Extended Usability Versus Accessibility in Voting Systems
By Vanderheiden, Gregg; Kelso, David; Krueger, Matthew; RESNA 27th International Annual Conference 2004: Technology & Disability: Research, Design, Practice, & Policy,Publication Date: 2004
Study conducted to design a single voting station that is accessible to everyone, as people who are older or have visual, hearing, and physical disabilities often experience difficulty voting accurately. A prototype system was designed to allow individuals to either vote by using the touch screen or by using the buttons placed below it. A zoom function was provided that could increase the text size to 30-point font for individuals who could not read the 14-point text on the display. The prototype was tested with older individuals at a senior center. The results demonstrated that although individuals were physically and visually able to vote, the visual complexity and complex instructions were a problem for them. The researchers then tried to identify aspects that could be retained in the system without creating added complexity. A “touch and read” feature was added so that individuals could touch any text on the touch screen and have it read out loud. The authors contend that the enhanced usability of the standard voting platform allowed the participants to vote more accurately. The addition of the voice confirmation to the standard visual confirmation, and a review of the vote at completion afforded the participants with the feedback necessary to vote with confidence.
Published by: Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) (Website:http://www.resna.org)
