äänestyslaitteeseen

An äänestyslaite, or voting machine, is a device used to cast and often tabulate votes in an election. These machines can range from simple mechanical levers to complex electronic systems. The primary goal of using voting machines is to streamline the voting process, reduce errors, and increase the efficiency of vote counting.

Different types of voting machines exist. Mechanical lever machines, historically common, require voters to pull levers corresponding to their chosen candidates. Electronic voting machines (EVMs) are more prevalent today. These can be direct-recording electronic (DRE) machines, where voters make selections on a touch screen or by pressing buttons, and the vote is electronically stored. Another type is the optical scan machine, where voters mark their choices on a paper ballot, which is then scanned by the machine to record the vote. Some systems also incorporate paper audit trails, either as a voter-verifiable paper receipt or as the primary method of recording the vote.

The implementation of voting machines aims to enhance election integrity and accessibility. However, concerns regarding security, accuracy, and transparency have also been raised, leading to ongoing debates about the best practices for their design, deployment, and auditing. Regulations and standards vary significantly across different jurisdictions to address these concerns.