In addition to recording votes and counting ballots, a wide variety of electoral tasks may benefit from automation. 37 Election planning, managing, budgeting, and record keeping may be automated using standard word processing, spreadsheet, and database software, or special-purpose software designed specifically for election managers.
Software is available to assist in drawing precinct boundaries and assigning voters to precincts.
Software and optical scanners can be useful for verifying and counting signatures on petitions. Similar tools can be used to verify signatures on absentee ballot envelopes. Computerised systems, including computer bulletin board systems and World Wide Web sites can assist in providing information to candidates, parties, and voters. 38 Software can assist in monitoring campaign contributions and spending. Candidates may be required to submit their reports electronically, and this information can be made accessible to other candidates and voters through a computer bulletin board system or World Wide Web site.