How to convert signatures to digital signatures

In the contemporary business landscape, digital signatures stand out as a formidable tool, offering an alternative to handwritten signatures, particularly in situations requiring remote approvals.

These digital signatures hold legal weight and provide robust assurances, making them suitable for a variety of tasks such as notarizing documents, signing contracts, and authentication processes. Given the current flexible work environment, the adoption of digitized signatures is becoming increasingly imperative.

Fortunately, the process of converting handwritten signatures into electronic versions has become swift and effortless. E-signature software empowers users to either draw their signatures digitally or upload scanned versions seamlessly within minutes.

Read on for an insightful guide on how to effectively digitize your signature.

1. Takeaways:

Wet signatures, physical documents signed with ink, can be converted into electronic signatures through scanning or photographing. Electronic signatures offer increased flexibility, convenience, and security compared to traditional analog forms. Utilizing a reliable electronic signing tool is the most secure and professional method for creating electronic signatures.

2. What is the difference between a wet signature and an electronic signature?

A wet signature involves physically signing a document with ink, whereas an electronic signature is a digitally generated mark using a digital certificate, symbolizing the acceptance or approval of an agreement or record. The Federal ESIGN Act of 2000 defines electronic signatures as digital processes logically associated with a contract or record.

3. Is a scanned signature an electronic signature?

While electronic signatures are often created from scratch using e-signature software, a scanned image of a handwritten wet signature is legally valid under the Federal ESIGN Act of 2000. Both methods hold equal legal standing. Creating an electronic signature involves generating it from the ground up, as opposed to a scanned signature, which requires capturing a photo or uploading an image of your handwritten signature to a computer.

4. How to create a signature digitally

The most effective way to create a digital signature is through an electronic signing tool. These tools enable users to draw or type their signatures digitally, producing a digital format from the outset without the need for subsequent digitization. There are also options that enable you to generate an electronic certificate with every document so information is securely protected.

5. What are the benefits of a digital signature?

Digital signatures offer enhanced convenience and security over traditional methods. They facilitate streamlined workflows, boost contract close rates, and are cost-effective. Additionally, digital signatures eliminate the need for paper document storage and reduce administrative tasks associated with in-person signings.

6. How to convert signatures to digital signatures

a. Draw and Scan:

Handwriting and scanning your original signature is the standard way to digitize a wet signature.

1- Write your signature clearly on a paper document using black ink. 2- Scan the document at the highest resolution possible. 3- Crop the image, adjusting brightness if needed. 4- Save the image as a JPG or PNG file, with PNG preferred for transparent backgrounds.

b. Take a Photo:

If you don’t have a scanner, another option to create a digital signature is to photograph the written text.

1- Using an iOS or Android device, take a well-lit photo of your signature on white paper. 2- Crop the photo to remove excess space. 3- Save the image as a JPG or PNG.

If you are new to electronic signatures and are looking for a reliable tool to get started, SignDif provides an all-in-one, simple, and secure solution. SignDif allows you to sign your documents by taking a photo or drawing your signature directly from the app.