Disparity Maps

Two basic facts are portrayed on each map. First, the map shows disparity—which parts of the city are more different than others. For each indicator, we calculate a local value and then compare it to the citywide average. Areas shaded darker blue are least like the citywide average, while areas shaded lighter blue are more like the average. Second, the red and green lines make this information more actionable by indicating whether areas are more different because they are doing well, or more different because they are doing poorly.

Areas outlined in red represent places that are unlike the average, but in a bad way (low SAT scores or a high crime rate, for instance). Areas outlined in green represent places that are unlike the average, but in a good way (high SAT scores or a low crime rate).

Change Maps

These maps show, for each indicator, where things improved from year to year (higher SAT scores or a lower crime rate, for instance), and where they worsened (lower SAT scores or a higher crime rate). Red indicates a worsening, and green indicates an improvement In some instances, these maps may not seem to match the blue maps. For example, between the 2006 Wholeness Index and the 2007 Wholeness Index, voter turnout increased in South Dallas, indicated by green on the Change in Value map. At the same time, South Dallas moved from light blue (average) to dark blue (more different) on the wholeness map. This is because voter turnout in other parts of town increased more than in South Dallas. Therefore, South Dallas experienced a positive change in value for voter turnout, but, relative to other parts of town, its degree of difference worsened.