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 get started.
What exactly is Universign?
You’ve probably signed a document online without really questioning what was behind it. That’s where Universign comes in: 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 printing, scanning, and emailing back, you use Universign. With a few clicks, your document is signed, authenticated, and legally valid.
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 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, proving that 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: Meaning it complies with 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… 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 say Sophie, an entrepreneur, needs to have a contract signed by a service provider. Before, she would have:
- Drafted the contract in Word.
- Sent the document by email.
- Waited for the provider to print, sign, and return.
- Checked that everything was properly signed.
With Universign, everything is done in a few minutes: Sophie sends the contract to the platform, the provider electronically signs, 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 falsifiable | Encryption and authentication |
| Cost | Printing, postal sending | No paper, no sending |
| Ecological impact | Wasted paper | 100% digital |
The verdict is clear: electronic signature crushes paper on all fronts!
How to use Universign in 3 steps?
No need for a cybersecurity degree to get started. Here’s how it works:
1️⃣ Download your document on Universign.
2️⃣ Add the signatories (you, your client, your boss, your banker… whoever you want).
3️⃣ Electronic signature with a single click, and the document is ready.
🎉 And there you have it, it’s legal, secure, and validated!
How much does it cost?
Good question! Universign offers various options according to your needs:
| Offer | Price | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| Free | €0 | Testing the platform |
| Pay per use | ~€1 per signature | Occasional use |
| Subscription | Quote-based | Businesses and professionals |
💡 Tip: If you frequently sign documents, the subscription is more cost-effective.
User reviews: what do professionals 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 sign employment contracts in a few minutes, super practical!”
📢 Marc, entrepreneur: “It’s easy, fast, and it also avoids 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 a few clicks.
If you want to give it a try, take a look at their website and try it for yourself. You’ll see, once you’ve tried it, you can’t go back!
