Electronic Signature SaaS Applications: In today’s business world, time and security are critical factors that must be prioritized in every Software as a Service (SaaS) platform. Using electronic signatures is a great way to enhance both.
E-signatures move the signing procedures to the easiest and quicker signing solution for different documents, contracts, and agreements for the users.
This article discusses the requirement to adopt Electronic Signature SaaS Applications as well as discussing how to implement them in your application and how to identify the best one for your SaaS apps.
What is an Electronic Signature?
An e-signature, also commonly referred to as an electronic signature, is the digital equivalent of a handwritten one. It is applied to sign contracts or other documents and this function is considered equal to using a pen and putting a signature.
E-signatures are authentic, they can be validated and it usually takes less time compared to other methods of signing.
Benefits of Integrating Electronic Signatures
Increased Efficiency and Productivity
Incorporation of electronic signatures into the SaaS application will vastly cut the turnaround time of signing a document.
Such approaches may include printing, mailing, and even waiting for the return of this paper with the signatures which may be unheard of and may take days or even weeks.
Electronic signatures provide fast signed documents’ turnaround allowing organizations to make prompt decisions and increase efficiency.
Enhanced Security
Electronic signatures bring in other security features that are not available in traditional signings with a signature.
Most electronic signature solutions include encryption, trails, as well as ID and delete controls as a way of safeguarding signed documents, and as a way of proving the identity of the signers.
Cost Savings
Adopting electronic signatures is a cost saver for an organization. Thus, by avoiding the use of paper, printing, and postal services or delivery, the operational expenses of enterprises are saved.
Moreover, reducing time spent managing and storing paper-based documents results in more savings.
Choosing the Right Free Electronic Signature Software
When selecting a free Electronic Signature SaaS Applications, it’s essential to consider the following factors:
Ease of Integration
Select the software that can easily integrate with the current SaaS application that you are currently using.
Search for solutions that you could integrate into applications as e-signatures without the need for monumental coding.
Security Features
Make sure that the e-signature software offers such features as encryption, audit trail, and many other forms of authentication.
These features are essential to ensure the non-tampering and non-contravention of the laws of the signed documents.
User Experience
The user experience should be clear and simple. When signing is complicated, it becomes a disincentive that discourages the adoption of electronic signatures. Seek for software that has a friendly interface that supports easy signing processes.
Popular Free Electronic Signature SaaS Applications Software Options
Several free e-signature services are available that can be integrated into your SaaS application. Here are some popular options:
DocuSign
Recall that one of the leading companies that offer electronic signatures is DocuSign. They have a free trial option that comes with fundamental e-signature features.
It is easy to use, and has high-level security and support for API, making it one of the best for the implementation of e-signatures on the SaaS application.
HelloSign
HelloSign, now acquired by Dropbox, provides a free version where people can send and sign up to 3 documents monthly.
They also own one of the best graphical user interfaces and exceptional security measures which attracts small business merchants, and the individuals.
Adobe Sign
Adobe Sign is under the Adobe Document Cloud and comes with a free version but contains limited features.
One of the most well-known features is the ability to integrate well with its related Adobe products and its strong security functions.
How to Integrate E-Signature Capabilities into Your SaaS Application
Integrating electronic signature capabilities into your SaaS application involves several steps:
Step 1: Choose the Right E-Signature Software
Select an electronic signature software that meets your requirements based on the information provided earlier in this file.
Make sure that the selected SOA has available APIs and SDKs to integrate into the project.
Step 2: Obtain API Keys
After selecting the e-signature provider of your choice, create an account on that platform and request the API keys.
Your application needs these requests to be identified and communicate with the e-signature service.
Step 3: Integrate the API
Integrate the e-signature API in the respective SaaS application with the help of the below documentation.
This usually entails developing algorithms for receiving documents, requests for signatures, and notifications for documents that have been signed.
Step 4: Test the Integration
If the integration is intended to go live, it is crucial to test it to its limits to verify the desired operation.
Ensure all the necessary document features such as upload, signing, and return options are operational, and security features are in good shape.
Step 5: Go Live
After you are sure that you have properly integrated your application, run it on your live site. Be attentive after initiating the integration to check for some problems that may hinder the flow of work.
Free Electronic Signatures: Pros and Cons
Using free electronic signature services can be a great way to get started with e-signatures, but it’s essential to understand the pros and cons:
Pros
- Cost-Effective: Several websites offer e-signature tools for free; thus, one does not need to invest in any tool at the onset.
- Ease of Use: Numerous free services provide expressive interfaces that enable the user to complete and sign contracts easily.
- Quick Implementation: Free services always set you up for integration so that you can start using e-signatures without much software development.
Cons
- Limited Features: Note that paid services limit the number of documents that can be signed and include unique features.
- Branding: They may offer free services like placing their logo on signed agreements.
- Scalability: As your business grows, you may outgrow the limitations of free plans and need to upgrade to a paid plan.
Enhancing Workflow Automation with E-Signatures
Applying e-signatures in the SaaS application as an extension of your CRM can enhance workflow automation to a great extent. Here’s how:
Automated Document Workflows
When you adopt e-signatures, the document management processes are completely digital throughout the whole cycle.
Through such tools, one can create documents, send them for signing and store signed documents in an automated manner.
Real-Time Notifications
Such systems normally allow for status update notifications on documents to all the different parties involved.
This ensures no slip-ups in the process and that documents are signed promptly.
Centralized Document Management
When using the e-signatures, all the signed documents are saved electronically at one location. It also makes it easy to store and organize the documents and be in a position to locate them when the need arises.
Online Signature Software for Different Industries
Different industries can benefit from integrating online signature software into their SaaS applications:
Real Estate
For real estate companies, it is convenient to apply e-signatures to sign rental and purchase agreements, as well as other papers. It helps to shorten the cycle of contract signings and enhances customer satisfaction.
Legal
Using e-signatures allows legal firms to save time and costs related to sign documents online.
Clients often encounter agreements, contracts, and any legal documents requiring an e-signature for real estate due to its security and convenience.
Healthcare
The application of e-signatures can be applied in healthcare for patient consent, disease records, and other essential documents.
This ensures timely document signing, secures patient records, and boosts the health facility’s productivity.
Conclusion
This ensures timely document signing, secures patient records, and boosts the health facility’s productivity.
With the help of the right free electronic signature software and the guidance provided in this article, it will be easy to incorporate e-signature within the application to receive the benefits.
Electronic signatures laws may apply to various industries, including real estate, law practices, healthcare, and others, which means that they can only complement your business and the processes in it.
It’s important to take into consideration the advantages and disadvantages of free e-signature services and their potential for adaptation to the growing business.
When implementing these points along with WeSignature, the application of e-signatures becomes a powerful tool in your SaaS application while the signing will not cause any friction to your users.
