Voice Votes, Rising Votes (divisions) and Shows of Hands
Robert's Rules of Order states that a voice vote (viva voce) is the regular method of voting on any motion that does not require more than a majority vote for its adoption.
A simple rising vote (in which the number of members voting on each side are counted) is used principally in cases in which the chair believes a voice vote has been taken with an inconclusive result, or upon a motion to divide the assembly. A rising vote is also the normal method of voting on motions requiring a two-thirds vote for adoption. It can also be used as the first method of voting only a majority vote is required, if the chair believes in advance that a voice vote will be inconclusive. The chair can also order the vote to be counted.
A show of hands is an alternate to voice voting and can be used as the basic voting method in small boards or committees, and it is so used in some assemblies.
Read more about this topic: Voting Methods In Deliberative Assemblies
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