Dynamic Prediction Map Description

1. It is an equal population area representation. Each seat is drawn to the same size, which is approximately equivalent to equal area for equal population. Differences to normal maps include the northern part of Scotland which is much smaller than usual, and the metropolitan areas which are much larger. These are shown as separate inserts to reduce the distortion of the map.

   It is useful to have the map is this style because it avoids the natural over-representation of rural seats in standard maps.

2. Each seat is shown individually, and the strength of its colour indicates the predicted majority. Very marginal seats have a pale colour, and seats with a majority of 40% or above are given the brightest colour. You can hover the cursor over any seat to see its name.

   This lets you see at a glance where the strong and weak areas are for each party.

3. You can flip between the current prediction and the actual 2005 election results very easily by pressing the "Switch to.." button. This lets you see the dynamics of the changing electoral geography. You can also identify seats which are likely to change hands or to become more/less marginal.

Production Credits

Very useful suggestions and comments have also come from Lorne Whiteway and others as to how the map can be presented in the most useful way, as well as practical ideas on how to implement it.

Grateful thanks are due to all those who have contributed.