First, amazing job by Jim, Alex, and all the participants. I can't imagine the number of man hours contained in this contest from all participants and contest hosts. As I was going through them all, I wondered what factors, like computer skills and design style, would play a role. Here are my thoughts from a relative newbie and first time voter...
Questions and comments:
I see in Alex's post he noted 34 ballots. I was told I was ballot 49. Did some get lost in the mix, or does that reflect the fact that some entrants were assigned ballot numbers but ultimately did not vote? Just curious.
Also, I went back and looked at all my votes that made the finals and they had visible topo lines. I do think certain things played larger roles for some people than others. For example, the fly bys really made a difference to me in determining blind shots, perspectives on approaches, etc. I think the computer heavy ones showed up a lot better on the flybys, which add in the contour since it was underlying the map but may not come through on the routing. Maybe I shouldn't have considered that since it wasn't part of the original project, but it helped me interpret the topo lines better and understand the contours with greater specificity.
As noted above, I really liked 25 too, but its lack of green definition ultimately swayed me against choosing it. It didn't feel finished to me. Same with 5. But that doesn't mean they aren't great. I just felt I had to fill in the details in a way I didn't with others. With so many great entrants, it was hard not to go with others.
My favorite format was very light shading to define fairways, greens, etc. with visible topo lines i the background, ala 13, 20, 21, and 8, etc. They had the perfect combination for me.
What factors weighed in on your consideration?