Election App in Focus: VoterHub

Everyone has their own way to consume information for the election; many of us have turned to our phones as a way to find information. For those with a Windows based phone, be sure to check out VoterHub, which enables you to become an informed voter and find a lot of great information to help you out come election day. Microsoft’s Bright Side of Government blog also provides further context for the app, stating:

“With less than a month until Election Day, many Americans understand the importance of voting and having their voice heard. Here at Microsoft, we’ve made it a priority to help Americans practice their civic duty by developing and supporting innovative ways to make it easier than ever for voters. In addition to programs like MyVote, Microsoft recently teamed up with AT&T and Politics-360 to provide the newly announced app, VoterHub. Microsoft’s public sector team worked with these organizations to craft the app, with Microsoft’s Dale Michalk writing and delivering it in a short 2-week period. The app, which is available on Windows Phone, provides voters with national and statewide candidate information as well as a platform for voters to connect and share with their friends. Using information provided by the Voter Information Project and other sources such as Rock the Vote.”

The VoterHub website states, “Since America was founded it has been said that an educated populace is necessary to maintain a functioning democracy. That is why we at AT&T have brought you VoterHub, a non-partisan clearinghouse for information on the 2012 election season, and future elections, in all 50 states.”

The site also lists the functionality of the app:

• 
  Check voter registration status
• Register to vote
• Register online in jurisdictions where it is permitted
• Find out what the deadlines are for registering
• Have forms mailed to you
• Find out voter ID requirements
• Save a sample ballot of your intended votes
• Find out when early voting begins
• Find out when vote-by-mail/absentee voting begins
• Find out about military and overseas voting
• Find your local polling place
• View your state’s election calendar
• Find out who is on the ballot, down to state legislative races
• Find detailed information on each candidate, including polling information and ratings on key issues
• Find out about ballot initiatives
• Discuss issues
• Share content through social media
• Use “”I Voted”” check-in through foursquare
• Read the latest election news from The Associated Press
• View educational and entertaining videos related to elections and issues
• Listen to music by artists promoting the importance of voting and participating in the election process
• View countdown to election

This is a great app, without a lot of really cool features to help people become more informed about candidates and other ballot initiatives.

Every day at Microsoft we are motivated and inspired by how our customers use our software to find creative solutions to business problems, develop breakthrough ideas, and stay connected to what’s most important to them. Check out their Microsoft Productivity for Government group on GovLoop as well as the Technology Sub-Community of which they are a council member.