Open and Transparent

PenVote is committed to providing a open and transparent voting system from end to end. The R & D group is researching and testing new open source software platforms to remove the “black” from the black box. PenVote will respect the IPR of all sources and comply with all International laws to provide the most open voting system in the world.

                  

Digital paper consists of paper that contains thousands of tiny dots.  Those dots are then read by a digital pen (Logitech makes one for about $125). The pen writes in ink and also knows where it is on the paper. The pen contains a small sensor that records the locations; think of it as GPS for paper.

After writing on the paper, the digital pen is placed into a cradle and the data is downloaded to an application. For example, your handwriting can be converted to text and the text placed in a Microsoft Word document. You can also check off a box and the information you have written will create an email or a to-do list.  For voting, the pen knows if a circle or box has been checked in or filled in, much like optical scan. After the pen is docked a screen appears showing how the marks were interpreted.  Click Here to see sample. However, it is possible to show an image of the ballot on a computer screen, and even enlarge it to determine voter intent!!! Click to see the ballot image from the above results (note, resolution has been reduced for easy loading).  Voting with a Digital Pen is not a form of DRE and don't be confused by those who make such claims.  It is a paper-based voting system first and foremost.

The use of Digital Paper in elections is an idea whose time has come.  Think of the benefits:

1. Digital Paper is very low cost compared to OpScan paper (regular paper can be used).
2. You can print ballots internally at your own office (read: Ballot on Demand).
3. Paper doesn't have to be stored in environmentally protected areas (humidity, etc. are not factors).
4. The voter is provided with a natural and familiar interface-- ink on a page!
5. The paper ballot is retained for hand counting in re-counts and for other audits.
6. Each voting station contains a pen and cradle; so votes are "recorded" in the 'booth'.
7. You can use your old punch card booths-- no need for expensive DREs (except the disabled voters).
8. No need for an expensive precinct optical scanner.
9. Can be used in early voting states, or in-house absentee voting.
10. Easy integration with vendors who already have ballot creation software/end-of-night tabulation systems and election night website output.

And unlike Optical Scan, we show the voter how their marks were read by the system before they cast their vote!!

See a comparison between Digital Pen Voting and Optical Scan unlike Optical Scan, we can also accommodate full ballot face printing (New Yorkers!! Pay attention!), along with ballot booklet designs too!!!