The IEEE Standards Sponsor Ballot process is the means by which consensus is achieved on the proposed IEEE Standard. A ballot is usually conducted for 30 days, however this period is flexible. During the open ballot period, the ballot group will be able to review the documents, submit comments, and cast a vote. If the ballot group has not yet been formed, the Sponsor must first form the ballot group before starting the ballot. Sponsors or Chairs can log onto myBallot to begin the invitation process through the SUBMIT INVITATION REQUEST function.

To begin the Sponsor Ballot, follow these steps:

• Initial ballot
  • Mandatory Editorial Coordination must be completed before the sponsor ballot begins.
  • INITIATE THE SPONSOR BALLOT and UPLOAD THE FINAL DRAFT in pdf format into myBallot system.
  • Staff will review the documents and if everything is in order, the ballot period will open.
  • Other Mandatory Coordination is required to ensure specific organizations are aware of, and have a chance to review and comment on draft standards projects during the Sponsor Ballot process. They can makes comments; not a vote. These organizations are:
  • Standards Coordinating Committee (SCC) 14 -- Quantities, Units and Letter Symbols.
  • SCC10 -- IEEE Dictionary; and Staff Editorial Review.
  • IEEE Registration Authority Committee (RAC) may be automatically included in your balloting group if requested by the Sponsor. This may happen if the PAR indicates possible registration of objects or numbers.
• Recirculation ballot
  • Prepare and upload the revised draft in pdf format. Include the current date and updated draft number, with changes highlighted (preferable) or a summary sheet showing changes made to the last draft.
  • Complete the comment resolution process in myBallot.
  • Prepare and upload the required Recirculation Cover Letter which outlines the major changes made to the document.
• Reaffirmation ballot
  • INITIATE THE SPONSOR BALLOT
  • IEEE-SA Staff will upload the last published standard.
    

During the ballot period, the myBallot system will provide the Sponsor or Chair with the BALLOT ACTIVITY SUMMARY (vote and comment information). In addition, the system will automatically send reminder e-mails to those in the ballot group who have not submitted a vote using automatic e-mail alerts.