Tim,
Evaluations by superiors, peers, and direct reports indicated that I was thought of as a fair "boss" who understood the mission, set reasonable standards, and expected everyone to pull their weight. I wasn't privy to the raw data, but I suspect that the low end of the range came from those who had greater concern for their own agenda than that of the organization. But thanks for trying to make it personal.
I don't know where you play, but in north Texas, golf is most always stroke play. The TGA and USGA put strict time constraints on its players. No such guidance is provided for daily play and a morning four hour 4ball round is normally considered average to fast, with the pace worsening as the day progresses. You can choose to believe otherwise, and hopefully that is not your experience where you play.
As to optimum playing conditions, that is well beyond our expectations whether we start at 8 in a 4ball or 9 in lesser numbers. Most things are not binary. It does take some work to balance the wants and needs of golfers and staff, but it can be done. Golf is a big world. It makes sense to find a place where you fit best.
Tony,
I noted noise restrictions and dangerous conditions earlier. Some courses have difficult topography and hazards that can be dangerous in the dark. I also remember seeing Elephant Hills in Zimbabwe many years ago and thinking that I wouldn't want to be on the course in twilight.
Let me ask you, while it would make it easier on you, would you recommend to your board that the lead groups should be 4balls? Your twosome playing in two hours early in the morning is probably adding close to $2k per month to revenues. Is that not significant enough to tolerate some inconvenience?