Online voting has revolutionised how organisations, associations, and companies manage their decision-making processes. If you’re evaluating a solution to digitise your organisation’s elections, Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse is likely one of the comparisons you are considering. Both platforms are established players in the global online voting landscape, each with distinct approaches, strengths, and positioning.
Eligo by Lumi Global, with presence in Australia, the US, and serving organisations in more than 75 countries, and BigPulse, founded in Australia with operations across the USA, Europe, and UK, share the goal of making voting more secure, accessible, and transparent. However, differences in features, market approach, and support models can make a significant difference in your final choice.
This article provides an in-depth comparison of the two platforms, Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse, to help you understand which best fits your organisation’s specific needs, providing the necessary elements for an informed decision.
Section 1: overview of both platforms
1.1 Eligo by Lumi Global in brief
Origin and positioning: Eligo is part of Lumi Global, a global leader in technology-driven governance and voting solutions. The company has international offices in North America, Europe, and the UK, serving hundreds of clients across 75 countries.
Main focus: Eligo positions itself as a complete solution for remote, in-person, and hybrid voting, with particular attention to legal and regulatory compliance and user experience. The platform serves nearly 5,000 organisations of all sizes, from small condominiums to large multinational corporations, spanning both public and private sectors. As part of Lumi Global’s governance technology stack, Eligo strengthens the company’s ability to support the full spectrum of governance needs, from government-grade elections to professional self-service digital voting.
Recognised strengths:
- ISO 27001, 27017, 27018, and 9001 certifications from accredited third-party bodies.
- SOC 2 compliance for security and data protection.
- Listed in the ACN (Italian National Cybersecurity Agency) qualified suppliers catalog.
- WCAG 2.2 AAA accessibility compliance – highest international accessibility standard.
- Dedicated UX Research team continuously improving user experience.
- Support for hybrid voting with integrated management of in-person and online participants.
- Dedicated team of specialists with specific expertise in electoral processes.
- Biennial penetration testing and vulnerability assessments by key sector players.
- Consolidated experience with successful case studies in diversified sectors (banks, universities, multinationals, public administration, associations and federations, etc.).
- World’s only platform offering fully integrated end-to-end verifiability (E2EV) with low coercion using Self-Enforcing E-Voting System cryptographic protocols.
- 3072-bit RSA encryption for maximum security and future-proofing.
- 256-bit AES encryption for data at rest.
- Global presence through Lumi Global in Australia, US, and 75+ countries.
- Ranked-Choice Voting and Single Transferable Vote (STV) support.
- Fully-managed service available as optional – platform designed for simplicity, no IT skills required.
1.2 BigPulse in brief
Origin and positioning: BigPulse is an Australian company founded in January 2000 by Ralph McKay, a pioneer in online voting technology. The company has international offices in North America, Europe, and the UK, serving hundreds of clients across 35 countries. With over 20 million voters served and presence in Australia, the US, and more than 75 countries, Eligo distinguishes itself through technological solidity and high-level security certifications.
Main focus: BigPulse positions itself as a proven solution with 25+ years of experience, having powered over 100,000 elections for 1,000+ customers. The platform emphasises flexibility and comprehensiveness, handling even the most complex election requirements while maintaining ease of use through an intuitive dashboard.
Recognised strengths:
- Over 25 years of experience with 100,000+ elections delivered.
- Particularly strong in Australian universities (60%+ market share) and unions.
- Two service models: Fully-Managed with dedicated project managers and Self-Managed for tech-savvy administrators.
- All major voting methods supported (FPTP, STV, ranked choice, weighted, split, cumulative, range voting).
- Vote receipt verification protocol enabling voters to self-audit their vote receipts.
- 24/7 dedicated support with emergency telephone support in USA, EU, and Australia.
- McAfee SECURE daily certification scanning for malware, phishing, and exploitable weaknesses.
Section 2: quick comparison table
This table highlights the key structural differences emerging in Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse at a glance.
| Aspect | Eligo by Lumi Global | BigPulse |
| Free plan | ✓ (up to 10 voters, 7 days) | ✗ |
| Free trial | ✓ (7 days) | Demo available |
| Base price | €60/month (up to 200 voters) | From $899 USD (fully-managed) |
| Self-managed option | ✓ (standard plan) | ✓ (subscription-based) |
| Hybrid voting | ✓ | Not specified |
| In-person voting with QR | ✓ | Not specified |
| Weighted voting | ✓ | ✓ |
| Proxy voting | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ranked-Choice Voting | ✓ | ✓ |
| Single Transferable Vote (STV) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Multi-language ballots | ✓ | ✓ |
| Real-time results | ✓ | ✓ |
| GDPR compliant | ✓ | ✓ |
| Accessibility standard | WCAG 2.2 AAA | ADA, Section 508 |
| Native mobile app | ✗ (browser-based) | ✗ (browser-based) |
| API available | Available | Not specified |
| SSO protocols | CAS, Shibboleth, MS, OAuth | CAS, Shibboleth, LDAP |
| Encryption strength | 3072-bit RSA + 256-bit AES, TLS | 256-bit SSL/TLS |
| Security certifications | ISO 27001/17/18, SOC 2 | McAfee SECURE |
| Verification system | True E2EV with SEEV Self-Enforcing E-Voting System protocol | Vote receipt protocol |
| 24/7 support | Enterprise plan | ✓ (email + phone) |
| Global presence | Australia, US, 75+ countries | USA, EU, UK, Australia |
Table: structural differences in Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse.
Section 3: detailed comparison by area
To better understand Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse, it is useful to analyse each platform by functional area.
3.1 Voting Features
Eligo by Lumi Global provides complete voting features with particular attention to flexibility, regulatory compliance, and user experience:
- Online, in-person, and hybrid voting with unified experience management.
- Ranked-Choice Voting and Single Transferable Vote (STV) (with sophisticated configuration options).
- QR code generation for rapid accreditation at in-person events.
- Weighted voting to manage differentiated voting powers.
- Proxy management with controls to prevent double voting.
- Customisable ballots with document attachments.
- Multi-language support for international elections with real-time translation.
- Real-time results or encrypted until closure.
- True End-to-End Verifiability (E2EV) with SEEV protocol – cryptographic verification ensuring votes are cast as intended, recorded as cast, and tallied as recorded, with low coercion risk.
- Physical voting stations with workstations managed by Eligo.
- Multi-level authentication with SMS OTP, Magic Link, SSO (CAS, Shibboleth, Microsoft, OAuth).
- Vote immutability with strong coercion protection and data separation mechanisms.
- 3072-bit RSA encryption for future-proof security beyond 2030.
- 256-bit AES encryption for data at rest.
BigPulse offers a comprehensive set of voting features designed to replicate any electoral system. The platform supports:
- All major voting methods: First Past The Post, Single Transferable Vote (STV) with proportional representation, Ranked Choice Voting, preferential, instant runoff, weighted voting, split voting, cumulative voting, range voting.
- Extensive STV expertise with many sophisticated built-in configuration options.
- Weighted and split voting with different weights per voter across different ballots (ideal for shareholder AGMs with overlapping shareholders).
- Proxy voting with quick input of paper ballots and proxy holders.
- Repeat voting enabling voters to change their vote a set number of times (only last vote counted).
- Candidate rotation to remove ballot-order bias.
- Candidate write-ins with automatic counting and automatic control of undervotes/overvotes.
- Online nominations with self-nomination, automatic transfer to ballots after close.
- Sophisticated anonymity options from absolute anonymity (no database link between vote and account) to full transparency (show of hands).
- Vote receipt verification protocol enabling voters to locate their unique receipt code in published results and verify their vote was recorded.
Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse: considerations for choice for voting features
Eligo distinguishes itself through true cryptographic end-to-end verifiability using SEEV protocols, which goes beyond receipt checking to provide mathematical proof that votes are correctly recorded and tallied. With the launch of Ranked-Choice and STV capabilities, Eligo now matches BigPulse’s preference voting expertise while maintaining superior hybrid voting depth. The 3072-bit RSA encryption provides future-proofing beyond current 2048-bit standards. The focus on in-person/online integration with QR code management and physical voting stations provides advantages for complex assemblies requiring simultaneous participation modes.
BigPulse excels in breadth of voting methods, with 25+ years of refinement in complex preferential systems like STV and instant-runoff. The vote receipt verification protocol provides transparency by allowing voters to locate their receipt in published results. The sophisticated anonymity options provide flexibility for different transparency requirements.
Key distinction between Eligo by Lumi Global and BigPulse: Eligo offers true end-to-end verifiability (cryptographic proof of vote integrity throughout the entire process with low coercion resistance), while BigPulse offers vote receipt verification (voters can find their receipt code in results). This technical difference represents one of the most relevant distinctions in Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse.
3.2 User experience and accessibility
Eligo by Lumi Global places exceptional emphasis on user experience and accessibility, supported by a dedicated UX Research team:
Administrator Experience:
- Intuitive backoffice designed for non-technical administrators – no IT skills required.
- Setup in few clicks – platform simplicity eliminates technical barriers.
- Guided setup with support from dedicated specialists when needed.
- Fully-managed service optional – available for complex needs, but platform designed for self-service ease.
- Complete assistance center with guides and tutorials.
- Demo on request to familiarise with platform before event.
- Reporting results report is digitally signed, guaranteeing its authenticity and integrity through verifiable certifications.
Voter Experience – Industry-Leading Accessibility:
- WCAG 2.2 AAA compliance – highest international accessibility standard (Level AAA).
- Screen reader compatibility with optimised content structure.
- Full keyboard navigation for users unable to use pointing devices.
- Customisable interfaces: adjustable font sizes, color contrasts, and screen layouts.
- Assistive technology integration for voters with disabilities.
- Cross-device responsive design – seamless experience on desktop, tablet, smartphone.
- Real-time language translation for diverse voter populations.
- One-click authentication via unique secure links.
- Simplified voter journey despite backend complexity.
- Dedicated UX Research team continuously testing and improving user experience.
- No downloads or plugins required – universal browser-based access.
Additional Support:
- Multichannel support with team of electoral process experts.
- Complete outsourcing service available for those preferring full delegation.
- Leverages Lumi Global’s proven meeting technology for seamless governance experiences.
BigPulse offers two distinct approaches depending on service model:
Fully-Managed Service:
- Dedicated project manager uses secure link to gather election details and sets up election.
- Automated setup and testing saves time and money.
- Easy-to-use Election Dashboard for monitoring and managing key aspects after setup.
- Minimal client involvement in technical configuration.
- Expert guidance throughout process.
Self-Managed Service:
- Ballot-template wizard for quick ballot creation.
- Fully-featured Election Manager with sophisticated configuration tools.
- Intended for tech-savvy administrators comfortable with detailed configuration.
- Run unlimited elections during subscription period.
Voter Experience:
- One-click voting – unique link in email automatically authenticates and logs voters into ballot.
- ADA and Section 508 compliant for voters with visual impairments.
- No downloads required – browser-based access from any device.
- Automatic vote receipt confirmation emails with unique verification code.
Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse: considerations for choice for user experience and accesibility
Eligo excels in user experience and accessibility, particularly for organisations prioritising inclusion. The WCAG 2.2 AAA compliance (highest accessibility standard) ensures the platform is usable by voters with diverse abilities, including visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive disabilities. The dedicated UX Research team’s continuous improvement process demonstrates ongoing commitment to user-centered design. The intuitive backoffice designed for non-technical administrators means no IT skills are required – the platform is simple enough for self-service, with fully-managed support available as an option when needed. For organisations with accessibility requirements, diverse voter populations, or those prioritising ease of use for both administrators and voters, Eligo’s UX leadership represents a significant advantage. The report includes general information about the election, participation data, and detailed results for each ballot question with vote counts and percentages. It ensures transparency by clearly presenting turnout and outcomes in a structured format. The document is digitally signed, guaranteeing its authenticity and integrity through verifiable certifications.
If your primary goal is minimal involvement with expert handling of all technical aspects, BigPulse’s Fully-Managed Service provides a hands-off experience with dedicated project managers removing complexity entirely. For tech-savvy administrators who want control and unlimited elections, BigPulse’s Self-Managed Service offers powerful tools with a steeper learning curve but maximum flexibility.
From an accessibility and usability perspective, Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse reflects two distinct philosophies of platform design.
3.3 Security and compliance
Eligo by Lumi Global presents an extremely robust security profile with high-level certifications and advanced cryptographic systems:
- ISO 27001:2022, 27017, 27018, and 9001 certifications from accredited third-party bodies.
- SOC 2 compliance demonstrating verified controls for security and data protection.
- Regular vulnerability assessments.
- 3072-bit RSA encryption providing security through 2030 and beyond, exceeding current 2048-bit standards.
- 256-bit AES encryption for data at rest.
- Double-key encryption on digital ballot box ensuring vote integrity.
- Hosting in Italy and Azure European data centers for GDPR compliance and data sovereignty.
- Azure cloud infrastructure with highest security, reliability, performance, high availability, resilience, and scalability.
- GDPR compliance with dedicated DPO and collaboration with IT legal experts.
- Nearly two decades of experience in secure electoral process management.
- Complete audit log for total operation traceability.
- True End-to-End Verifiability (E2EV) with SEEV cryptographic protocol – mathematically proven verification that votes are cast as intended, recorded as cast, and tallied as recorded.
- Low coercion resistance built into E2EV system protecting voter privacy.
- Strict separation between voter identity and ballot data with strong encryption and secure session isolation.
- Immutable cryptographic logs preventing manipulation throughout the voting process.
BigPulse adopts a solid security approach with long-established protocols:
- 256-bit TLS/SSL encryption for all communications.
- McAfee SECURE daily certification scanning for malware, phishing, exploitable weaknesses, and SSL certificate validity.
- Vote encryption mode where votes are encrypted not only in transfer but also at rest in database.
- Sophisticated anonymity controls with multiple levels from absolute anonymity to full transparency.
- Automatic anonymity disclosure to voters (cannot be suppressed or altered).
- Password encryption with various levels of password quality control and automatic alerts of suspicious activity.
- GDPR compliant when handling data from EU.
- Multi-tiered architecture with physically separated web application, database, and email sub-systems for redundancy.
- IP address and browser signature tracking for investigation capability while maintaining data separation.
- Secure administrator access with transparent and fully auditable activity logs and change tracking.
- 25+ years of operational experience refining security protocols.
- Vote receipt verification protocol allowing voters to locate their receipt in published results.
Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse: considerations for security and compliance
Both platforms offer high security standards and guaranteed GDPR compliance.
Eligo presents a broader and more advanced certification profile with four distinct ISO certifications, SOC 2 compliance. The 3072-bit RSA encryption exceeds industry standards (2048-bit) and provides future-proofing well beyond 2030.
The critical differentiator is verification methodology: Eligo provides true end-to-end verifiability (E2EV) using SEEV cryptographic protocols, which mathematically proves that every vote is cast as intended, recorded as cast, and tallied as recorded. This cryptographic approach provides stronger guarantees than receipt-based verification while maintaining low coercion risk – a significant technical advancement providing mathematical certainty of vote integrity.
BigPulse provides a vote receipt verification protocol where voters can locate their unique receipt code in the published results list to confirm inclusion. Most of the time the recorded vote is shown. BigPulse benefits from McAfee SECURE daily certification, and anonymity controls that can be tailored to specific transparency requirements. The multi-tiered architecture with physical separation provides resilience.
Security architecture remains one of the defining elements when comparing Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse.
3.4 Pricing and transparency
Eligo by Lumi Global offers a flexible licensing-based pricing structure:
Free Plan:
- Up to 10 voters.
- 7-day free trial.
- Self-service.
- 256-bit AES encryption for data at rest.
- Participation status display.
- Base feature set including WCAG 2.2 AAA accessibility.
Standard Plan:
- Incremental pricing for less than 200 voters, pricing tiers based on voters.
- From €60/month for monthly license (30 days).
- Up to 200 voters.
- Remote support included.
- Self-service with optional expert assistance.
- Monthly billing.
- Access to standard features including STV and Ranked-Choice.
- Full encryption and accessibility features.
Fully managed Plan:
- Price on request.
- Over 200 voters.
- Remote, on-site, and hybrid options.
- Complete outsourcing available (fully-managed optional).
- Premium support on request.
- Additional modules available.
- Access to Lumi Global’s broader governance platform capabilities.
Transparency: Eligo provides a pricing grid for voter tiers, but exact prices for each tier require contact with sales team. High flexibility with customisation options.
BigPulse offrse two main service models:
Fully-Managed Service:
- Starting at $899 USD.
- Includes election setup and ongoing support from experienced election managers.
- Automated setup and testing process.
- Dedicated project manager throughout.
- 24/7 email support with emergency telephone support.
- Pricing varies based on number of voters and election complexity.
Self-Managed Service:
- Contact for quote – pricing not published online.
- Subscription-based: 3, 6, or 12 months.
- Run unlimited elections during subscription period.
- Full-featured Election Manager access.
- Intended for tech-savvy administrators.
- 24/7 email support with emergency telephone support.
Additional Information:
- Payment methods: cheque, direct transfer, Visa, MasterCard in AUD, EURO, GBP, USD.
- Non-profit discounts: available – contact with requirements for fixed-price quote.
- Adding voters: contact for quote, account updated immediately upon acceptance.
- Invoice sent once account created.
Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse: considerations for choice for pricing and transparency
Eligo offers a genuine free plan (up to 10 voters) enabling risk-free platform testing with full 3072-bit encryption, 256-bit AES for data at rest, and WCAG 2.2 AAA accessibility. The tier structure allows gradual scalability and cost effective plans. For organisations with complex needs or high volumes, the Enterprise model with customised pricing may be more cost-effective than standardised plans. The integration with Lumi Global’s broader platform provides additional value for organisations with diverse governance needs.
BigPulse’s Fully-Managed Service starting price ($899 USD) provides an entry point for budgeting, though final pricing depends on requirements. The model is particularly suited for organisations valuing expert management and willing to invest for hands-off execution. Self-Managed pricing requires direct contact but enables unlimited elections during subscription, potentially offering better value for frequent voting.
When comparing Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse, pricing transparency is comparable across both platforms, as both publish starting prices but require sales interaction for accurate quotes.
3.5 Support and assistance
Eligo by Lumi Global structures its support model around flexibility and governance expertise, allowing organisations to choose the level of involvement they need.
Self-Service Model
Platform designed for non-technical administrators
- Intuitive backoffice requiring no IT skills.
- Remote support included in standard plans.
- Dedicated assistance center with guides and documentation.
- Multichannel support (email and phone, depending on plan).
The platform is intentionally built for simplicity, enabling organisations to independently manage elections while retaining access to expert assistance when required.
Fully-Managed Service (Optional)
For complex elections or highly regulated contexts, Eligo offers a fully-managed model that includes:
- Dedicated project manager.
- Pre-election configuration and validation.
- Support during live voting.
- Hybrid and in-person event coordination.
- Advisory support on statutory and regulatory requirements.
- Enterprise plans may include premium 24/7 support for mission-critical voting events.
As part of Lumi Global’s international governance technology ecosystem, Eligo benefits from global operational experience across Australia, the US, Europe, and 75+ countries.
Positioning takeaway:
Eligo is designed to be self-service by default, with consultative expertise available when complexity increases.
BigPulse clearly differentiates its support through two structured service paths.
Fully-Managed Service
- Dedicated project manager.
- Election setup and configuration handled by BigPulse.
- Automated setup and testing processes.
- 24/7 email support.
- Emergency phone support across USA, EU, and Australia.
This model is designed for organisations that prefer minimal involvement in technical configuration.
Self-Managed Service
- Access to the Election Manager dashboard.
- Ballot-template wizard.
- 24/7 email support.
- Emergency phone support.
- Intended for administrators comfortable managing detailed configurations.
BigPulse’s 25+ years of operational experience in election management contributes to its structured support framework, particularly in sectors such as Australian universities and unions.
Positioning takeaway:
BigPulse places stronger emphasis on project-managed election delivery, particularly attractive to organisations seeking a hands-off approach.
Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse: considerations for choice for support and assistance
Eligo positions support as consultative specialisation with flexibility. The platform is designed for simplicity enabling self-service operation without IT skills, while fully-managed service is available as an option for organisations with complex needs or those preferring complete delegation. The team of electoral process experts provides value beyond technical support, offering strategic guidance on complex elections or stringent legal requirements. Premium 24/7 support for Enterprise plans ensures coverage for critical events. As part of Lumi Global, Eligo benefits from a global support network spanning Australia, the US, and 75+ countries.
BigPulse’s Fully-Managed Service provides the high level of hands-on support with dedicated project managers handling all technical aspects. The 24/7 email plus emergency phone support across three regions (USA, EU, Australia) ensures coverage regardless of time zone. BigPulse’s Self-Managed Service maintains 24/7 support but expects greater self-sufficiency from tech-savvy administrators who want control over configuration details.
When evaluating support models in Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse, the choice ultimately depends on whether your organisation values flexible consultative expertise with optional full management, or a more structured project-managed approach with hands-on technical oversight.
Section 4: use case scenarios – Who should choose what
Understanding typical use cases helps clarify who benefits most from Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse.
Eligo by Lumi Global as online voting platform might be the right choice if
- You prioritise user experience and accessibility with WCAG 2.2 AAA compliance (highest international standard), screen reader compatibility, keyboard navigation, customisable interfaces, and assistive technology integration for voters with disabilities.
- You need a platform designed for non-technical administrators where no IT skills are required, with intuitive backoffice enabling setup in few clicks, while fully-managed service remains available as an option for complex needs.
- You run frequent elections and are tech-savvy where the Self-Managed subscription model with unlimited elections during the period provides excellent value for money and control.
- You run complex hybrid elections with simultaneous in-person and online participants where management of physical voting stations, QR code accreditation, and integrated double-vote prevention are critical requirements.
- ou require true cryptographic end-to-end verifiability (E2EV) using SEEV protocols for mathematical proof that votes are cast as intended, recorded as cast, and tallied as recorded – the world’s only fully integrated E2EV with low coercion.
- You need future-proof encryption with 3072-bit RSA providing security well beyond 2030, exceeding current 2048-bit industry standards, plus 256-bit AES for data at rest.
- You serve large or multinational organisations with advanced enterprise requirements or highly regulated sectors, complex SSO integrations (CAS, Shibboleth, Microsoft, OAuth), and API needs for integration with existing systems.
BigPulse as online platform for voting might be the right choice if
- You need expert hands-off election management where a dedicated project manager handles all setup, testing, and technical aspects. The Fully-Managed Service minimises client involvement while ensuring professional execution.
- You need sophisticated anonymity controls with specific transparency requirements varying across different ballots. BigPulse’s multiple anonymity levels from absolute to full transparency provide flexibility.
- You need proven longevity with 25+ years of operational experience and 100,000+ elections delivered demonstrating reliability at scale.
- You prefer vote receipt verification where voters can locate their unique receipt code in published results to confirm inclusion.
Section 5: making the right decision for your digital elections
Choosing between Eligo by Lumi Global vs BigPulse ultimately depends on what your organisation values most: operational simplicity, user experience, governance depth, cryptographic verification, election experience, or hands-off project management.
Both platforms are mature, secure, and internationally deployed. Both support advanced voting methods, proxy and weighted voting, real-time results, and GDPR compliance. Neither is a lightweight tool — they are serious governance technologies.
The distinction lies in philosophy and architecture.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is based on publicly available data from BigPulse and Eligo official websites at time of publication (February 2026). We encourage readers to verify directly with vendors for updated information on pricing, features, and service conditions. This article has informational and comparison purposes and does not constitute a purchase recommendation.