The SiteBook: Improving Voter Experience & Election Security

About the Program

Category: Information Technology (Best in Category)

Year: 2018

The 2016 election cycle highlighted a disconnect between the administration of elections and the voter experience. This was evident in two capacities: the struggle to manage long lines at the polls and helping voters who went to the wrong precinct. Additionally, internal audits showed that there were some discrepancies between the number of ballots cast and voters checked in. These experiences provided a catalyst for a full review of the current system, with a renewed focus on voter experience and ballot security. Maricopa County introduced the SiteBook during the November 2017 elections. The technology creates a more efficient and intuitive check-in process at early voting and Election Day voting locations. The system provides better customer service as a voter’s registration address can be immediately updated to ensure the correct ballot is always given to the voter. It directly ties into the voter registration system using proprietary software and a secured connection for improved security. By ensuring a voter’s check-in is immediately recorded, it prevents the possibility of double voting, even if the voter has been mailed an early ballot. The SiteBook system has successfully helped shorten lines, decrease provisional ballots and improve the overall voter experience while increasing security and accountability.