DocuSign

DocuSign is a digital transaction management platform that allows users to sign, send, and manage documents electronically. It simplifies the process of obtaining signatures on documents, making it faster and more efficient than traditional paper-based methods.

To illustrate how this works, let us use a scenario in which you need to update your details with your bank.

Scenario: Updating your KYC details with a bank

1. Upload the document

• Log into your DocuSign account (using the associated email address).
• Upload a document that needs to be signed, preferably in PDF (even though other formats like MS Word can work). Of course, the document should contain the personal details that you are updating. BTW, if the bank has a DocuSign document, it will have fields for the details you need to update.

2. Place the Signature

You have options for how your signature appears: you can draw it using a mouse or touchscreen; type it out in various fonts; or upload an image of your handwritten signature. Ask about requirements that counterparties may have. Example(s): Banks may request an image that matches the signature they have on file.

• (Once the document is uploaded), use DocuSign’s interface to place your signature. To do this, navigate to the specific spot in the document where you want to sign and click on an option (usually labeled “Sign” or “Add Signature”).

3. Send the Document to the counterparty (whether they have a DocuSign account or not)

• Entering the email address of the recipient (the bank’s representative) within DocuSign. This generates a hyperlink or sends an email notification directly to them.

4. The counterparty sees your signed document

The bank will receive a notification that there is a document awaiting review and (if required,) their signature. They will see the specific spot where you signed on the document (because DocuSign highlights signatures and any other fields filled out during this process).

5. Counterparty accepts your electronic file

(Once the bank receives and reviews the signed document), they accept the document electronically through DocuSign. FYI, the platform provides an audit trail that confirms receipt and acceptance of the signed document, ensuring both parties have a record of this transaction.

6. Save and use signed documents offline

• Optional. From the DocuSign platform, you and the bank download the documents in PDF format. The documents now have all signatures and timestamps indicating when each action occurred. The printable document will have your electronic signature that visually resembles the signing option you chose for the appearance of your signature, whether handwritten or otherwise. (See note above about options).
• Optional. print out the signed document. The printed version will show all signatures and any other annotations made during signing, making it suitable for sharing with others as proof of signing.

Functionalities that relate to offline use depend on subscription levels, whether free trial, individual subscription or paid subscription.

CONTENT RELATED TO DOCUSIGN

• How to create a DocuSign account (third party YouTube video)