In the 1980’s the fax machine was first used to transmit documents electronically from one location to another. Documents were sent to an office, signed by a receiver, and then transmitted back. The signature was as valid as a document signed in person using an ink signature. This was one of the earliest examples of an e-signature.

Electronic signatures and electronic signature software are fast replacing pens and ink signatures in everything from legal documents to company memos. Electronic signatures are not just a fashionable trend, but a smart, practical, and efficient business solution. There are a lot of reasons for this development.

Validity – Electronic signatures on documents are as valid as any ink-signed document. Each e-signature is customized and unique to their owners. Most countries now have laws upholding the validity of any electronically signed document.

Security – An e-signature is often more secure than an ink signature. Traditional signatures can easily be forged by a skilled hand, while electronic signatures are tough to forge and replicate because of electronic cryptography.

Non-repudiation – An important advantage to using an e-signature is that it cannot be repudiated once it is put in any document. This means that a person cannot deny that he signed the document in question. Unlike ink signatures, which can be forged, an electronic signature ensures the integrity of a document.

Adaptability – In a world that where almost everything is online, businesses are going online as well. To keep up, companies must adapt to current business trends, like using electronic signature software. We are now living and working online, and we must also adapt to paperless documents and electronic signatures.

Business improvement– For all companies, it is important to watch out for concepts and trends that aim to improve aspects of their business. Keeping an edge is important for a business to grow and operate. The use of an e-signature is one of those trends to watch out for.

Mobility – The Wi-Fi and e-mail features of mobile phones today can allow a person to remotely receive, write, and send documents. Esign software can also allow a person to sign documents and make deals on the go, from anywhere.

Fast communication– Electronic signature software makes communication between businesses and their clients and partners fast and reliable. What used to take days or weeks for two agreeing parties to review and sign documents now only takes minutes.

Efficiency – Faster communication means a faster and more efficient business. Traditional communication and signing methods using paper courier services usually take 1-2 weeks. If you use an e-signature, this can all be done in a matter of minutes.

Cost-effectiveness – Using electronic signatures means a company is saving money on ink, paper, and other expenses like courier services. These resources can be put to good use. You can divert it to the core aspects of the business, or invest in a company’s expansion.

Go green – One advantage to using an e-signature is that paper is not wasted. Since document communication and signing can be done electronically, fewer trees are cut down. This is a good method of conservation and has a very positive impact on the environment.