Computer kiosks are another method an election management body (EMB) can use to reach voters. Computer kiosks are typically video display screens placed in public locations such as shopping centres, government information centres or tourist facilities. Any member of the public can use a publicly displayed computer kiosk.
Users can access information and services through a computer kiosk by touching indicated 'hot spots' on the display screen (called a touch-screen) or by touching buttons on a key pad. Computer kiosk displays generally function in a similar manner to an interactive multi-media web site. They can include recorded audio, text, still pictures, moving video and animation.
Computer kiosks can deliver a vast amount of information, in much the same way as an internet web site, although they are usually not connect to the internet. Computer kiosks provided by government agencies often include information related to many different areas of government, of which the electoral process may be one. This helps to spread the considerable set up and maintenance costs involved in computer kiosks. However, it would also be feasible to have a computer kiosk dedicated to the electoral process only.
By including a key pad with a computer kiosk, they can also be used for interactive services, such as completing forms 'on line' or paying bills or fines using credit card numbers. They can also be used for checking whether information kept on individuals (such as the electoral register) is up to date.
