If you are 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 signatures, timestamping, and certifications, but with a light tone and 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 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 emailing back, you use Universign. In just a few clicks, your document is signed, authenticated, and legally valid.
Right now, 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 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: Strong identity verification and 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.
Moreover, Universign doesn’t just sign, it also timestamps documents, proving they haven’t 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 meets 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 a lot of tools: You can integrate it into your document management software, CRM, or ERP.
Universign in action: a concrete example
Let’s say Sophie, an entrepreneur, needs to have a contract signed by a contractor. Before, she would have:
- Written the contract in Word.
- Sent the document by email.
- Waited for the contractor to print, sign, and return it.
- Checked that everything was properly signed.
With Universign, everything is done in just a few minutes: Sophie sends the contract on 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) | Just minutes |
| Security | Easy to forge | 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 counts!
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 to Universign.
2️⃣ Add the 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 depending on 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 frequently sign documents, the subscription is more cost-effective.
User reviews: what do 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 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 give it a try, check out their website and test it for yourself. You’ll see, once you’ve tasted it, you won’t be able to go back!
