About
Our Mission
The Voting Institute exists to advance the understanding of how voting methods shape outcomes. We conduct independent research on election design, voting systems, and evidence-based governance — studying everything from ranked-choice methods to quorum mechanics to participation patterns.
Our Thesis
Most organizations inherit their voting methods rather than choosing them. The result is that election outcomes are shaped as much by the method as by the voters themselves. A plurality vote, a ranked-choice ballot, and an approval vote applied to the same set of preferences can produce three different winners.
We believe organizations deserve to understand these dynamics so they can design governance processes that genuinely reflect the will of their members. Our research exists to provide that understanding — rigorously, transparently, and without advocacy for any single approach.
A Vote.Direct Initiative
The Voting Institute is funded and maintained by Vote.Direct, a secure online voting platform for community associations. Our research is editorially independent — we study the full landscape of voting methods and governance practices, including approaches that don't involve our sponsor's products.
We believe better understanding of voting leads to better governance, regardless of which tools an organization uses.
Editorial Principles
Rigor
We cite sources, describe methodology, and distinguish between correlation and causation. When evidence is inconclusive, we say so. When our conclusions have limitations, we disclose them.
Independence
Research conclusions follow the evidence, not our sponsor's product roadmap. We publish findings that support online voting and findings that identify its weaknesses. Credibility requires both.
Transparency
Our methodology is published. Our data sources are cited. Our relationship with Vote.Direct is disclosed on every page. You always know where our funding comes from and how our research is conducted.
Accessibility
Academic rigor does not require academic jargon. We write for board members, journalists, and governance professionals — not just researchers. Every publication should be useful to someone making real decisions.