I did the study on my own
The study has been going on for more then 4 years and what I have determend
It is better to be 3 years ahead of wood supply and the fresh wood can sit in the weather un covered.
The 2nd year wood should be covered on the top only
The 3rd year wood should be placed in a wood shelter well covered out of the rain and snow.
If you cut and burn the same year the wood should be cut into 14-18 inch lengths, no wider then 6” at the widest point and stacked loosely off the ground with a cover on the top only when it rains and if you live in a windy area covering the top and sides is recommended when it rains and uncover on clear days
So
The way I season wood is
1st year it sits in a pile in the weather
2nd year I stack and cover on the top
3rd year I cover in a woodshed and burn