Electronic-Signatures: A Brief Introduction.

Today, any business can be a global business. Agreements may be made with vendors, customers and coworkers from anywhere in the world. An electronic signature—also known as an e-signature—is a simple and legally recognized way to indicate consent or approval on a digital document. E-signatures have been legally enforceable in the United States since the passing of the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce (ESIGN) Act (USA) in 2000. E-Signatures are also legally valid and enforceable in nearly every industrialised country around the world, but can vary significantly from country to country. These countries include the Unites States, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa, China, India and most EU countries. 1

Types of electronic signatures: -   Electronic signature: An electronic symbol or process attached to an agreement/record and executed or accepted by a person with the intent to sign the agreement or record. Examples include clicking an Accept/Approve button.

                                                           Digital signature: - An electronic signature that uses an encrypted digital certificate to authenticate the identity of the signer. Digital signatures are sometimes referred to as “advanced electronic signatures, qualified electronic signatures or other terms”. 2

Many companies choose to use electronic signatures rather than digital signatures whenever possible because of the extra steps and costs involved in attaching a digital certificate. This level of effort isn’t necessary for most business transactions, so many companies use simple e-signatures for the majority of their business. 1

Electronic signatures have seen significant adoption in the past decade. Replacing manual paper-based processing with automated, electronic processes has enabled organizations large and small to signifi-cantly reduce the times, errors and costs associated with getting customers, partners, supplier and employees to review and sign documents needed to close new business, authorize deci-sions, and move operations forward. Indeed, the impact electronic signatures have on an organization’s ability to deliver superior customer service, increase operational efficiency, and improve bottom line results has often far exceeded initial expectations. 3          

1.    Adobe Document Cloud Global Overview

2.    Adobe Global Guide to Electronic Signature Laws Around the Globe

3.    Silanis Understanding E-Signatures – A Beginner’s Guide

Every day tens of thousands of documents are generated that require signing. As explained above the vast majority of these can be signed with an electronic signature. Fortunately you now have the latest and most cost effective system available. For more information, costs, testimonials, a video and a Free Trial – www.u-sign-it.com.