The SCA award system has its problems. Some of these
problems include the lack of peerage level skill
awards (or orders) for fencing and archery, the messy
nature of orders and awards being combined, and the
low response level of pollings. I believe that
Carolingia has the right idea having one martial
order, one arts and sciences order, and one service
order.  
<p>
I certainly have criticisms of the SCA's award system,
but I don't believe that would be reflected in how I
gave awards. Whatever I think of the award, the
recipient, or the giver, the giving of the award
should be treated as a very important, joyful thing
happening to a very important person. Giving awards is
certainly not the time for airing any criticisms. My
view is influenced by the fact that I, personally,
have had the experience of having awards I just
received denigrated, or the giver's competence
dismissed.
<p>
As far as the "err early or late" goes of course one
prefers to be "on time", and it really comes down to a
case by case basis, but I would prefer to "err early."
