Striking System

RetroRealms Staff Striking Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of the 3-strike policy is to maintain a professional and positive environment for both staff and players. This policy provides staff with an opportunity to improve while also ensuring that the server operates smoothly. It aims to provide fairness and transparency in the process of addressing staff misconduct or failure to meet server expectations.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all RetroRealms server staff members (e.g., moderators, administrators, and helpers) and covers actions or behaviour that violate server rules, staff code of conduct, or negatively impact the community.

3. Overview of the 3-Strike System

First Strike: A warning or minor consequence given for a first violation. Staff will be informed about the issue and given an opportunity to correct their behaviour.

Second Strike: If the staff member repeats the violation or commits another infraction, a second strike is issued along with a more serious consequence. The staff member may be temporarily suspended or have additional duties removed.

Third Strike: After a third violation, the staff member will face a final consequence, such as permanent removal from the staff team, demotion, or other appropriate disciplinary actions.

4. Types of Infractions Covered by the 3-Strike Policy

Failure to Follow Staff Code of Conduct: This includes actions like being disrespectful, unprofessional, or violating the server’s code of ethics.

Failure to Perform Duties: If a staff member consistently fails to perform their assigned duties or is unavailable without notice.

Insubordination or Disregard for Leadership: Ignoring instructions from higher-ranked staff or leadership.

Exploiting Staff Privileges: Misusing staff powers or privileges, such as abusing moderation tools, giving unfair treatment, or using admin commands for personal gain.

Poor Communication: Lack of communication with other staff members, leadership, or the player community, leading to confusion or a lack of support.

Negative Impact on the Community: Engaging in behaviour that harms the server’s reputation, including posting inappropriate content, engaging in drama, or showing favoritism.

5. Strike Issuance Process

Verbal Warning (First Strike): The first infraction will result in a verbal warning. The staff member will be informed about the issue, and a record will be kept of the incident. A plan for improvement or corrective actions may be discussed.

Example: A minor infraction such as being late for a shift or a first-time argument with a player.

Written Warning (Second Strike): If the issue occurs again or another infraction is committed, the staff member will receive a formal written warning. This strike will also include a temporary consequence, such as a suspension from duties for a specific period (e.g., a few days).

Example: Repeated tardiness or ignoring instructions from senior staff.

Final Action (Third Strike): A third infraction will result in a final consequence, which could be a permanent removal from the staff team or a demotion. The severity of the action will depend on the nature of the infractions and the context.

Example: Repeated rule-breaking, misuse of staff powers, or poor treatment of players.

6. Strike Expiry

Strike Expiration Period: Strikes will remain active for a period of [insert time period, e.g., 3 months, 6 months] from the date they are issued. After this period, the staff member’s record will be cleared of the strikes. However, if the staff member commits another infraction during this time, their previous strikes will still apply.

Example: If a staff member has been on good behaviour for a period of time and a strike has expired, they will not carry that strike over to future violations.

7. How Strikes are Issued

Reporting and Documentation: Strikes will only be issued based on documented incidents. Staff members should report infractions with clear evidence, such as screenshots, chat logs, or any relevant communication.

Investigation: Before issuing a strike, leadership or senior staff will conduct an investigation to ensure that the infraction is valid and that the staff member is given the chance to explain themselves.

Fairness and Transparency: The process for issuing a strike will be transparent, and staff will be informed of the reason for the strike and how they can avoid further issues in the future.

8. Appeals Process

Staff Member Appeal: If a staff member feels a strike was issued unfairly, they have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal should be submitted to leadership or a designated appeals committee for review.

The appeal should include any relevant evidence and an explanation as to why the strike should be removed or reduced.

Review of Appeal: The leadership or senior staff will review the appeal and make a final decision, which may result in the strike being removed, modified, or upheld.

9. Consequences for Repeated Violations

Immediate Removal from Staff: In cases where the behaviour is egregious or harmful to the community, the staff member may be removed from the team without going through all three strikes.

• Example: Misuse of admin powers, deliberate harassment, or actions that severely damage the server’s reputation.

10. Prevention and Staff Support

• Training and Support: To prevent strikes, staff will be regularly trained on the server’s rules, expectations, and best practices for communication and conflict resolution.

• Regular Check-ins: The leadership team will periodically check in with staff members to ensure they are managing their responsibilities well, receiving support, and adhering to the server’s values.

Final Notes

• The 3-strike policy aims to provide a fair and structured approach to staff accountability. It ensures that staff members have the opportunity to correct their actions while also holding them responsible for their behaviour. Clear communication, transparency, and support are key to making this system work effectively for both staff and the server community.