Mark reprinted Tim's article on CoffeeGeek and there was an active discussion thereafter (
link). Quite honestly, I didn't know what to think after the first reading because I struggled to find evidence of concrete proposals in the piece. Even having read the article three time, it seems like there are two articles in one.
The opening asserts "The press and spectators are not interested in the WBC. Latte art exhibitions pack 'em in. Baristas' creativity is stifled by overly-comprehensive rules and regulations." Then the next five sections discuss the specifics of the rules, judging, and qualms about certification, none of which struck me as significant causal factors in his claim that the WBC is failing to attract interest or squashing creativity. Sounded like sour grapes from a former champ and candidate WBC judge to me.
Fortunately, the conclusion,
"Knock knock! Who's there? The Future" ends with practical suggestions that address the problems cited in the introduction. Most poignantly Tim asks "Why isn't there a forum for the WBC at the WBC web page?" That said, I thought the article would have greatly benefited from editorial review. As presented, more than half the article dwells on points that don't advance his assertion that the WBC is broken, only that it doesn't meet his personal preferences.
Using the same scale applied to barista competitions. I'd give it a 1.5.
PS: There's no shame that Tim failed the sensory skills test. I know two respected professional cuppers who took it four times before passing. For my collection of hints and tips on doing your best, see the
SCAA Sensory Skills [Psych] Test.
by eastpresso on Mon May 15, 2006 11:14 am 
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