Google launches beta version of electronic signature for Google Docs and Google Drive
Electronic signature (eSignature) is available for Google Workspace Individual subscribers without additional registration.
The new feature, which was previously in a limited alpha version, is designed for individual entrepreneurs and small businesses as a way to easily obtain and track digital signatures directly in a document – without printing, hand signing, scanning, or mailing.
Google will create a locked PDF file and send it to the specified recipients, and then it will be placed separately on the disk of the signatory and the author of the request.
“To simplify your workflow, we’re integrating eSignature into Google Docs, allowing you to request and add signatures to formal contracts directly in your documents,” the company writes.
Google plans to launch additional features for eSignature in the future:
- the ability to request a signature from multiple users;
- the ability to request an electronic signature from users who do not have Gmail;
- the ability to initiate an electronic signature on PDF files stored on the Disk;
- all completed contracts will automatically contain an audit trail report.
Alan Peltz-Sharp, founder and chief analyst at Deep Analysis, says that Google is simply leveling with the market:
“We have been talking about digital signatures becoming a separate feature for some time now. Box provides it as a standard, now Google. Over time, Dropbox and Microsoft will probably do the same, or at least offer an alternative to third-party options.”
Over the next 15 days, the company will introduce the new feature for free for select Workspace customers. Users of different groups can participate in beta testing if their administrators submit a request.
