The digital signature is an essential tool. It is an easy and secure method to sign your documents online and to carry out various administrative and commercial acts.
The digital signature has the same usefulness and value as the handwritten signature.
In this article, find out how to create an electronic signature.
How does an e-signature work and why use it?
The e-signature is the digital version of the handwritten signature. However, they do not have the same presentation. The digital signature is not a scan of the handwritten signature. It is presented in the form of a series of numbers assigned to the signatory and the signed document.
The digital signature is non-reusable and cannot be moved to another document. Once edited, you cannot modify it either.
The digital signature is used to sign various documents such as employment contracts, invoices, purchase orders, mandates and sales agreements, quotes, accounting documents, legal documents or even notarial deeds, using a computer or other electronic tools such as your cell phone or tablet.
Thanks to the digital signature, you can limit meetings between humans and travel as much as possible, resulting in a remarkable saving of time.
In terms of organization, the digital signature facilitates the tracking and exchange of documents. You can easily distinguish signed documents from those that are not yet signed. In addition, your data is more secure.
E-signature also has a significant advantage in contributing to reducing environmental impact. Less travel, paper and ink for more savings.
How to make an e-signature?
Creating an e-signature is done using software or online platforms such as Adobe Sign. Regardless of the support used, the production process is almost identical.
- Step 1: You receive an email notifying the need for signature
- Step 2: Click to open the “verify and sign” link in the email
- Step 3: Click on the document and click on the area to sign
- Step 4: Create the digital signature. To do this, you can choose between entering your name, drawing your signature using your mouse, importing your handwritten signature or signing with your finger on the touch screen of your smartphone or tablet
- Step 5: Click apply to add your signature
- Step 6: Confirm signature
- Step 7: Send the signed document to the sender
The digital signature is generally affixed to a PDF document. If necessary, transform it into a Word document .
Are digital signatures legally binding and secure?
In France and in several countries, the digital signature has the same legal value as the handwritten signature.
Just like with the handwritten signature, you can use the digital signature to guarantee the integrity of your electronic document. This signature will allow you to be identified if you are the signatory.
It is also a mark that you consent to the content of the document. It is, moreover, a quick, safe and legally binding solution.
A legal digital signature must have a proper authentication code, email address, and IP address. It may also be accompanied by a webcam photo of the signatory. These elements are necessary for verification of the electronic signature.
This article might interest you: How to make an electronic signature on Outlook?
Conclusion
Digital signing has many advantages. Not only does it allow you to limit your travel but also to save on paper and ink and above all to preserve the environment while maintaining the security and authenticity of your document.
The digital signature is produced using certain software or on web platforms.
Today, the e-signature is binding and secure.
