Wet signatures have been with us since time immemorial. Organizations have used stamps, marks, signs, and seals to mark the authenticity of their documents. While these forms of signatures served their purpose, they have proved inefficient in today’s world. Technology has now made it possible to create electronic signatures that are traceable, more secure, and time stamped. This guide explains everything you need to know to create electronic signature.

Validity of Electronic Signature

The validity of eSignatures has been the subject of discussion in many forums. The answer is yes, they are valid. Most governments have passed laws regarding the use of eSignatures, and all seem to approve of them as long as the parties involved agree to use them. In the United States, eSignatures have even been used to pass laws. A document cannot be denied simply because it is electronic. Only in a few scenarios such as adoption and divorce documents may eSignatures be deemed inappropriate.

Creating Electronic Signatures

An electronic signature may be created in several ways. The simplest way is to draw using your finger or stylus on a touchscreen as you would on paper. This is a rather new option that has emerged with the advent of touchscreens and is mostly applied on mobile devices. Alternatively, you may use an image of your paper signature as the eSignature. Different platforms allow you to take a picture of the paper signature, which is then overlaid on the signature lines of your documents.

Traditional input devices are also used to create eSignatures. Using your touchpad or mouse, you can drag the cursor to create your signature. Signature creation software are programmed to track the movement of the cursor and store the impression. Keyboards are also used to create signatures in the same way as with any other text editor. Using a keyboard to create signatures is the easiest method. Simply type in your name on the signature line and select a font that is best related to your paper signature.

Final Thoughts

We need eSignatures much the same way we need other technological developments. These signatures present a safe and cost-effective way of signing documents. Use of eSignatures enables individuals and businesses save the time and labor traditionally used when signing wet signatures. Additionally, eSignatures have a traceable time stamp that helps to eliminate anonymity. With eSignatures, workflow is automated leading to faster production. Individuals should learn to create electronic signature to gain from these benefits.