Definition
A qualified electronic signature is an electronic signature created using a qualified certificate and a qualified signature creation device. In a document workflow, it is one stage of the process, for example after the contract wording has been agreed and approvals have been completed. The system should route the correct document to the correct person, retain the version sent for signature, receive the result, and record its status. A signature does not replace process design: roles, order, exceptions, and the archiving method still need to be defined. Selecting the type of signature appropriate for a document and assessing its legal effects requires review by the relevant people in the organization. Explore process automation.