Designing the future of voting for the nation of Populus using blockchain technology.
Leveraging blockchain technology, the Selection system provides more flexibility and security in voting than ever before. Users can choose to vote mobilly, in person or a hybrid of both. The in-person experience allows for all users to vote comfortably and securely. Our system allows for post-election information for the user and the nation of Populus alike.
Voting needs an upgrade. Blockchain technology will innovate all aspects of the voting experience for all users - however they chose to vote.
The Selection system seeks to provide citizens with multiple channels of engagement, with consideration for digital voting remotely, while retaining an in-person alternative. All votes are immediately secured in a blockchain network, ensuring every ballot is permanent and immutable.
With a majority of citizens first engaging with the system through their mobile devices, the interface had to be carefully designed to allow all citizens equal opportunity to participate. Citizens are able to vote remotely, pre-vote with their device, or use their device to access the in-person interface.
VoteBox is the in person experience that allows all users the ability to have active participation in democracy. Parametric audio allows all users to have auditory feedback and information. The welcoming interior is balanced with a secure exterior, communicating the high security that blockchain technology provides.
The in person physical interface will feature an e-ink display which is easier on the eyes and battery. The UI is designed to have clear distinction between three areas: the ballot summary, the ballot detail and the voter guide. A manual control dial is offered for greater accessibility.
No other voting system offers the follow up aspect of the receipt. Users have a tangible and informative link to their votes, also helping users keep record of their vote. Users will also be able to review their ballots after submission.
The system’s use of blockchain technology is the cornerstone of it’s security - but how do we communicate this to citizens? Following the journey of the blockchain encrypted vote and how blockchain works is a vital communication tool for users.
Creating a digital solution for the election process required investigating current systems and uncovering the pain points and obstacles that users faced when interacting with them. We based our designs around resolving these issues to build trust.
Our interviewees and survey included voters of varying experience in elections as well as trust in current systems. We looked into their methods of information gathering and decision making and gauged their feelings toward a fully digital, remote voting experience.
The sketch ideation process focused on creating form factors that were visually interesting and functional.
We set out to ensure that every citizen of Populus was given an equal opportunity to participate in the election process. This meant designing both the physical and digital interfaces with adjustability and redundancy for both input and feedback.
Our product roadmap spans two election cycles and includes analytics which will be evaluated after the second cycle for properly addressing turnout needs. We will publish these results (not actual votes; remote vs. in-person submissions) to inform and involve the public in decisions regarding potential transition to full remote voting.