This is an interesting idea, Lyle. it would be easy enough to select a topic, discuss the various alternative terms and then to vote on them.
But I'm not sure that by voting on the definition of technical terms we would always come up with a result that would be acceptable to everyone. This forum is new, and it is already apparent that some members are experienced navigators whilst others have, as yet, only limited knowledge and joined because they are eager to learn. Theoretically, the poll could come up with an incorrect answer because it had been skewed by those insufficiently familiar with navigation techniques.
We have a ballot, then what is the next step? How are we going to influence those bodies, such as the British Mountaineering Council and its various training boards with their curricula and examinations? The military would take some convincing if the terms used in their manuals had to be revised. Also several books such as those by Langmuir and another by Long have achieved a certain status in the outdoor community, and now we have 'The Ultimate Navigation Manual!' They all use some different names to describe the same terms.
Here is an examp[le of the problems that we are likely to face. 'Magnetic declination' and 'magnetic variation', which are often treated as synonyms, seem to have at least four different meanings depending on the context in which they are used.
A scientist might use the term 'magnetic declination' to describe the projected path of the magnetic pole.
Walkers sometimes use both terms in three senses:
To describe everything that causes the compass needle to deviate from true north, (i.e. magnetic variation and also the influence of ferrous metals and electrical interference).
To describe the angle between magnetic and true north.
To describe the error caused by the influence of ferrous metals and electrical interference (also known as 'magnetic deviation'.
By all means let's have our discussions and at least draw up a list of terms and then, perhaps, consider publishing a glossary giving all the definitions with, if possible, a recommendation as to the most appropriate. This might interest the walking and climbing press.
This could run and run...
Hugh