Wow, this is really cool:
Penvote. We use digital pens in combination with cell phones (via Bluetooth) to send voter registration directly in the field to the board of election's database program. www.penvote.com
This method avoids a whole suite of problems/logistics/expenses that we ran into with our txtVoter initiative in 2004-2006 - namely setting up an account at a mail house, preprinting reg forms, and postage. Although I'm not sure how the Registrars are going to accept this method - given that they're a wiley bunch inclined to do it like they've always done it - namely by accepting paper sigs only. Also, there's the problem of getting pens to the field...
The paper forms still have to make their way (by law) back to the election office. The handwriting is converted and placed directly into the election office database system. The image of the form is also available and can be attached to the voter record. This eliminates both the manual entry of forms as well as the scanning of forms. A great time saver. Once election offices understand this, they will be excited about. At least that is how we at PenVote feel about it.
Posted by: C Wilson | February 03, 2009 at 04:44 PM
Oh, you haven't sold in to any registrars yet? Ahhh, you've got a big mountain to climb. Let the less of Ken Blackwell in Ohio be a lesson. (i almost wrote "lesion", which may be more appropriate): http://www.dailykos.com/story/2004/9/27/112229/106
And there are thousands of registrars, each running their own fiefdoms... it's Sisyphysian.
Posted by: ben | February 03, 2009 at 05:55 PM