Choosing and acquiring technology can be a major undertaking for an election management body (EMB). Before committing to a large technology purchase, an EMB may find it most effective to adopt a structured approach to selecting and purchasing technology.
Steps include:
- establishing whether there is a need for technology
- selecting cost-effective technological solutions
- evaluating local infrastructure and any limitations it might impose
- considering sustainability issues
- acquiring the chosen technology
- following correct purchasing processes
Generally, the first part of a project’s development is to establish the need for a new technology.
Technology has many benefits and many applications, and most EMBs make use of technology for various purposes to good effect. However, it is possible that personal interests and outside influence may prevail over the real need for a technology.
Once an EMB has decided to acquire new technology, the next step is to select the most cost-effective technological solutions available. Before making a commitment to its implementation, it is important to fully calculate all the likely costs and savings to determine whether the new technology is viable.
The readiness of the EMB and its clients to assimilate technology will also need to be determined.
Sustainability is another key consideration. Excluding special circumstances, a technology adopted for an upcoming election is supposed to continue to be useful in future elections.
