Originally Posted by python

Unfortunately, you are most likely correct.

It was encouraging to see the incremental move toward data analysis when the very basic hybrid list construction technique was introduced several mergers ago (actually re-introduced from long-forgotten mergers from the past), but we seem to be stuck there.

To move forward, the profession would have to:

1. unlink the integration process/lawyers connection as much as possible
2. focus on how integrated lists actually affect careers in the future vs. how we mechanically construct lists
2. actually want to be fair to each other

None of those requirements are likely to be realized due to entrenched ways of thinking/selfish interests.

But nothing will change or be improved if the current process is permitted to remain in place, unchallenged, as future merging groups go through it again and again. The tool is in place for those who wish to use it.