Fun is always the most important factor here I agree, and playing team mates regularly at events R1 got a bit old at times I'll admit.
I do get what Lee is saying tho- with teams getting larger (10+) at a 3 round event it may have some impact on results. Therefore open field ensures completely Random pairings, and as level an event as possible.
I do get the Scottish lads point tho, after they drove from Stirling to Cambs and back in a day to make an event.
Lee is potentially right in that if the top 4 players at a 3 round event all play for the same team, this may impact the event.
I see where Closseau (who literally has tried everything pairing wise, so I would count an authority on it!) and and Ben are coming from. Tournaments need to be fun, enjoyable, and meeting new people is great. I also find myself playing the same people at many events I go to, regardless of formats. Therefore the key question for me, is there an imbalance that might need looking at?
As ever I think this has so be TO disgression, but a Discussion is important here too.
My 2 cents.