Electronic signatures ensure the authenticity of digital documents. In simple terms, this involves adding data to the document to prove its authenticity and integrity. Depending on the security level of a signature, the requirements for encryption, for the type of authentication, and for the signature certificate differ.
For a detailed overview of security levels and signature procedures, see the White Paper Electronic Signatures.
Security levels of electronic signatures
DocuWare enables you to implement electronic signatures with different security levels. A DocuWare stamp with a signature on a document is an example of a simple signature. To provide the infrastructure for signing digital documents with the "advanced" and "qualified" higher security levels, DocuWare works with external signature service providers like Validated ID or DocuSign that offer multiple authentication options and numerous signature application functions, such as multi-signature or automatic reminder.
Signature Service: interface and configuration
The interface for connecting external signature service providers is the DocuWare Signature Service—a web service that is integrated into workflow activities. Documents that are in a DocuWare workflow can therefore be transmitted to an external signature service provider. This service provider verifies and confirms the identity of the signer and returns the signed document with the signature certificate to DocuWare.
The integration of the DocuWare Signature Service into the workflow is handled by your DocuWare partner for you or by DocuWare Professional Services for direct customers.The following configuration instructions for the DocuWare Signature Service are intended for specialists in the configuration of DocuWare systems.
Configuration instructions
Preconfigured solution for electronic signatures
The workflows and other components such as file cabinets for an electronic signature are already set up in the preconfigured "DocuWare for Electronic Signature" solution. You can transfer documents for signing to external service providers, customers, partners, etc. without any further configuration effort on your part. The solution is available immediately for DocuWare systems version 7.4 or higher.