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 signatures, timestamping, and certifications, but with a light tone and real-world examples. Ready? Let’s go.
What is Universign exactly?
You’ve probably already signed a document online without really wondering what was behind it. That’s where Universign comes in: it’s a platform that allows you to electronically sign documents in a legal and secure way.
👉 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 go through Universign. In a few clicks, your document is signed, authenticated, and legally valid.
Now 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 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: Stringent 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, but 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
Imagine that Sophie, an entrepreneur, needs to have a contractor sign a contract. Before, she would have:
- Drafted the contract in Word.
- Emailed the document.
- Waited for the contractor to print, sign, and return.
- Verified that everything was signed correctly.
With Universign, everything is done in a few minutes: Sophie sends the contract to the platform, the contractor 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 forgeable | Encryption and authentication |
| Cost | Printing, postal delivery | No paper, no delivery |
| Ecological impact | Wasted paper | 100% digital |
The verdict is clear: electronic signature beats paper on all fronts!
How to use Universign in 3 steps?
You don’t need a cybersecurity degree to get started. Here’s how it works:
1️⃣ Download your document on Universign.
2️⃣ Add the signers (you, your client, your boss, your banker… whoever you want).
3️⃣ Electronic signature with 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 according to your needs:
| Offer | Price | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| Free | 0€ | Testing the platform |
| Paid per use | ~1€ per signature | Occasional use |
| Subscription | Quote based | Businesses and professionals |
💡 Tip: If you sign documents frequently, the subscription is more cost-effective.
Users’ opinions: 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 get employment contracts signed in minutes, super practical!”
📢 Marc, entrepreneur: “It’s easy, fast, and also saves paper waste.”
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 try it out, take a look at their site and try it for yourself. You’ll see, once you’ve tried it, it’s impossible to go back!
