Understanding the Borda Count Method

What is the Borda Count?

The Borda Count is a voting system used for ranked-choice competitions where the outcome depends not only on who gets the most first-place votes but also on how competitors are ranked overall across all ballots.   It's used in diverse areas like sports awards, political elections, and any contest where a group needs to select the most broadly preferred option.

How does it work?

1. Ranking: Each judge ranks the competitors in order of preference, from their favorite (#1) to their least favorite.
2. Points: Points are assigned based on the rankings:
   • Standard Borda Count: The higher the ranking, the more points.  For example, with 5 competitors, 1st place might get 5 points, 2nd place gets 4 points, and so on.
   • Inverted Borda Count: The lower the ranking, the fewer points (1st place = 1 point, etc.). Useful when lower scores are better, like judging errors.
3. Tally: Each competitor's points from all judges are totaled.
4. Winner:
   • Standard Borda: The competitor with the highest point total wins.
   • Inverted Borda: The competitor with the lowest point total wins.

Why use Borda Count?

• Considers overall preference: Borda Count favors well-liked "compromise" options rather than those that are polarizing (loved by a few, hated by many).
• Flexibility: The standard or inverted scoring formats adapt to different competition goals.
• Simple to understand: The ranking and point system are easy for judges and the public to grasp.

Examples of Borda Count in action:

• Sports awards: Heisman Trophy in college football, some figure skating competitions.
• Product reviews: Ranking consumer items to find the one with broadest appeal.
• Group decision-making: Choosing a restaurant or movie that most people in a group will reasonably enjoy.

Important Note: Clearly communicate whether you're using the standard (highest points win) or inverted (lowest points win) Borda Count method to avoid confusion!