ref - similar to full time ref but with less shifts
- Shift ref - for players wanting to help out for a 5 hour shift
- Battle ref - players that want to help ref during their monstering battle slot
| Role | Minimum Time commitment | Ticket type | Meal tickets | Backstage access | Database access | Time off type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battle ref | Monstering battle | Player | None | Limited | None | Player |
| Shift ref | 1 shift | Player | 2 | Limited | When required | Event |
| Reduced hours ref | 3 shifts | Crew | 7 | Yes | When required | Game |
| Full time ref | 4 shifts | Crew | 7 | Yes | Yes | Game |
- Time commitment (a shift is ~5 hours) - timings can be flexible as agreed with Head Refs or Shift Leads but reffing a battle in your monstering slot does not count towards the number of shifts you have reffed as this is covered by play one / monster one requirement. Being coached / trained does not detract from shift time as assumed to be on the job training
- Backstage access - Access to the Crew Welfare Space (only when on shift for shift refs) Crew Party & Crew T-shirts for full and part time only
- Database access - When required database access will be granted at the start of shift and removed at end of shift so no pressure to perform ref duties on an off shift
- Time off type - if playing a character follow the appropriate guidelines for Time off. Note all refs are regularly vetted for rules or conduct infractions
Training & Coaching
We are developing ways to offer training and coaching for referees of all types. This can be combined with any of the roles above although options for coaching during battles is limited currently.
Each event there will be slots for 1:1 coaching and training with one of our more experienced crew refs. To book a slot contact crew@profounddecisions.co.uk and let us know your preferred slots, noting there will be a limited number of slots in each shift
Combat reffing - primarily focussed on skills needed to ref skirmishes and battles but can also apply to combat in Anvil e.g. duels
Tablet reffing - focused on the various transactions you may be asked to perform or players e.g. processing rituals, bondings etc
Additionally there will be online sessions in between events that are organised on the referee Facebook or Discord groups
Referee Shifts
The event is divided up into 5 roughly equal shifts of around 5 hours each with a few variations. Friday and Sunday are each a little longer based on the hours of Time In Skirmish reffing starts at around 09:00 on Saturday and Sunday for battles and ends mid way through the evening shift on Friday and Saturday as the light levels drop Anvil reffing starts at 10:00 on Saturday and Sunday and runs through to time out
- Friday evening 18:00 - 01:00
- Saturday morning 09:00 - 14:00
- Saturday afternoon 14:00 - 19:00
- Saturday evening 19:00 - 01:00
- Sunday 09:00 - 15:00
Collecting your Equipment
It is the person’s responsibility to make sure they have the right equipment and access to conduct the role they have volunteered for. Any questions or concerns can be directed to the Shift Leader/Co-Head Ref/Ref Coach (if you are being trained).
The following equipment is needed for each of the ref roles depending on whether you are doing combat / tablet reffing or both.
| Role | Equipment | Combat/Skirmish specific | Tablet/Field specific |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shift ref | Yellow/Black tabbard Radio & Headset |
Cheat sheet Notepad & pencil |
Tablet Database Access |
| Reduced hours ref | Yellow/Black tabbard Radio & Headset |
Cheat sheet Notepad & pencil |
Tablet Database Access |
| Full time ref | Yellow/Black tabbard Radio & Headset |
Cheat sheet Notepad & pencil |
Tablet Database Access |
If you are starting your shift at 6pm on Friday, then you should be able to pick up your equipment from the ref team from 3pm onwards.
If you collect your equipment during the event i.e. once time in has been called/after 6pm on Friday, you will need to liaise with the Shift Leader/Co-Head Ref or Ref Coach, if you are being trained, who can help you to obtain the equipment needed.
If you are battle reffing then the timeline of when and how to get your equipment can be found here Battle Ref Guidelines
Signing In & Out for your shift
You will be asked to sign in and collect your equipment so you can start your shift at the agreed time. You can do this by liaising with the Shift Leader/Co-Head Ref.
Combat reffing – you will be allocated a Skirmish team who have a fixed timetable and the team should be near the monster room, if not you can always go to the Regio and ask another ref to radio and co-ordinate meeting up.
Tablet reffing - you can meet at one of the fixed locations i.e. Regio or RAT. There will be a sign in sheet to confirm you have collected your equipment and database access has been granted to you.
You will be asked to sign out and return your equipment once your agreed shift is completed.
Combat reffing – you should be able to hand in the equipment to the other referees on your Skirmish team.
Tablet reffing - you can return the equipment to one of the fixed locations i.e. Regio or RAT. You will be able to use the same sign in sheet to confirm you have returned your equipment and database access has been revoked at the end of your shift.
Please note - you MUST make sure all of the equipment is returned to the referee team, because the same equipment is used for Battle Refs.
Disclaimer
The reduced hours ref and shift ref are new roles and therefore, the details above are subject to change or amendment following them being used in practice.
Shift Leader
A Shift Leader will manage one area during the shift e.g. Skirmish or Anvil, and is the first point for escalation for any issues. They will deal with minor issues and escalate more serious issues to one of the Head Refs. This is a facilitation role and while they are expected to be experienced refs they are not expected to be experts in all areas of reffing and will often defer technical decisions to experts in that area.
What a shift ref is expected to deal with:
- Checking the team have the right numbers, referring to the Ref Rota and noting Skirmish Shift Lead will also need to balance Plot and War teams
- Ensuring the team have the opportunity to have breaks throughout the shift and are not getting too tired or overwhelmed
- Assigning buddies to newer team members or refs asking for training
- Coordinating ref numbers with other Shift Leads or teams e.g. team members having to drop out, unexpected combat in Anvil, reallocating after Skirmishes stop for the evening or if one area is unexpectedly shorthanded
- Ensuring the team have all the resources needed to do their job e.g. database access, tablets, radios, encounter timetables, lights for night fights etc
- Liaising with other depts on normal cross departmental issues
- Acting as a tie break in judgement calls between other refs
- Providing meal tickets to Shift Refs
What the Shift Leader is not expected to deal with:
- Answering complex questions or judgement calls- these should either handled by experts in the team or escalated to Head Refs or other Depts as required Organisation, Roles & Responsibilities
- Dealing with serious disputes within the team or with other Depts - these should be escalated to Head Refs