If you’re here, it’s because you want to understand what Universign is and how it works, without feeling like you’re reading an old administrative law manual. Good news, you’re in the right place! We’re going to talk about electronic signature, timestamping, and certifications, but with a light tone and concrete examples. Ready? Let’s go.
What exactly is Universign?
You’ve probably signed an online document without really questioning what was behind it. This is where Universign comes into play: it’s a platform that allows you to sign documents electronically in a legal and secure manner.
👉 Imagine that you need to sign a freelance contract with a client who lives at the other end of the country. Rather than struggling with printing, scanning, and emailing it back, you use Universign. In just a few clicks, your document is signed, authenticated, and legally valid.
Now you’re probably thinking: “OK, but how does it work?”
How does Universign work?
The principle is simple: Universign applies an electronic signature on a document, giving it legal value. But beware, it’s not just a copy-paste of your scanned signature on a PDF!
There are three levels of electronic signatures:
- Simple electronic signature: Basic, but not always sufficient for sensitive documents.
- Advanced signature: Enhanced identity verification and strong authentication. Ideal for contracts and official documents.
- Qualified signature: The digital equivalent of a handwritten signature before a notary. Ultra-secure and legally recognized throughout Europe.
Moreover, Universign does not just sign; it also timestamps documents, which proves that they have not been altered after signing.
Why choose Universign over another service?
There are tons of electronic signature services, so why choose Universign? Simple:
- Compliant with eIDAS: This means it adheres to European standards, which is a huge mark of trust.
- Easy to use: No need to be a computer expert, just a few clicks are enough.
- Ultra-secure: Encrypted data, signature certificates, strong authentication… in short, solid.
- Compatible with many tools: You can integrate it into your document management software, CRM, or ERP.
Universign in action: a concrete example
Let’s imagine that Sophie, an entrepreneur, needs to have a contractor sign a contract. Before, she would have:
- Drafted the contract in Word.
- Sent the document via email.
- Waited for the contractor to print, sign, and return it.
- Checked that everything was well signed.
With Universign, everything is done in a few minutes: Sophie uploads the contract to the platform, the contractor signs electronically, and everyone saves time.
Universign vs Paper: who wins?
| Criterion | Paper signature | Universign electronic signature |
|---|---|---|
| Time | Several days (printing, sending, receiving) | A few minutes |
| Security | Easily forgeable | Encryption and authentication |
| Cost | Printing, postage | No paper, no shipping |
| Ecological impact | Wasted paper | 100% digital |
The verdict is clear: the electronic signature beats paper on all fronts!
How to use Universign in 3 steps?
No need for a degree in cybersecurity to get started. Here’s how it works:
1️⃣ Upload your document to Universign.
2️⃣ Add the signers (you, your client, your boss, your banker… whoever you want).
3️⃣ One-click electronic signature, and the document is ready.
🎉 And there you go, it’s legal, secure, and validated!
How much does it cost?
Good question! Universign offers several options depending on your needs:
| Offer | Price | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| Free | €0 | Testing the platform |
| Pay-per-use | ~€1 per signature | Occasional use |
| Subscription | On quotation | Businesses and professionals |
💡 Tip: If you often sign documents, a subscription is more cost-effective.
User reviews: what do the pros think?
Many professionals have adopted Universign, and here’s what they say:
📢 Thomas, lawyer: “I no longer waste time printing and sending documents; everything is secure and legally recognized.”
📢 Julie, HR: “With Universign, I have hiring contracts signed in a few minutes, super convenient!”
📢 Marc, entrepreneur: “It’s easy, quick, and it also avoids wasting paper.”
Is Universign right for you?
If you work with documents that require a legal signature (contracts, estimates, agreements, etc.), Universign is a game changer. No more waiting; everything is done online, securely, and in just a few clicks.
If you want to try it, check out their website and test it for yourself. Once you’ve experienced it, you’ll find it impossible to go back!
