The new Wahl-O-Mat: More features - more debate
Interview with Sonia Binder, project manager for the Wahl-O-Mat
2.09.2021
Compare your political positions with those of the parties. The proven principle of the election tool remains, but now even more is possible: the Wahl-O-Mat has a new look and, above all, new usability. Sonia Binder is the project manager for the Wahl-O-Mat. In this interview, she talks about the new features and the importance of the Wahl-O-Mat for 3pc and for the undecided.
What was the biggest challenge in the conception and design?
The biggest challenge each time is that we have to present a lot of content clearly in a small space. On the one hand, we strive for a more playful and interactive approach: we want to show that the results are not static, but allow different positions to be analysed in more detail. On the other hand, the Wahl-O-Mat must remain clear and simple. After all, that is its key success factor.
When the Volt party filed a complaint against the Wahl-O-Mat in 2019 as part of the European elections because it felt that, as a small party, it was not sufficiently taken into account, we understood that. But we had to find a solution first. And we succeeded.
What's new for users of the Wahl-O-Mat?
It is now even easier to thoroughly analyse the result. Users can explore what they are particularly interested in: individual theses in the party comparison, the justifications for these theses or the parties' most important positions. You can also use the tuning option to change your own answers or adjust the weighting and switch it on and off to see what influence this has on the consensus.
The tool is very relevant for so many people and should therefore be usable for everyone.
And how are the new features being received?
From the usage data for the Wahl-O-Mat for this year's state elections in Baden-Württemberg and Saxony, we know that more than half of users are using the new features. That's a great success for us.
And what about accessibility?
We are pleased to be able to say that Wahl-O-Mat is now officially accessible - with a letter and seal of approval. The current accessibility standards are not easy to fulfil. But the tool is very relevant for so many people and should therefore be usable for everyone.
I hope that as many people as possible will vote, as this is the easiest way to influence politics.
What does the project mean to you?
The Wahl-O-Mat is definitely a project close to my heart and that of the team. It makes a really valuable contribution to the decision-making process. After all, who reads the election programmes of all the parties? And all of them at that? The Wahl-O-Mat is socially relevant, it can make a difference and that's why I'm a bit proud of our achievement.
What are your hopes for the general election?
I hope that as many people as possible will vote, as this is the easiest way to influence politics. I hope for a future Bundestag that is prepared to make bold decisions to shape a future of solidarity for all. For me personally, this means above all: a clear stance in the face of the climate crisis, more social justice and real prospects for migrants and refugees. But first, everyone has to vote. The Wahl-O-Mat will certainly help those who are undecided!