In recent years, thanks to the advancement of new technologies and the encouragement of institutions and governments, the international expansion of companies is becoming more and more common. You no longer need to be a company with a lot of infrastructure to be able to go out to other markets. This is partly due to what we know as digital transformation and solutions as Viafirma available in the market that allow it to become a reality. We explain why the digital signature is one of your best allies to achieve international expansion with your company.
Globalization and its Impact on Business
The 21st century has turned the world into a global village. Political, social and economic processes have transformed social relations, both in the way we interact and economically. But business relationships have also been transformed, allowing companies like Uber and Netflix to rapidly expand globally thanks to the advancement of the telecommunications industry. Globalization continues to evolve, driven by digital technologies and changing consumer behavior. Governments are well aware of this. Not for nothing is the Digital Agenda for Europe one of the seven initiatives of the Europe 2020 Strategy. In it, the EU recognizes the importance of using ICT to ensure a secure, open and fair digital environment.
In this regard, the Digital Single Market Strategy was developed, whose objectives are to improve access to digital goods and services, to create the right conditions for their success and to exploit the growth potential of the digital economy.
Digital Transformation
Digital transformation has been key to the international expansion of companies. Integrating new technologies in a structured way has profoundly changed the business culture, facilitating greater mobility and accessibility. A clear example is the smartphone, which allows entrepreneurs to carry their office in their pocket, eliminating physical barriers and allowing them to close deals anywhere.
Mobility and the Digital Signature
Mobility has revolutionized the way of doing business, and the digital signature is an essential tool in this new environment. With the digital signature, it is possible:
- Close agreements from anywhere in the world
- Avoid unnecessary travel
- Collaborate with national and international companies
- Gain in efficiency
With the same legal validity as a handwritten signature. This is especially useful in internationalization, where distances and availability of signatories can be a challenge.
Legal recognition of digital signatures in international expansion
In the European Union, the digital signature is legally valid thanks to the EU regulation 910/2014. In other countries, a recognition agreement by the competent authorities is necessary. But in general, it greatly facilitates international transactions by eliminating the need to be physically present to sign documents.
Practical Applications at International Trade Fairs and Events
Trade fairs are a key venue for international expansion. With digital signatures, there is no need to carry paper contracts; everything can be managed from mobile devices, which speeds up negotiations and allows agreements to be signed in real time. In addition, the copy can be sent to those involved by digital means instantly.
The Importance of Delegation
For senior executives with busy schedules, digital signature delegation is a crucial functionality. It allows tasks that require a manager’s signature to continue without his or her presence, avoiding delays and ensuring business continuity. Thanks to it, minor tasks that also require a manager’s signature can be carried out even if the manager is not present. For example, the general manager can delegate his signature to his secretary to avoid unnecessary delays.
Viafirma facilitates the business internationalization
All these advantages offered by the electronic signature can be achieved with Viafirma‘s solutions, thanks to its innovative concept of universal signature. All users can use it in any computer, tablet or mobile device, whatever their operating system is.
The disappearance of borders is only a part of the international business expansion. To be successful, companies must adopt innovative technological tools that allow them to be more competitive and efficient, such as the digital signature. In addition to its advantages in global expansion, the digital signature improves the company’s public image by promoting sustainable and efficient practices.