Tombola Generator

Purpose & User Intent: This tool solves the problem of running fair, auditable tombola draws for events, clubs, classrooms, and fundraisers. It accepts a participant list and optional ticket weights, performs one or more random draws, and returns structured results that can be exported. Target users include event organizers, activity coordinators, teachers, and volunteers who require reproducible outcomes and a transparent audit trail. Use it when you must produce transparent winners, track participation, and share results with stakeholders. Use cases include weekly raffles, prize draws after meetings, and classroom incentive lotteries. Core functionality supports multiple draws and exportable results for each draw.

Core Logic & Features: The system treats each entry as a unit, optionally carrying a weight for weighted draws, and supports multiple draws per session. Required features: participant input, number of draws, winners_per_draw, and an option to prevent repeat winners within the session. Optional features: seed-based reproducibility, weights, per-draw exports, and configurable repeat policy. The tool ensures fairness by sampling without replacement when repeats are not allowed and records selections for auditability; it can generate draw-by-draw winner lists and a final summary.

Inputs & Outputs & Algorithms: Inputs include participants (IDs/names), weights (optional), draws (int), winners_per_draw (int), seed (optional). Outputs produce a structured results object: for each draw, the winners (IDs and names) and a timestamp. Exports are CSV or JSON. The algorithm uses a seeded RNG when a seed is provided; otherwise it uses an unbiased RNG. If weights are supplied, sampling is weighted without replacement; else uniform. If winners_per_draw exceeds available unique entries and repeats are not allowed, an error occurs.

Error, Localization & Assumptions: Errors cover missing participants, non-positive draws, or invalid counts. Large lists are handled in memory with safeguards. Timestamps default to UTC; date formats align with ISO. Assumes unique participant identifiers and offline operation; excludes live data connections or branding. Provides no guarantees about regulatory compliance; intended for internal event management workflows.