What is this calculator for?
The Hand Count Workload Calculator is designed to help election officials estimate the resources needed to conduct a hand count of ballots, whether for initial tabulation, an audit, or a recount. This tool simulates the counting process based on the number of ballots to be counted, the content of those ballots, and the resources available to complete the count (staff or time). The tool provides “default” time estimates for counting an “average” ballot, and also allows users to enter custom timing data, if available. Replacing the “default” timing data with timing data based on a jurisdiction’s specific ballot and counting process can improve the accuracy of the results.
How does this calculator work?
The Hand Count Workload Calculator uses a series of equations to model the workload of a hand count based on the data entered into the tool. The model used in this calculator is based on observational data collected during real U.S. elections. Like any model, however, it is a simplified representation of reality and may not align precisely with the process in any given jurisdiction. Results from this calculator should be treated as informed estimates rather than definitive conclusions.
To use the tool, you will need:
- Information about the hand count you would like to model, and
- An idea of the question you want to answer. You can use the calculator to:
- Learn how many counting teams are needed to complete the count in a set amount of time. Use the calculator this way to ensure you have enough people to finish the count before a pre-determined deadline.
- Learn how long the count should take with a set number of counting teams. Use the calculator this way to plan around fixed staff levels or space constraints.
Ready to get started?
- Read the User Guide for detailed instructions
- Go to the Hand Count Workload Calculator to try it yourself
Have feedback for us? We want to hear from you! Email [email protected] to share your thoughts on this tool or other EAC resources.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What parts of a hand count are included in these estimates?
This calculator estimates the time needed to review and record the votes for the specified group of ballots.
It does not include other necessary activities in a hand count, such as:
- the time needed to retrieve and prepare ballots and other materials for a hand count,
- the time spent determining voter intent on ballots with nonstandard marks, or
- the time required to maintain and document the chain of custody of the ballots.
Where does the “default” timing data come from?
The “default” timing options use statistical distributions to generate the time needed to count one Yes/No contest and one candidate contest. These defaults use data collected in a Northeastern state in November 2024 by the Engineering for Democracy Institute. Each question type on the ballot was observed independently, allowing time estimates to be constructed per question type. For more information, see the User Guide.
Note: While this calculator includes assumptions that may not exactly match the reality of your hand count process, the results may help generate estimates for planning and staffing a hand count. All information is provided for general information purposes only.