Electronic signature API: what it is and when to use [+ examples]

Electronic signatures have become an increasingly popular option for businesses and individuals looking for a more efficient and secure way to sign important documents.

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No wonder this is a market with the potential to reach US$12,721.5 million by 2030 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 26.6%, according to dice from PSMarketResearch.

And, with the rise of APIs (Application Programming Interface), it became possible to incorporate this feature directly into applications and systems. Believe me, this is a tangible solution!

Although it is a function that goes practically unnoticed by users, the API is very present not only on corporate platforms, but mainly on social networks: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and the vast majority of sites that sell products and services.

After all, one of the greatest features of this technology is practicality. In this article, we will explore the advantages of using APIs for electronic signatures, as well as some practical cases of how they can be used in different industries.

What is an electronic signature API and how does it work?

An electronic signature API allows developers to embed electronic signature functionality directly into applications and systems, making the process faster and more convenient for end users - who don't have to leave the site or application they're already used to to validate their information.

This solution makes it easy to access authorized data with speed, comfort and communicability, even allowing developers customize and adapt these features to the needs of their applications.

In short, electronic signature APIs vary in features and integrations, depending on the service provider. Some common features include signer authentication, digital signature, timestamp, document validation, and signature tracking, and some providers also offer integrations with popular document management apps, such as Google Drive And the Zapier.

Advantages of using an electronic signature API

Electronic signature APIs offer numerous advantages, ranging from small and medium-sized companies to undertakings Enterprise, helping to simplify and accelerate business processes, reduce employee workload, increase efficiency and improve user experience... In addition to these, some of the key benefits include:

Agility and transparency

The APIs of electronic signature allow companies to obtain signatures on documents quickly and easily, eliminating the need to send physical documents for signature or to hold face-to-face meetings.

This speeds up business processes, as documents can be signed immediately and accessed by all parties involved. In addition, it offers more transparency, since everyone involved can view the subscription process and the statuses of the documents in real time.

security

Electronic signatures are secure and encrypted, making them less susceptible to fraud and manipulation than paper signatures, since they are stored on secure servers, reducing the possibility of incidents and guaranteeing the document's authenticity.

Another factor is the fact that they are compatible with current legislation regarding authentications available, which guarantees not only the legal validity of electronically signed documents, but also compliance with the rules and standards that maintain the data security.

Uncomplicated integration

Electronic signature APIs can be easily integrated into existing applications and systems, allowing users to sign documents without leaving the app.

Once integrated with a company, the tool guarantees automatic updates for your various areas of use, validating data, documents, and signatures for a longer period. Its configurations are simple, adapted to the corporate routine and optimizing everything from the robustness to the secure modernity that competes in the market.

In addition, artificial intelligence allows automate forms, advance registration filings and internal processes.

Time and cost savings

By eliminating the need to print, sign, and scan documents manually, there is a real saving of time and money in paperwork, printing, and shipping.

In view of this, a procedure that was previously bureaucratic and administrative becomes a competitive differential capable of boosting your results by reallocating resources (which were previously wasted) where they really matter, converting them into greater profits for your company.

Efficient closing of deals

Electronic signature APIs allow companies to close deals faster, as they eliminate the need to wait for documents to be manually signed.

This is particularly useful for companies that need to close contracts urgently, such as in the case of B2B or B2C sales.

In addition to these facts, it is also worth mentioning the flexibility of the tool: it is possible to resolve large procedures remotely.

Improves customer experience

Electronic signature APIs allow customers to sign documents quickly and conveniently, anywhere and anytime, which can improve consumer satisfaction and loyalty.

After all, today, all people are used to carrying out online transactions quickly and easily. Why would signing documents online be any different?

How to Choose the Best Electronic Signature API for Your Business

With so many electronic signature API options available, it can be difficult to choose the one that's best for your business. Here are a few things to consider when evaluating market options:

• Check the API security: security is a major concern when dealing with sensitive information and important documents. Make sure that the electronic signature API you're considering has adequate security measures to protect user data, such as encryption, multi-factor authentication (facial biometry, digital certificate, among others) and access management. In addition, note whether it complies with relevant laws and regulations, such as General Data Protection Law (LGPD) and best practices and Information Security policies.
• Evaluate the ease of use: the choice of an electronic signature API must take into account ease of use. It's important that the API offers an intuitive user interface, clear documentation, and technical support to help users understand how to use the tool.
• Consider the price: cost is another important factor to consider. Evaluate the prices of different options and make sure they fit your budget.
• Check the available resources: electronic signature APIs can offer a wide range of features, including mass signatures, integrations with other systems, branding, and more. Check what features are important to your business and choose an API that meets your specific needs.
• Consider the vendor's reputation: search for user reviews, information about the company, and its experience in the electronic signature market. Clicksign, for example, is the only 100% national company in the market with ISO 27001 certification.
• Check compatibility with your system: see if the chosen API integrates with the applications and systems you currently use, including your existing processes, such as document management tools, CRM, and ERP.
• By following these tips, you can choose the best electronic signature API for your company and start reaping the benefits of this integration as soon as possible.

5 practical examples of using electronic signature APIs

Electronic signature APIs can be used in a variety of ways across different industries and applications. Let's look at some of the most common everyday applications:

1. Business Contracts

One of the most common ways to use electronic signature APIs is for business contracts. For example, a retailer can send a supplier contract to a company using the API, allowing the supplier to sign it electronically and send it back to the retailer, all without the need to print and send the paper document.

2. Tax and financial documents

Electronic signature APIs can also be used for tax and financial documents. For example, an accountant can send a tax return to a customer via email and the customer can sign electronically using the API.

3. Hiring employees

Companies that hire a lot of employees can use electronic signature APIs to simplify the hiring process. This may include sending hiring documents, such as application forms and contract terms, via email or another channel, allowing candidates to sign remotely, saving time and resources.

4. Real estate sector

In real estate, electronic signature APIs can be used for rental agreements, property sale agreements, and other documents. For example, a realtor can send a tenancy agreement to a tenant via email and the tenant can sign it electronically using the API.

5. Health sector

Electronic signature APIs can also be used in the healthcare industry for informed consents, confidentiality terms, and other related documents. For example, a patient can receive an informed consent form via email before an appointment and sign it, wherever they are, using the API.

These are just a few practical examples of how companies can use electronic signature APIs to save resources, improve security and user experience, and simplify processes.

In Clicksign, in addition to all this, you will also find all the Necessary documentation, practical improvements, and API references on a platform specially designed for you. So, if you want to know more about how this integration can accelerate the growth of your business, Click here and talk to one of our experts.