Overview
Acrobat allows for two types of signature, electronic and written.
Electronic signatures include typed input, image upload, drawn on a touch device, and digital signature certificates. Electronic signatures are the easiest option, containing all of the activity within the electronic device, be it a desktop computer, tablet, or phone.
Written signatures require the recipient to download the document, print it, physically sign it, scan it, and then upload it back to Acrobat Sign. While this process creates more friction for the signer, some use cases demand it. The process is well documented in the electronic interface for the signer, providing them with a complete understanding of how to complete the process.
All accounts are configured to use electronic signatures by default, but if your work process demands a written signature, that option is available.
If only one signature type is enabled for the group, then the option to select a signature type is hidden on the Send page. Both options must be enabled for the option to be exposed and selectable for senders.
Configuration
Availability:
The option to configure signature types is available for enterprise license plans.
Team and individual license plans have only electronic signatures enabled for sending agreements.
Configuration scope:
The feature can be enabled at the account and group levels.
The controls for this feature can be assessed by navigating to Account Settings > Send Settings > Allowed Signature Types
Recipients that are signing with an electronic signature are presented with a signature panel that includes options for how their signature can be captured.
The methods that are available to the signer depend on a different set of controls.
Signers expected to sign with a written signature are prompted to fill in any field-level data first and then download the document for signature.
The downloaded document contains all of the field data entered, so the signer only needs to apply their written signature.
Once complete, the signer must convert the physical document back into a PDF and upload it to Acrobat Sign, completing their signature process.
If the options to send agreements for both written or electronic signatures are enabled, a radio button is added to the Send page options, providing a method for senders to select their signature type.
Electronic signature is always the default.
When only one signature type is enabled, the radio button is removed from the Send page interface.
