UTFP FAQ

Q: What is UTFP?
A: The United Temporal Federations of Planets is an online, forum-based simulation set in the 31^st century.  We got our start with Star Trek but have since evolved to include elements of Stargate, Star Wars and material that is original to us.

Q: If UTFP is set in the 31st century, then why are Starbase Zeta and the NX-03 Challenger set in earlier eras?
A: Columbia Division joined UTFP through a merger several years ago.  To make things easier for everyone it was decided not to advance CF to the 31^st century, but rather to have them tell the history of the very early founding days of the UTFP.

Q: How do I join?
A: To join, please go through the applications process HERE:

Q: How do I write to the story?
A: The story is a series of posts. Posts are what we call the individual additions to the story that each player sends. Each post can be considered as a mini-chapter in the story that together the simulation is creating. Post can be written in one of two ways, script or story format, the choice is yours. Players write posts spotlighting their character's role in the simulation's mission, and often will work with other players to develop a strong interaction between several characters on a simulation.

Q: Who can play?
A: Anyone who is interested and can read and write in English can join the UTFP. All new players are required to apply through the UTFP Education Division, however, and must complete the basic simming 101 training in RPG principles and etiquette. Sorry, but there are NO Exceptions...

Q: How do I leave?
A: Simply send an e-mail to the First Officer or Commander of your simm.  If you are part of the Leadership, then send your email to the UTFP Senate.

Q: I will be unable to take part for a short time, what can I do?
A: As stated in the Constitution, if you will be unable to take part in the simm for a while then please inform your superior officer. You will be placed on leave until you are able to get back. Please do not stay on leave for long periods of time unless you have no other choice due to life issues.  If you do not inform anyone of your departure or need for time off, you could be considered AWOL and loose your position as we will not know what happened to you.

Q: What is the chain of command I go through if I have a problem?
A: If you have a problem, start with your sim's First Officer or Lieutenant Governor. If your XO cannot help you, then go to your Commanding Officer or Colonial Governor. If they cannot help you, then you will be referred up the line until the problem can be solved.

Q: This is merely a game, so why DO I have to tell anyone?
A: It is good manners and common courtesy to let others you interact with that you will not be around.

Q: Do I need a biography for my character?
A: Yes, all members are required to have profiles for their characters. A character profile allows your fellow players to learn more about your character and is your chance to create a history for your character. Did they have a happy childhood? Do they have any brothers or sisters, etc.? Examples of bios can be found at each simulations Personnel section as well as in the Education Division.

Q: If I change my email address, do I have to tell anyone?
A: Yes. It is EXTREMELY important that you update your email.  This is so the UTFP staff can notify you of important information when needed. In addition, if you are subscribed to a forum, you will no longer receive notifications until you update your email. 

Q: I have graduated from the Education Division recently, but my name is still not on the roster.  What should I do?
A: Please be patient. It is quite possible your CO has not had the chance to update the roster yet.  If you feel it has been a very long time, then just drop them an email or Private Message.

Q: How do I graduate from the Education Division?
A: To graduate you need to successfully complete simming 101 with a grade point average of 70 or higher.

Q: Can I transfer to another ship or base?
A: Yes. First contact the Captain of the ship you wish to transfer to in order to check if the position you want is open and to make sure the Captain agrees to your assignment on their ship. Secondly, you need to inform your current Captain that you are going to transfer.

Q: Can I transfer to another division?
A: Yes.  Same as above, except the Division Commander must approve the request.

Q: How do I become a First Officer?
A: First Officers are appointed and promoted by the Commanding Officer of the ship, base or colony.

Q: How do I become a Commanding Officer or Colonial Governor?
A: To become a Commanding Officer or Colonial Governor you MUST go through the Command College.  See requirements

Q: How can I be promoted?
A: All promotions are earned through merit.  Promotions are never handed out.  The best way to be promoted is to get involved.  Involvement comes in many forms: Posting quantity and quality, taking more courses and earning skills, taking an active part in discussions, recruitment, etc.

Q: Do I have to post everyday?
A: No. According to our constitution, to stay active you must post once a week unless you have made other arangements with your CO. However, as stated above, the more you get involved, the more you will be promoted and that includes posting.

Q: Do I have to lots of knowledge about the shows you guys use?
A: Not neccesarily. The only knowledge you will really need is a general knowledge of science fiction. You may be encouraged to learn more about your genre, though, if you are not familiar with it.

Q: What are skills?
A: Here in the United Temporal Federation of Planets we have the ability to add skills to our character- just as we in real life grow and learn new things and thus acquire new skills.  See the skills page for more information.

Q: My Captain and or my First Officer are inactive what should I do?
A: If both the CO and FO are inactive, then contact your Division Commander immediately.

Q: What is JAG? 
A: JAG stands for Judge Advocate General. It is the justice department of the site, responsible for mediating disputes between UTFP members and for reviewing, and in some cases giving interpretations of, the site's rules.

Q: What are reports and why are they needed?
A: Monthly reports are structured two-way communication between members and the staff.  Reports are never meant to be a chore, but rather a means for you to express your concerns up the Chain of Command.  It is also a way for you to get help in developing your character and department as Character and Department development is strongly emphasized in UTFP.

Q: What are Commendations, and how do I get one? 
A: Commendations are medals awarded to officers who have done something exceptional for the organization. This can be anything from good simming to working hard behind the scenes. Refer to the commendations page for a full list of commendations and what requirements must be met for each award at: Commendations. 

Q: I have an idea for a mission, but I am not a Commanding Officer. What can I do?
A: Inform your First Officer or Commanding Officer of the idea. If they like it, they may run with the idea. Since they are your superior officer, they should be your point of first contact when it comes to these matters. Your C.O. may also pass your idea on to the Division Commanders.

Q: How can I contact a Senator?
A: The best way to contact a Senator is to send them a private message.

Q: My simm wants to join UTFP, what should I do?
A: Contact karae@utfp.org

Q: I have a question that is not covered in this FAQ's page. What should I do?
A  You can post your question on the appropriate forum, or contact one of the Senators.