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Businesses worldwide have begun to digitize many aspects of their operations in their bid to improve efficiency and reduce their dependence on paper-based processes. One small but important part of this digital transformation is the adoption of e-signature software, as it increases workflow efficiency and makes customer experience better.
An electronic signature is the digital version of a handwritten signature that is used to signify the consent of the owner of the signature to be bound to the terms of the document to which their signature is appended to. In this digital age, e signatures have proven to be more advantageous than their handwritten counterparts in contract and document management. It also streamlines business processes and is a more convenient way for people to sign documents while working remotely.
There are many e signature softwares used to facilitate its usage and also several factors to consider when choosing the right one for a business, and some of them are;
1. Level of Flexibility
It is important to consider if the software in question is flexible enough to satisfy a business’s growing needs. For example, some companies might start using an e-signature software in one unit but might spread the usage out to other departments in the establishment, and it would be helpful if the software would allow that expansion.
2. Convenience
One of the main reasons for the adoption of an electronic signature tool is the ability for signatures to be appended in real-time. If the user-interface of a software in consideration does not facilitate this, it would be a wrong choice. The ease of uploading a handwritten signature should also be a factor, as well as the ability to drag and drop a signature on the right spot on an electronic document. Lastly, it is worth considering if it would be easy for employees of online businesses to send and receive signature requests.
3. Ability to Integrate With Other Software
It would be a big advantage if an electronic signature software is able to be integrated by IT personnel to other business-related software and PDF applications to make it easier to sign documents.
4. Verification of Identity
There should be identity authentication methods put in place to ensure that the rightful owner of the signature is the one appending it to a certain document. An e signature software should only be used if there is no room for fraud or identity theft.
5. Custom Branding
Consider if the software would let the business maintain its unique brand identity during its usage. Some businesses appreciate the ability to customize their e-signatures because they feel it improves customer trust during digital transactions.
Endnote
In this fourth industrial revolution, companies have embraced the digitization of business processes, and this has led to the phenomenon of handwritten signatures being replaced by e-signatures for convenience.
There are many software applications that offer this service but there are also different factors to consider when picking the right one for a business. Most notably, their flexibility, ease of use, possibility of integration with other software, efficiency, identity authentication, and customization ability should be examined before adoption and implementation.