Alternative rules for determining initiative order in conflict.
Order by Alertness
This is the default rule; highest Alertness goes first, then second highest, etc.
Roll Alertness
Instead of simply using Alertness order, roll it to add some randomness and spice to the order, enable the use of aspects so characters can have some control, and add more oomph to the initiative stunts. Also, a character with high defense will spread their spin around in different combats.
Order by Active Skill
The GM calls out ladder-levels in descending order. Any character can use a skill at that ladder level or better. Any actions are the same skill level happen simultaneously. Thus, a high-Academics professor can make declarations early in the initiative order. Note that this essentially provides the effects of Lightning Hands for free (Guns as Alertness for Initiative). It does make it easy for initiative to change in interesting ways every Exchange.