Civic design bibliography


Electronic voting machines versus traditional methods: improved preference, similar performance

Why the article is helpful

  • Computer-based voting (DRE) system versus traditional voting methods
  • Ballot user preferences and experiences
  • Ballot user worries

 

The authors evaluated computer-based voting (DRE) systems against traditional voting methods (paper ballots, punch cards, and lever machines). SUS survey of paper and e-voting methods found similar error rates but much higher SUS scores on e-voting machine between both novice and expert computer users. In addition to individual ballot preferences, survey responses also revealed that in previous voting experiences in real elections, 12% of participants had been unsure whether their vote was cast correctly or would be counted. A larger 26% had previously worried about figuring out how to use a ballot or voting technology to cast their vote. Lastly, participants were much more satisfied with their voting experience and usability on the DRE.

 

Links to article

 

Everett, S. P., Greene, K. K., Byrne, M. D., Wallach, D. S., Derr, K., Sandler, D., & Torous, T. (2008). Electronic voting machines versus traditional methods: Improved preference, similar performance. Paper presented at the CHI ’08 Proceedings of the   twenty-sixth annual SIGCHI conference on Human factors in computing systems. doi:10.1145/1357054.1357195