The Quick Count and Election Observation

C H A P T E R E I G H T : T H E E N D G A M E
Statements should
NOT overemphasize
data on election
results or solely focus
on election-day events.
126 Two crucial points should be made regarding election-day statements by civic
organizations conducting quick counts. First, statements should NOT overemphasize
data on election results. Responsible, well-crafted statements place
information on numeric election results firmly within an analysis of the quality
of the voting and counting processes. Second, statements should NOT solely
focus on election-day events. Effective statements evaluate election-day events
within the context of pre-election factors and the need to monitor post-election
developments.
How can groups respond to external pressure to release quick
count results?
Groups often experience extreme pressure to provide various constituencies
access to their information and, in general, to release it quickly. Requests can
come from internal and external sources (e.g., from board members, funders
or the press).
The first step in responding to this pressure is to discuss the factors limiting the
ability to predict when results will be available. The simulation held prior to
elections will help to establish a general time frame, but leaders should be
aware that no simulation can accurately predict election-day delays. Interference
on telephone lines or viruses in the computer system may prolong data processing.
Moreover, close or poorly administered elections will force organizers
to allow more time for complex data analysis.
It is important for observer groups to stress their commitment to working within the
law and explicitly state their commitment to independence and the truth rather than
speed or politics. The point to be made is that the observation plan has been
devised with great care and with the dual purpose of benefiting the country’s political
process and safeguarding the organization’s long-term credibility.
SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES
Once groups establish consensus on how they will manage and share electionday
data, they can prepare for the practical work required during elections.
Certain pre-election and election-day activities can help groups play an effective
and constructive role. They include:
• The election-day simulation—A successful simulation is the first concrete
predictor of election-day success. The group can hold a press conference
following the exercise to share the success, emphasizing the number of
volunteers participating, the percentage of calls received of those expected
and the capacity of the communication/data collection system to
receive and quickly process the information. Alternatively, organizers can
invite small groups to witness all, or parts, of the simulation. Funders,
media representatives, electoral officials and any affiliated nongovern-