Internet web sites are excellent means of conveying large amounts of information to voters compared with traditional communication methods such as printed media, brochures, radio and television, which are able to carry only a limited amount of electoral information. In an ever growing number of countries where Internet facilities are widely available, election management bodies (EMBs) can greatly expand their information delivery capabilities by including references to their web sites in their paid advertising. Web sites can be structured to deliver as little or as much information as the user desires.
In addition to delivering information, electoral web sites can also be interactive. Users can complete transactions on-line, such as applying for voter registration or voting away of voting places. Forms can also be completed on-line, such as campaign finance disclosure returns, or they can be downloaded for printing on the user's printer and returned by mail (particularly where a user's hardcopy signature is required).
EMBs need to be careful that provision of information and services on their Internet web sites does not discriminate against or unfairly disadvantage clients who do not have Internet access. Wherever possible, alternative forms of access to information and services available on the Internet should be available by other means for clients without Internet access.
