aMap Overview

Complex arguments are constantly taking place on all kinds of issues, from the identity of the next England boss to climate change.

aMap makes it easy for people to engage with and participate in these complex arguments.  Short for 'argument map', aMap was developed by Delib in partnership with the New Economics Foundation and the London School of Economics.

How it works

aMap enables people to engage with, understand and formulate their own opinion on an issue in under 10 minutes.

• Maps arguments visually
• Aims to be as intuitive and simple as the London Tube Map
• Particularly useful for 'difficult issues'
• Effective engagement tool for hard-to-reach groups such as time-short people and people of lower education levels

There are many proven benefits in presenting arguments visually:

• 'Complex thinking operations often require imagery that is abstract and pattern-like' (Chen)
  
• Argument maps 'triple absolute gains made by other methods' (Twardy)

Essentially, it's about making arguments more accessible and encouraging deliberation, debate and participation.

The details

Physical maps

Each map is normally A3 in size and is collapsible to a pocket sized map.

Virtual maps

The aMap online argument tool allows people create their own personlised debate and share with friends. The online version is open to further development - with the addition of future functionality

aMap development process

The result of our research work is a four stage process that enables our team to turn any issue debate in to an argument map.

The development process takes around 4 - 6 weeks, and is undertaken as a collaboration between the New Economics Foundation, Delib and any commissioning body.

Encouraging debate

aMap is best used as part of a wider consultation, engagement or debate process.