In Switzerland, we vote on a regular basis. On federal laws, cantonal policy and very specific local proposals. Whether it’s a new school complex, a new cultural center or the question of how a parliament works at all: A good voting video makes the difference between informed voters and an empty envelope.
This is exactly what we do, and we have been doing it for cities, cantons and federal authorities throughout Switzerland for over ten years.
Two types of voting videos
Anyone who needs an explanatory video for a vote or election faces different communication goals. In our work for public authorities, we therefore distinguish between two types:
- Process videos “How do I vote? ” Step-by-step instructions that show how the voting process works: from opening the voting envelope to sending it correctly. Ideal for new voters, first-time voters or simply anyone who wants to make sure their vote counts.
- Factual videos “What am I voting on?” Videos that explain a specific proposal in a neutral way: What is being built? What will it cost? Which options are available? These videos provide information without judgment and help the public to make an informed decision.
We often combine both approaches in a video series.
Voting video references
Canton of Bern – Elections explained, in German and French
For the Canton of Bern, we have produced a three-part video series that explains both the cantonal government bodies and the election process itself. One video introduces the Grand Council, another the Government Council and the third takes you step by step through the election process.
The special feature: all three videos were produced for German and French, linguistically and culturally adapted, not just translated. They are used on the website of the State Chancellery and on YouTube.
Languages: DE, FR Year: created in 2018, adapted in 2021
City of Zurich
We were able to realize several voting videos for the city of Zurich – with a feature that is particularly close to our hearts: Sign language.
Both productions – a general explanatory video on the voting process and a specific video on the vote on the Riedhof school complex – have been produced entirely in sign language. This is not an additional service, but an integral part of the production: accessible from the outset.
Languages: DE, sign language
City of Zug
The city of Zug is one of our longest-standing partners in the area of voting communication: to date, we have produced over 15 voting videos for the city. On construction projects, urban development projects and political proposals of all kinds.
Two examples from our most recent collaboration: the explanatory video for the vote on the Theater Casino Zug presents an emotionally charged urban issue in a factual and neutral way. The video on the planned expansion of the lido explains the project in such a way that voters really know what they are voting on.
What this long-standing partnership shows is that a well-structured explanatory video system can be efficiently developed for each new template, in the same style, with the same voice, recognizable as a city brand.
Language: DE Implementation: 2025
Political neutrality: not a compromise, but a craft
When an authority provides information about a voting proposal, it bears responsibility. The video may explain, but not move. Inform, but not influence.
This sounds simple, but is challenging to implement. Even the choice of a word, the order of arguments or the imagery can be perceived as partisanship. Our editorial process is designed to avoid these pitfalls. Through clear guidelines, internal review steps and close coordination with the client.
The result: videos that really inform the population and that show this care.
Accessibility: right from the start, not as an afterthought
Our work for the city of Zurich shows where the journey is heading: voting videos with sign language are no longer an add-on. They are part of the basic equipment for inclusive communication with authorities.
The same applies to subtitles, transcripts and high-contrast design. These requirements are standard today and we are happy to integrate them from the start of production, not as an afterthought.
The right style for every community
No two cantons or cities communicate in the same way. That’s why we adapt the style and tonality to the respective image. The client’s CI is always the starting point, not a limitation.
Who can use voting videos?
- Cantons: Declaration of elections, referendums, cantonal institutions
- Cities and municipalities: local construction projects, substantive proposals, budget votes
- Federal authorities: federal referendums, parliamentary processes
- Education and political awareness: first-time voters, schools, NGOs
Are you planning a vote or election and looking for an experienced team to make complex templates understandable? We will be happy to advise you without obligation and with a specific focus on your project.