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Electronic Signatures: eForm-Connect

 

What is an Electronic Signature?

A signature is a symbol that signifies intent. Signatures can be either electronic or on paper.  An electronic signature, as defined by Federal ESIGN legislation, means an 'electronic sound, symbol, or process, attached to or logically associated with a contract or other record and executed or adopted by a person with the intent to sign the record', and is as legally binding as if signed by hand. Electronic signatures take many different forms and are created by many different technologies.

eForm-Connect® and Electronic Signatures

Unlike, many electronic forms applications, eForm-Connect® is ESIGN compliant.  This allows users to seamlessly complete and sign the form with an understanding that they are legally bound to the contract or information provided.  The security requirements for electronic forms processing with a signature is similar to the security requirements for online banking systems. Information Systems like eForm-Connect® that support electronic signatures allow for authentication data to be captured, therefore, allowing electronic signatures to have a higher degree of authenticity than signatures made with pen and paper. 

How It Works:

1.   User Authentication: User begins by entering the application via a web browser, clicks on new user option, and enters identifying information and email. They will receive an email confirmation with their new user name and password indicating that the user is the correct person. 

2.   Electronic Form Completion and Signature: With the login and password, the user can now log into the application to complete the form.  To electronically sign the form, the user will type their name in a signature field and a symbol or mark, such as a barcode, would be attached to the form once the user has clicked a sign button indicating their intent to sign. Immediately upon completion of the form, the electronic signature is legally binding.

3.   Additional Security Request: If an additional level of security is desired, most systems may further provide the option to include test question authentication, such as requiring the user to enter their Mother's maiden name, a birth city, favorite car, a key date, etc. Such questions can be asked at user login and/or when submitting their signature to further ensure identity of the signer.