Innovation in Action - Digitalizing Local Democracy

Progress and Challenges in the Deployment of a Legislative Electronic Voting System

Abstract

Previous work addressed the development of a functional prototype of a legislative electronic voting system designed for the Honorable Deliberative Council (HCD) of Bahía Blanca, within the framework of a comprehensive strategy aimed at digitalizing deliberative processes and modernizing local government structures. Following this presentation, the CD initiated an institutional process that culminated in the approval of a decree authorizing the official implementation of the system, thereby marking a significant milestone in the digital transformation of the municipal legislative domain. This new contribution presents the advancements achieved in both the software and hardware components of the system, emphasizing enhancements in interoperability and usability for council members and institutional authorities. In addition, the paper examines the technical and political challenges associated with institutional adoption, including regulatory considerations, training requirements, and issues related to technological governance. Moreover, the study proposes a roadmap for the effective implementation of the Quadruple Helix model (State, University, Industry, and Civil Society) as a strategic framework for scaling this solution to other municipal legislative bodies, thereby fostering a public innovation agenda grounded in cross-sectoral collaboration.