Voting Systems

Optical Mark-Sense Ballots

First Used 1962, Kern City, California

By 2000, 27% use in United States

 

Advantages over Lever Machines

    Auditable -- marked paper ballot records vote

    No mechanisms needed at precinct

    Fast computerized tabulation at county office

    Optional instant computerized tabulation at precinct

    Ideal for postal voting

    Perceived to be "state of the art" technology

 

Disadvantages

    Need to interpret marginal marks
        smudged erasures
        nonstandard markings

    Handicapped accessibility not obvious
        but this problem can be solved