Introducing VIP Version 2.0

Even though 2008 was extremely sucessful, we're always looking for new ways to improve. To that end, we've proposed some changes in VIP's format, nearly all of which are based on your suggestions. You can view the new format here. Comments are extremely welcome by emailing me or joining one of the three groups listed on this page.

Major changes include:

• Streamlining street segments into one object. This change should dramatically reduce the length of feeds.

• Recasting Tabulation Areas as Electoral Districts and having precincts link to Electoral Districts rather than the other way around. This change helps states include candidate information.

• Common address types

• Information on registration deadlines, absentee ballot request deadlines, and Election Day registration.

Overall, if you produced a feed in 2008, your code will need some tweaking, but not too much. And the resulting file will be smaller.