Re: running combat with the speed chart
I usually write the speed chart down on the mat. A smart player will figure out the speed of their opponent anyway and this way allows people to plan ahead. The GM can use what we called a time dilater (a 4 sided die) pointed at the characters phase it is and call them off as they come to them.
So, players do play quite a role on how fast a combat will run. The GM needs to get people moving and the only slow down should be roleplaying and quips.