ESRI and Hart InterCivic, Inc., have expanded their relationship to develop and offer geographic information system (GIS) solutions to the election community. This is the first time GIS-enabled election management solutions will be commercially available and marks a significant opportunity for state and local governments to enhance election processes. The initial offerings will focus on real-time election results and polling place locator applications.
"As a supplier of state and local government software and solutions, Hart InterCivic recognizes the majority of transactions conducted by our customers contain a spatial element," says Neil McClure, chief technology officer, Hart InterCivic. "Incorporating GIS technology into election management will increase efficiency and improve data accuracy. It also offers new levels of transparency for the management of elections, which will improve voter confidence."
ESRI and Hart InterCivic are working to develop applications for state and local governments based on ESRI ArcGIS technology. Hart InterCivic will incorporate GIS-based tools into applications that will enhance operations such as the routing of voting equipment and supplies as well as polling place location and ballot style searches. Additionally, GIS-enabled applications will provide a geographic real-time view of election-night results.
"ESRI’s GIS technology has been supporting election management for years," says Christopher Thomas, Government Industry Solutions manager, ESRI. "We recognize Hart InterCivic’s commitment to the election industry and thorough knowledge of the entire elections process. We are excited to work with Hart to develop robust, GIS-based applications that will improve elections for government officials, staff, and voters."
For more information, visit www.hartintercivic.com/ElectionMaps.