Touchscreen Voting Interface Design for Persons with Disabilities: Insights from Usability Evaluation of Mobile Voting Prototype

• Published in: Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting 2016-09, Vol.60 (1), p.780-784
• Main Authors: Ismirle, Jennifer, O’Bara, Ian, Swierenga, Sarah J., Jackson, James E.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2169-5067; 1071-1813; 2169-5067
• DOI: 10.1177/1541931213601179

Using specifications gathered from previous research focused on mobile and/or accessible design, our research team designed and created a mobile voting user interface prototype for individuals with and without disabilities. Thirty-two participants, including individuals who have dexterity limitations, dyslexia, low vision, and those with no disabilities, evaluated the usability of our mobile voting prototype. Our study generally confirmed previous research, and we discovered further considerations for a universal mobile voting interface design. The majority of participants had a positive reaction and experience while voting using our prototype, and indicated they would use it in an election if it were available. Based on our results, recommendations are provided to inform user interface designers, election officials, voting system manufacturers, and the general public on the specific needs of different user groups and design considerations for a universal mobile voting interface.