What characteristics must Best Western's electronic or online voting system have to ensure proper operation?
Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
For all Membership ballots, other than those conducted by a voice vote, the Corporation shall use an electronic or online voting system that shall:
- (A) Be confidential, auditable and secure;
- (B) Provide voter anonymity; and
- (C) Produce accurate vote counts.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 108–413)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the corporation is required to use an electronic or online voting system for all membership ballots, except those conducted via voice vote. This system must adhere to specific standards to ensure fair and accurate elections.
The electronic or online voting system used by Best Western must be confidential, ensuring that individual votes cannot be traced back to the voter. It also needs to be auditable, meaning there should be a way to verify the integrity of the voting process and confirm that no tampering occurred. Security is another critical aspect, protecting the system from unauthorized access and cyber threats that could compromise the vote.
Furthermore, the Best Western voting system must provide voter anonymity, ensuring that each member's vote is cast without revealing their identity. Finally, the system is required to produce accurate vote counts, which is essential for determining the outcome of any election or decision made by the membership. These measures collectively aim to maintain the integrity and fairness of the voting process within the Best Western organization.