If you are here, it’s because you want to understand what Universign is and how it works, without feeling like you are reading an old administrative law manual. Good news, you’re in the right place! We’re going to talk about electronic signatures, 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 asking yourself what was behind it. That’s where Universign comes into play: it is a platform that allows you to sign documents electronically in a legal and secure manner.
👉 Imagine you need to sign a freelance contract with a client who lives on the other side of the country. Instead of struggling with printing, scanning, and sending it back 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: “Okay, 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, this is not just a copy-paste of your scanned signature onto a PDF!
There are three levels of electronic signatures:
- Simple electronic signature: Basic, but not always sufficient for sensitive documents.
- Advanced signature: In-depth 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.
In addition, Universign not only signs, it also timestamps the documents, which proves that they have not been altered after the signature.
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, a few clicks are enough.
- Ultra-secure: Encrypted data, signature certificates, strong authentication… in short, solid stuff.
- 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 contract signed by a service provider. Before, 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) | Just minutes |
| Security | Easy to forge | Encryption and authentication |
| Cost | Printing, shipping costs | No paper, no shipping |
| Ecological 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 degree in cybersecurity to get started. Here’s how it works:
1️⃣ Upload your document to 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 based on your needs:
| Offer | Price | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| Free | 0€ | Test the platform |
| Pay-per-use | ~1€ per signature | Occasional use |
| Subscription | On quote | Companies and professionals |
💡 Tip: If you often sign documents, the 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 employment contracts signed in just a few minutes, super convenient!”
📢 Marc, entrepreneur: “It’s easy, quick, and on top of that, it prevents wasting paper.”
Is Universign 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 out, check out their website and test it for yourself. You’ll see, once you’ve tried it, it’s impossible to go back!