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 will talk about electronic signatures, timestamping, and certifications, but in a light tone with concrete examples. Ready? Let’s go.
What exactly is Universign?
You’ve probably already signed a document online without really questioning what was behind it. That’s where Universign comes into play: it’s a platform that allows you to sign documents electronically in a legal and secure manner.
👉 Imagine you have to sign a freelance contract with a client who lives on the other side of the country. Instead of struggling with a print, a scan, and a return by email, you go through Universign. In just a few clicks, your document is signed, authenticated, and legally valid.
At this point, you’re probably thinking, “OK, but how does it work?”
How does Universign work?
The principle is simple: Universign applies an electronic signature to a document, giving it legal value. But be careful, 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: Strong identity verification and strong authentication. Ideal for contracts and official documents.
- Qualified signature: The digital equivalent of a handwritten signature in front of a notary. Ultra-secure and legally recognized throughout Europe.
Additionally, Universign does not just sign; it also timestamp documents, which proves they have not been modified 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 meets European standards, which is a huge trust factor.
- Easy to use: No need to be a computer expert; a few clicks are enough.
- Ultra-secure: Encrypted data, signature certificates, strong authentication… in short, it’s solid.
- Compatible with lots of 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 contract signed by a service provider. Previously, she would have:
- Written the contract in Word.
- Sent the document by email.
- Waited for the service provider to print, sign, and return it.
- Checked that everything was properly signed.
With Universign, everything is done in a few minutes: Sophie uploads the contract to the platform, the service provider signs electronically, and everyone saves time.
Universign vs Paper: who wins?
| Criteria | 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 sending |
| Environmental impact | Wasted paper | 100% digital |
The verdict is clear: the electronic signature crushes paper on all points!
How to use Universign in 3 steps?
No need for a cybersecurity degree to get started. Here’s how it works:
1️⃣ Upload your document on Universign.
2️⃣ Add signers (you, your client, your boss, your banker… whoever you want).
3️⃣ Electronic signature in one click, 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 according to your needs:
| Offer | Price | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| Free | 0€ | Testing the platform |
| Pay-per-use | ~1€ per signature | Occasional use |
| Subscription | On quote | 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 get hiring contracts signed in minutes, super convenient!”
📢 Marc, entrepreneur: “It’s easy, fast, and it also helps avoid wasting paper.”
Is Universign right for you?
If you work with documents that require a legal signature (contracts, quotes, 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, take a look at their site and test it for yourself. You’ll see, once you try it, it’s impossible to go back!
