It is simplistic to think of the three models of EMBs as having distinct behaviours. EMB behaviour depends not only on type but also on the electoral framework, political and social expectations, and the cultural environment within which each EMB exists.

Influences include the political commitment to allow the EMB to act freely and impartially, the range of powers and functions given to an EMB, the qualifications of members or staff for appointment and their terms of office, the way in which members and/or staff are selected and appointed, the oversight and accountability framework, and whether the EMB has a legal personality and is thus able to sue and be sued. For example, an Independent Model EMB comprising representatives of competing political parties and an Independent Model EMB comprising non-aligned academics, or others free of political association, both follow the ‘Independent Model’ but are likely to operate differently. Similarly, a Governmental Model EMB whose sponsoring department controls local electoral management offices is likely to behave differently from one that is dependent on numerous local authorities to implement electoral activities.