6 Benefits of electronic signatures

Did you know that there are numerous benefits of electronic signatures over the traditional handwritten option? And with just a couple of clicks! Below, we present them to you. We also answer the main questions about how this digital solution can be used and its legality.

6 Benefits of electronic signatures compared to handwritten signatures

Here are the main benefits of electronic signatures:

1. Greater security and integrity of documents. The content of the signed electronic document cannot be altered, thus guaranteeing its authentication and the identity of the signatory.
2. Guaranteed confidentiality. The content of the message will only be known by those authorised to do so.
3. Elimination of paper. This directly implies a reduction in data storage (physical space) and a reduction in the costs of file management procedures.
4. Avoidance of travel and relocation. The act of signing can be carried out from any place, at any time. In this way, certain costs are avoided and a positive environmental impact is achieved.
5. It increases efficiency. By streamlining administrative procedures, avoiding paperwork and reducing manual procedures, the time needed to carry out processes is reduced. Consequently, the productivity and competitive capacity of the company and/or organisation is increased.
6. Universal Signature. Viafirma is also firmly committed to the Universal Signature. What does it mean? That you can sign with any browser (Safari, Chrome, Firefox, etc.), device (mobile, computer, tablet, etc.) and operating system (Android, Windows, iOS…).

How can I start using electronic signatures?

As you have seen, the benefits of electronic signatures are many. If you have been convinced and want to start using electronic signatures, you need a valid digital certificate issued by a Certification Authority accredited by the public certification body of the corresponding country. These certificates can be issued in hardware or rigid support (smart cards such as the Spanish DNI Electrónico) or in software format (certificate in a file, normally with the extensions .p12 or .pfx).

Initially, requesting this certificate can be a bit complicated. For this reason, different solutions have been developed, such as the OTP signature or the biometric signature, which allow citizens to sign documents without having to install anything on their devices.