Implications of graphics on usability and accessibility for the voter

Abstract

This paper explores the impact of graphics on the usability and accessibility of voting systems. Graphical elements, as part of voting systems, include both photographs and party logos that indicate specific candidates or political parties, informational icons such as arrows and alert symbols, and animations or other video. After an overview of the history of graphics on ballots, usability and accessibility issues concerning graphics are discussed in detail. The question of whether certain types of graphics would help people with cognitive disabilities vote is then considered in light of research and best practices for usability and accessibility. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.