In a landmark decision, the U.S. Supreme Court in 2018 ruled that public labor unions could not compel nonmembers from paying agency fees.  

The goal of any voting association is to not only increase turnout year after year but to generate consistent engagement among members.

Online elections are the most affordable method of voting, making it the most attractive option for unions across the United States. However, federal regulations remain vague on the matter, leaving open the question of whether or not online voting meets the correct legal standard.

Elections are often the culmination of extensive preparations and months of hard work to ensure voters have only a few steps to follow once voting commences. 

Associations hold annual elections to decide key positions and matters that are important to members. While selecting a voting method is of utmost importance, it’s also crucial that associations provide members with a seamless election experience. Beyond upholding democratizing ideals, elections help instill trust in a voter’s institution and the greater community it serves. 

A quarter of the United States population lives in a community association, which includes homeowners associations (HOAs), condominium communities and housing cooperatives, according to a report released last year by the Foundation for Community Association Research.

Running a national association election electronically might sound difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. Many national associations turn to online voting, which can be a more cost-effective option as opposed to other methods, while still supplying security within your member-based organization election. 

For member-based organizations with consistently low voter turnout, a well-conceived promotional strategy is an answer to more engagement. Not only do promotion tactics increase voter participation, but they also boost transparency. It ensures all members are aware of the election process, how they can run for office, who the candidates are, and the date of the contest. 

Technology has evolved at such a rate over the last decade that it’s difficult to imagine reverting back to old practices. 

Running an election with multiple voting methods can seem overwhelming. However, implementing various forms of voting can increase turnout and satisfaction because members can choose the option best for them, whether it’s traditional paper ballots or voting online.