Recommendations for Voting System Interoperability

Published

August 1, 2022

Author(s)

John Dziurłaj, Benjamin Long

Abstract

There is currently no common data format for ballot styles and associated use-cases. This white paper investigates this and other potential interoperability gaps within the voting system in a holistic manner, by considering previous voting interoperability work and how it fits within thirteen key functions of a voting system. Gap analysis is performed by identifying data flows that cross functions, functions that might cross component boundaries and thus may significantly benefit from common data interfaces. Each data flow identified as significant for interoperability is treated in detail, describing the potential benefits of supporting interoperable interfaces in voting system components and a roadmap to their development. The gap analysis shows lack of support for data flows that involve ballot data, particularly ballot styles. These gaps preclude effective componentization of voting system devices such as ballot marking devices, election management systems and scanners. Identified solutions include standardization of ballot components, such as barcodes, and development of a ballot styles common data format.

Citation

Grant/Contract Reports (NISTGCR) - NIST GCR 22-034

Report Number

NIST GCR 22-034

NIST Pub Series

Grant/Contract Reports (NISTGCR)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

Download Paper

Local Download

Keywords

Ballot printing systems, Ballot scanners, Common data format, Electronic poll books, Election technology, Interoperability, Voting systems.

Citation

Dziurłaj, J. and Long, B. (2022), Recommendations for Voting System Interoperability, Grant/Contract Reports (NISTGCR), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=935312 (Accessed April 27, 2024)