oboloo

oboloo FAQ's

Is There A Way To Sign A Document Online?

Is There A Way To Sign A Document Online?

Are you tired of having to print out documents, sign them by hand, and then scan or mail them back? In today’s fast-paced world, we need a more efficient way to sign documents. Luckily, technology has provided us with a solution: digital signatures. Digital signatures are becoming increasingly popular in the procurement industry due to their convenience and security. In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about signing a document online using digital signatures. Let’s dive in!

What is a digital signature?

A digital signature is a secure way to sign electronic documents. It is a mathematical code that is unique to the signer and the document, making it impossible for anyone else to replicate.

Digital signatures use public key cryptography, which means that there are two keys: one private and one public. The private key is known only by the signer, while the public key can be shared with anyone who wants to verify the signature.

When you sign a document digitally, your private key creates a hash of the document (a unique fingerprint), which is then encrypted using your public key. This encrypted data becomes your digital signature and can be added directly to an electronic file or embedded in an email message.

The benefits of using digital signatures are numerous. They save time since they eliminate the need for printing out physical copies of documents and mailing them back-and-forth for signatures. Digital signatures also provide increased security as they ensure that only authorized parties have access to sensitive information.

Digital signatures offer greater efficiency and security than traditional paper-based signing methods, making them increasingly popular in procurement processes around the world.

The benefits of using a digital signature

A digital signature is a secure way of signing electronic documents that have the same legal standing as handwritten signatures. There are several benefits to using a digital signature for your procurement documents.

First and foremost, it saves time and money. With traditional paper-based methods, signing and sending documents can take days or even weeks. By contrast, digital signatures allow you to sign and send documents instantly from anywhere in the world.

Digital signatures also provide greater security than traditional methods. They use encryption technology to ensure that only authorized parties can access the document. This means that there is less risk of fraud or tampering with your procurement documents.

Another benefit of using digital signatures is increased efficiency. You no longer need to print out contracts or purchase orders, sign them by hand, scan them back into your computer system, and then email them to others involved in the process.

Using digital signatures helps promote sustainability by reducing paper usage and waste associated with printing procurement documents.

There are many compelling reasons why companies should consider switching from traditional paper-based signing methods to digital signatures for their procurement needs.

How to sign a document online

Signing a document online has become increasingly popular and convenient in recent years. It saves time, money, and eliminates the need for printing, scanning, or mailing documents. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to sign a document online:

1. Choose an electronic signature software that suits your needs.
2. Upload the document you want to sign into the software.
3. Select “sign” or “add signature” option in the software.
4. Create your digital signature by typing your name or drawing it using your mouse or touchscreen device.
5. Place your signature where required on the document.

It’s important to note that some countries have legal requirements for electronic signatures such as having secure validation methods and tracking capabilities.

Always ensure that you comply with these regulations when signing important documents such as contracts, invoices or legal agreements online.

Signing documents electronically offers ease and convenience while reducing paper usage and printing costs in procurement processes of businesses today!

Alternatives to signing documents online

While signing documents online can be a convenient and time-saving option, it is not always the best choice for every situation. In some cases, you may need to consider alternatives to signing documents online.

One alternative is printing out the document and physically signing it. This option may be necessary if the document requires a notarized signature or if there are legal restrictions on digital signatures in your jurisdiction.

Another alternative is using an electronic signature pad or stylus. These devices allow you to sign your name digitally but with the added physical sensation of writing on paper.

You could also use email confirmation as proof of agreement when dealing with less formal agreements such as proposals or quotes. However, keep in mind that this method typically won’t hold up in court.

Depending on your industry and specific needs, you may require specialized software that offers additional security features or compliance measures beyond what standard e-signature solutions provide.

While signing documents online has become more commonplace due to its convenience and efficiency benefits, it’s important to weigh all options and choose the method that works best for each unique situation.

Want to find out more about procurement?

Access more blogs, articles and FAQ's relating to procurement

Oboloo transparent

The smarter way to have full visibility & control of your suppliers

Contact

Feel free to contact us here. Our support team will get back to you as soon as possible

Oboloo transparent

The smarter way to have full visibility & control of your suppliers

Contact

Feel free to contact us here. Our support team will get back to you as soon as possible

© 2024 oboloo Limited. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of oboloo content, including by framing or similar means, is prohibited without the prior written consent of oboloo Limited. oboloo, Be Supplier Smart and the oboloo logo are registered trademarks of oboloo Limited and its affiliated companies. Trademark numbers: UK00003466421 & UK00003575938 Company Number 12420854. ICO Reference Number: ZA764971