Organizations should prioritize security, data privacy, and accessibility when selecting a cloud-based voting software. With the right mix of features, voters can feel confident they are casting their votes securely and anonymously.
Voting online is becoming common for organizations and businesses of all types, thanks to the trend of remote work. Platforms like ElectionBuddy provide voting software to enterprises of all sizes that is secure and easy-to-use. When examining different types of voting software, here are a few key considerations:
When evaluating any software that stores personal information, security takes priority over everything else. To keep out hackers and prevent voting manipulation, companies like ElectionBuddy use the latest in secure technologies.
Encrypting data is one of many ways to secure online ballots. However, with the right passwords, malicious actors can still gain access to systems. To prevent this, many secure organizations‒such as banks and healthcare providers‒require more than a password.
This is known as ‘two-factor authentication.’ After a successful login with a password, users must verify their identity via a second method. It can be a text message, email, or phone call. Only those who pass both checks can access the system.
Another way to have a secure online voting system in the cloud is by keeping data separated. Many companies have multiple copies of their data isolated. If one section is breached, other sections cannot be accessed. The second copy exists in case the first one is destroyed.
Multiple copies also verify that nothing’s been changed. Any changes made by hackers can be identified once security professionals have access to the backed-up data.
To remain free of interference, voting must be confidential. Look for platforms that provide anonymous voting. Anonymous voting guarantees that votes can never be traced back to an individual voter. Without anonymity, voters might fear repercussions if they vote against the status quo on a controversial issue.
To accomplish anonymity voters are given unique IDs that allow them access to the system. Once authenticated, the voting is handled separately so the two cannot be tied together. When ballot submissions have ended, audits can be performed to ensure that unique IDs are never used twice. Additionally, security protocols for cloud voting, like anonymous logs, allow auditors to find irregularities in vote counts.
With so much focus on security, some software developers forget that everyday people must be able to use these systems. After a user is verified, the software should have an easy-to-understand interface. Familiar features like buttons and menus should be simplified and intuitive.
When a vote is cast, users should receive multiple confirmations. They can be displayed immediately after the vote is submitted via email or with other methods so that voters know they are complete. These act as a receipt for the voter in case of any future issues.
If something goes wrong, an expert needs to be available to assist. Look for companies that offer ongoing support for both organizations and voters so problems can be identified and resolved promptly. ElectionBuddy provides customers with dedicated support staff that can provide support at a moment's notice.
Furthermore, ElectionBuddy has voting professionals available who can consult with businesses and organizations to plan upcoming votes. They’ll make sure votes are set up properly and comply with any regulations regarding a particular state or category of enterprise. With the right software and support in place, online voting can be secure, confidential, and easy to use!