Online Voting vs Paper Ballots
Paper ballots have served boards well for decades. Many organizations are now moving to online voting for the same reasons they moved from paper checks to online banking: speed, accuracy, and a clear digital record.
Electronic voting requirements vary by jurisdiction and governing document. Confirm that online voting is permitted for your organization before switching.
Why boards are making the switch
Online voting offers practical advantages for governance that grow with your association.
Results in seconds, not days
Paper ballot counting takes hours or days. Online voting results are instant. The moment the vote closes, the tally is complete and the report is ready to download.
Higher member participation
Members vote from their phones in under a minute. No printing, no envelope, no mailbox. Many organizations see significantly higher turnout after switching to online voting.
Weighted tallying without math
Paper ballots with weighted entitlements require manual calculation. Upload your entitlements to VoteAlly and weighted results are calculated automatically the moment voting closes.
Cryptographic audit trail
Every voter receives a receipt code. The participation record and results report are immediately ready for your minute book. No ballot box to secure and return.
Live AGM support
Run binding motions during your virtual or in-person AGM without printing ballots. Members vote on their phones and results are visible to the chair in real time.
Ballot secrecy maintained
VoteAlly separates participation records from encrypted ballot choices. Administrators verify turnout without viewing individual responses in normal governance operations.
What stays the same with VoteAlly
- One vote per eligible member, enforced by the voter list you upload
- Ballot secrecy maintained in normal governance operations
- Formal documentation ready for your minute book immediately after the vote
- Weighted tallying based on your unit entitlements or share allocations
- A clear and verifiable record that each eligible voter had the opportunity to participate
Frequently asked questions
Is online voting legally valid where we operate?
In many jurisdictions, electronic voting may be permitted when your governing documents authorize it (or do not prohibit it) and the process meets applicable statutory requirements. Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with qualified legal counsel before switching.
Can online voting increase turnout?
Many organizations report higher participation after switching. Members vote from their phones in under a minute with no printing, mailing, or travel required.
How does VoteAlly handle members without email?
VoteAlly requires an email address for Magic Link delivery. If some members do not use email, your board may need a separate accommodation process outside VoteAlly based on your governing documents and legal advice.
How can I try VoteAlly before our next election?
Create a free account and run a test vote with up to 50 voters at no cost. Import your owner list, add your questions, and experience the full voter and admin workflow before committing.
Try online voting before your next election
Run a secure, verifiable test vote with up to 50 voters at no cost. No credit card required.
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