How bad an error

Conforming (in this context) simply means 'congruent'. Do the words of the description and the map represent the same locations on the ground? In the case of flipped bearings I would say they do.

The map provides context that words alone cannot convey. If you are calculating a closure, it would be silly to ignore what you see and intentionally run backwards for one or more courses. You inherently know which way you are going and flip the bearings without thinking about it.

On the flip side, some dipstick will probably call you when 'your map doesn't close'. The cost of a new mylar weighed against talking to an idiot (with the power to halt your project) is negligible.?ÿ

Hope that helps, Tom