How to send documents for e signature
Sending documents for electronic signature (e-signature) has become a common practice in many industries, including business, finance, and healthcare. Here are the general steps to send documents for e-signature:
- Choose an e-signature platform: Select a reputable e-signature platform that meets your needs, such as DocuSign, Adobe Sign, or HelloSign. These platforms offer various features, pricing plans, and integrations with other tools.
- Prepare your document: Make sure your document is ready for e-signature by ensuring it is:
- In a PDF format (if possible)
- Legible and easy to read
- Free of errors and typos
- In a format that can be easily signed (e.g., a fillable PDF form)
- Upload the document: Log in to your chosen e-signature platform and upload your document. You may need to create an account or log in if you already have one.
- Add signers: Identify the individuals who need to sign the document and add them to the signing process. You can usually do this by entering their email addresses or names.
- Set signing order: Determine the order in which signers will sign the document. This is important to ensure that all signers have the necessary information and context before signing.
- Set expiration date: Choose an expiration date for the signing process. This ensures that the document is only available for signing within a specific timeframe.
- Send the document: Once you've set up the signing process, send the document to the signers via email or through the e-signature platform's interface.
- Track the signing process: Monitor the signing process in real-time to ensure that all signers have received and signed the document.
- Verify signatures: Once all signers have completed the signing process, verify that all signatures are valid and the document is complete.
- Store the signed document: Store the signed document in a secure location, such as your e-signature platform's storage or a cloud storage service like Dropbox or Google Drive.
Some popular e-signature platforms and their features:
- DocuSign: Offers advanced security features, integrations with popular tools like Salesforce and Microsoft Office, and a user-friendly interface.
- Adobe Sign: Provides advanced security features, integrations with Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Office, and a user-friendly interface.
- HelloSign: Offers a simple and affordable e-signature solution with integrations with popular tools like Google Drive and Dropbox.
When choosing an e-signature platform, consider the following factors:
- Security: Look for platforms that offer advanced security features, such as encryption, two-factor authentication, and audit trails.
- Ease of use: Choose a platform with a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to send and manage documents.
- Integrations: Consider platforms that integrate with your existing tools and workflows.
- Pricing: Evaluate the pricing plans and ensure they fit your budget.
- Customer support: Look for platforms with reliable customer support and a knowledge base.