7 Considerations for Automated Mail-in Ballot Sorting

With the 2024 election around the corner, we wanted to share several considerations election officials should consider when automating their mail-in ballot sorting process. With more ballots being sent and returned through the mail, as well with drop boxes, Election Officials need to manage the growing volumes and adherence to changes in Election Laws.

1. High-Speed Sorting Automation:
   
   • By implementing an automated high-speed sorting solution, you can efficiently process large volumes of outbound or inbound vote-by-mail ballot packets with speed, accuracy, and security. The sorters are designed for this task by using standard 1D or 2D barcode (BCR) reading technology for accurate validation and sorting. In the case of processing return vote-by-mail packets which are returned from drop box locations, the new Relia-Vote 360 enhanced sorter software can efficiently reorient the ballot packets by eliminating this manual step.
2. Barcode Technology:
   
   • Adding a 1D or 2D barcode to the ballot, outgoing envelope, and return envelope ballot packet to ensure the correct ballot is sent to each voter and to automate the return tracking and sorting process. Typical barcodes will contain information about the ballot type, election district, precinct election ID, and voter ID. Additionally, USPS Intelligent Mail barcodes can be now be added to the outgoing and return envelope to enable tracking the ballot packet through the USPS to and from the voter.
     
     
3. Sorting Criteria:
   
   • Flexible sorting software logic can establish a sorting criterion based on geographic location, election district, or any other relevant parameters. This helps ensure both accurate and efficient distribution.
     
     
4. Automated Signature Verification:
   
   • Automated inbound integrated sorting systems can automate the process of signature verification comparing the voter signature image on the ballot packet to the voter signature on record. Powerful and highly accurate Auto Signature Verification (ASV) technology reduces the need for manual review resulting in fewer human errors, less manual labor and reduced processing times. 
     
     
5. Date and Time Stamp:
   
   • Automate the recording of when a ballot packet was received to help maintain the trust and reliability of the election process. Automated sorting systems with integrated date and time stamp feature offers additional layers of integrity.
     
     
6. Sorting Criteria:
   
   • Flexible sorting software logic can establish a sorting criterion based on geographic location, election district, or any other relevant parameters. This helps ensure both accurate and efficient distribution.
     
     
7. Quality Control Measures:
   
   • You might consider implementing quality control measures that identify and address any discrepancies or issues during the sorting process. This may include an automated validation step that requires a manual inspection of a mail-in ballot packet.