Chasing physical signatures is rapidly becoming obsolete. According to a survey, eSignatures save an average of $36 per contract, reducing costs and improving employee productivity.
This new wave of online PDF signatures is powered by e-signature APIs that function as digital bridges connecting your existing software with a robust e-signature platform like Lumin Sign. But how does one employ this effective document-signing tool?
This article will discuss the setup process and show how Lumin Sign enables you to automate tasks, leverage templates, and integrate with your existing tools. Read on.
Understanding E-Signature APIs
eSign APIs enable the integration of e-signatures in documents. You can simplify your document workflows – sign your contracts and approvals instantly. But what exactly is an esign API?
Definition and key features of e-signature APIs
An eSignature API is a particular type of API used to create eSignatures on documents by communicating with a signature system. They act as digital bridge builders, connecting your existing software with an efficient e-signature platform like Lumin Sign. Lumin Sign’s e-signature API is a translator that enables your existing software (like CRM or project management tools) to send documents for e-signatures without leaving your familiar interface.
Key features of e-signature APIs
Here are the core features to consider:
- Effortless Integration: Ripping or replacing your current software is unnecessary. The API integrates effectively to leverage e-signatures within your existing workflows.
- Automated Workflows: You can set up automated triggers within your software. For example, an invoice generated in your accounting system can automatically trigger an e-signature request via the API. This saves you time and ensures a faster payment cycle.
- Simplified Tracking: The API updates who has inserted a signature in PDFs, who hasn’t, and where your documents are in the workflow, eliminating the need for manual check-ins and follow-ups.
Preparation and Setup
To enjoy the perks of e-signing, ensure a smooth setup process. Here’s how to select the perfect e-signature API to fit your specific needs:
Selecting the right e-signature API for your needs
Before getting the correct e-sign API as a workflow-boosting power, a little preparation goes a long way. Let’s see the steps to guide you through selecting the right tool.
Evaluating features and functionality
Here’s how to evaluate features and functionality:
- Identify Your Needs: What documents do you need to be signed electronically? Are there specific workflows for inserting electronic signatures in PDFs you want to automate (e.g., internal approvals, customer agreements)? Understanding your requirements helps narrow down your options.
- Feature Comparison: Select an API with secure document storage, signer authentication, and detailed audit trails. Compare these features to your needs. Does the API integrate with your existing software?
- Ease of Use: Prioritize a tool with a user-friendly experience. Also, look for one with available support resources.
- Security: Ensure the eSign API adheres to industry-standard security protocols to protect sensitive documents while signing.
- Scalability: Consider your future growth. Choose a tool that can scale with your business needs, accommodating increasing volumes of online signatures in PDFs.
- Pricing: Choose a tool like Lumin Sign that offers flexible plans to suit your business size and signing volume.
Integrating E-Signature APIs into Your Workflow
Now that you’ve chosen the ideal e-signature let’s see the integration process, step-by-step.
Choosing the Right Programming Language or Platform
Choose a versatile API, like Lumin Sign, that supports popular languages like Python, Java, and C#. It also offers pre-built integrations with popular platforms to eliminate the need for custom coding. With just a few clicks, this lets you leverage e-signatures within your familiar software.
Implementing the Necessary API Calls
While the technical details might seem like a hurdle, Lumin Sign simplifies the process. Here are some essential API calls to streamline your workflows:
- Authentication and Access Tokens: This initial step establishes a secure connection between your software and Lumin Sign’s API. It is similar to showing your ID to enter a secure building. This tool provides clear instructions on obtaining the necessary access tokens.
- Uploading Documents for E-Signature: This call allows you to upload documents, including contracts, NDAs, or proposals, directly from your software for the signing process. You can also learn how to delete digital signatures in PDF.
- Defining Signature Fields and Positions: This lets you specify where the document’s signatures, initials, or dates must be. This ensures a precise and professional signing experience.
- Sending Documents for Signature: With everything set up, this call initiates the process of electronic signatures in PDF. Your designated signers receive a secure link to access and sign the document.
- Tracking Document Status and Retrieving Signed Documents: No more chasing signatures. The API call allows you to monitor the signing progress. You can see who has signed and who hasn’t, and even download the fully signed document once complete.
Enhancing Workflow Efficiency
E-signature APIs go beyond essential integration – they enable you to automate tasks, leverage templates, and connect effectively with other tools. This transforms your document workflows into a productivity powerhouse.
Automating Document Preparation and Sending
Lumin Sign’s API allows you to automate document preparation and sending, freeing up your team’s valuable time. Here’s how:
- Trigger-based Automation: Connect Lumin Sign’s API with your existing software (like CRMs or project management tools). Set up triggers so specific actions automatically initiate the e-signature process. For example, an approved financial quote in your CRM can automatically trigger sending a contract for an online loan signature.
- Pre-filled Templates: Create templates for documents you use often, such as NDAs or service agreements. These templates can automatically upload the required customer information from your CRM.
Creating Templates for Frequently Used Documents
Stop reinventing the wheel. Leverage Lumin Sign’s API to create templates for your most frequently used documents. These pre-built templates save you time, ensure consistency, and provide a professional look. You can maintain consistent branding and legal language across all your agreements using pre-approved templates. This reduces errors and provides a professional presentation.
Integrating E-Signature APIs with Other Tools (e.g., CRM, ERP, Document Management Systems)
Lumin Sign’s API plays well with others, integrating with your existing CRM, ERP, or document management systems. You can automate purchase orders or invoices, expedite approvals, and streamline your financial processes by integrating e-signatures with your ERP system.
You can also draw signatures online in contracts within your CRM and automatically store them in the relevant client file. This eliminates manual data entry and keeps all signed documents organized within your CRM.
Conclusion
E-signature APIs simplify document workflows and boost productivity. So, choose a reliable tool like Lumin Sign that prioritizes security, ensuring your sensitive documents are protected with industry-standard encryption and secure e-signatures. This peace of mind lets you focus on what matters most – growing your business. So, start today with Lumin Sign to discover how to create digital signatures in PDFs effectively.
