IfElse alternative

bad.py

derp = raw_input()

if derp == 'a':
    pass
elif derp == 'b':
    pass
elif derp == 'c':
    pass
else:
    print "Invalid Choice"

# ^^^epic grossness^^^

good.py

# Function definitions

def a_function():
    """Function for choice a"""
    pass

def b_function():
    """Function for choice b"""
    pass

def c_function():
    """Function for choice c"""
    pass

# Map choices to functions.

choices = {'a':  a_function,
           'b':  b_function,
           'c':  c_function}

# Poll for selection.

print "Select something... ",                                   
user_selection = raw_input()

# Cycle through choices.
for choice in choices.keys():
    # Check if the current selection is what the user wants.
    if choice = user_selection:
        # Execute the associated function.
        choices[choice]()