Usability and Accessibility Evaluation of the Upcoming Norwegian E-Vote Solution

During preparations for a partly electronic solution (called e-Vote/e-Valg) for the municipality elections in 2011, Norwegian authorities have a strong focus on universal design. As a consequence, the usability and accessibility (UA) of all prototypes had to be evaluated. Our technical tests regarding UA standard compliance, as well as personas and user tests reveal that ― despite a fair effort by the prototype providers ― many, rather basic universal design principles are either not fully understood or not prioritized for implementation by the solution providers. However, despite the technical implications, users in general show a positive attitude towards e-elections. A final e-voting solution with a high degree of UA is likely to strengthen democratic principles and lead to a higher participation of the population than currently experienced.