Back before IJS, I once 'judged' a synchro competition (intermediate level) - I went online, compared scores from different regionals, looked back at past competitions, etc. As I sat in the stands as a spectator, I watched the girls skate, taking notes. Then I used all the info I had gathered, and placed the teams in two ways - one according to how I thought they skated, and then one based also on past performances and reputation. Then I looked at the posted scores. My independent list was off by 7-8 places. My list that added in past placements and reputation was off by 2.
I've yet to have the time to do that with PCS scores this year, maybe next - I really want to see how much is based on rep, and how much is based on skill.