[jschafer]

Is it possible to have tables compare scores of tables with players of similar 'skill level'? If this sort of thing could be implemented into the software it would be quite nice to have. Currently simply getting high card points and bidding very normal game contracts will give you at least 3 IMPs on average, more for slams. It is a little annoying that you keep losing IMPs when you don't get hcps, despite bidding normally and playing good bridge on defence. It seems a little silly that when you are at a strong table and your opponents bid 3 "easy" slams, you're down 30 IMPs on simple boards. On the other hand if you are at a weaker table and you find a slam that may seem a little 'difficult' to find, it would be more satisfying to get IMPs for it.

Besides making the scoring a bit easier on the nerves, it might also result in people displaying more accurate skill levels on their profiles. If you currently have "Expert" on your profile and keep getting negative IMPs, it might help you reconsider to "Advanced" so that your averages stay closer to 0.

[mgoetze]

I think the self-ratings are way too messed up for this to work.

Try playing MPs, those totally devoid of bridge ability tend to avoid it.