E‐voting: from apathy to adoption

Abstract

PurposeTo identify the factors that influence adoption of e‐voting services by citizens between the ages of 18‐24.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses Carter and Belanger's (2005) model of e‐government adoption to assess young voters' intention to use an online voting system. The study integrates constructs from technology acceptance, diffusion of innovation, and web trust models. A survey is administered to 208 young voters. The data is analyzed using multiple regression analysis.FindingsResults indicate that user perceptions of compatibility, usefulness, and trust significantly impact their intention to use an electronic‐voting system. The model explains 76 percent of the variance in young voters' intention to use an e‐voting system.Research limitations/implicationsThe study only explores the perceptions of one age group. Future studies could use the model to access adoption perceptions of a more diverse pool of citizens.Practical implicationsGovernment agencies should emphasize the benefits of this electronic service to young voters. If marketed properly, the convenience and compatibility of e‐voting may be influential enough to motivate this normally apathetic demographic to participate in the election process.Originality/valueThis study explores adoption of internet voting by young citizens. An understanding of the factors that influence this demographics' intention to use e‐voting systems can be used to increase voter participation. The findings of this study also lay the foundation for future studies on e‐voting adoption.