World Leader in Rating Technology Why go for IMS ?? The International Measurement System (IMS)

World Leader in Rating Technology What is IMS ?  IMS is an International handicap system for sailing yachts of a wide variety of sizes and types  IMS was developed during the 1970´s by joint US Sailing and MIT efforts and became known worldwide in 1985, when the ORC adopted it along the then current IOR.  IMS is the sole handicap rule that is authorised by the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) to hold World Championships in Offshore Racing classes, level or on handicap  IMS is scientifically based upon “State of the Art” offshore technology and a thorough measurement system  IMS is complemented by a simplified version – the ORC CLUB – for use on club level at modest costs.  IMS and ORC CLUB is currently used by more than yachts in more than 30 countries

World Leader in Rating Technology IMS objectives IMS Objectives  Shall be able to fairly rate boats at World Championships as well as in local Club races  Shall be a scientific but flexible system, capable to adjust to new trends and technologies  Shall encourage to build Dual Purpose boats – both Racers and Cruisers  Shall be able to select different handicaps according to actual wind conditions and tide  Shall give credit to age  Shall work against “rule-beating”

World Leader in Rating Technology IMS strengths  IMS strengths are  The worlds most technically developed Velocity Prediction Program (VPP)  All data predictions are based upon accurate measurements done by authorized and experienced measurers  The VPP formula is available to designers and owners, and suggestions for modifications can be submitted by National Authorities in annual reviews of the software  Offers a wide variety of scoring methods like PCS, Constructed Course, OCPCS, Offshore/Inshore etc, but also simpler options like PLS or Single Number Time-on-Time and Time-on Distance.  Provides a simplified version, the ORC CLUB, using the same algorithms and data sets. The yachts racing IMS/ORC CLUB has increased by more than 25% over the last 5 years ! !

World Leader in Rating Technology State of the Art IMS is continuously developed by  National Authorities who can draft annual submissions for the development of IMS, to be discussed and eventually decided at the ORC Annual General Meeting (AGM)  ORC International Technical Committee (ITC) which meets four times annually to evaluate on the basis new technology, trends and needs modifications of the Velocity Prediction Programme (VPP). ITC members are leading yacht designers and researchers.  ORC Race Management Committee meeting to discuss and improve scoring methods.  ORC Measurement Committee dealing with methods and procedures to measure boat data and for issuing certificates.  The Chief Measurer who is responsible to respond to upcoming questions and to issue interpretations to IMS, when so needed and in between AGM meetings.  National Authorities having Measurers and Rating Offices available to measure boats.

World Leader in Rating Technology ORC CLUB  ORC CLUB is a simplified version of IMS, based upon the VPP program  does not require measurement, but a limited set of data, provided by the owner  produces a graphic measurement certificate  provides only three simplified scoring methods (Time-on-Time, Time-on Distance and Performance Line scoring), and a wide flexibility in determining their combination.  does not need special scoring software, can be managed in a handheld calculator.  offers less accuracy, however acceptable for club level racing. Compatibility of the tw different certificates allows mixed IMS and CLUB participation in the same race.  ORC CLUB is however not recommended for championships on national level. ORC Measurers can offer further measurement options to qualify for an IMS certificate

World Leader in Rating Technology To be the Leader  ORC will ensure IMS / ORC CLUB leadership by  continuously following the development of research and design globally  being open and flexible, listening to the voices of owners, sailors and race organisers  continuing to offer non-secret formulas and measurement standards and procedures, open to improvement by annual submissions from National Authorities  developing user friendly software as well as pedagogical material and publications  offering support to countries and sailing federations with limited offshore racing tradition, centrally or through more than 35 ORC Rating offices, that are prepared to offer measuring and processing services abroad.  When countries have registered 30 certificates, they will be entitled to one representative in the Offshore Racing Congress.