An electronic signature (eSignature) is a legally binding signature applied electronically, either via a signing platform (DocuSign, Adobe Sign) or through more advanced qualified electronic signatures. It replaces ink without weakening the contract's enforceability.
How an e-signature works
A procurement lead sends a supply agreement to a supplier's signatory through Vendortell's built-in e-signature. The signatory clicks the sign field, authenticates and applies the signature. The platform captures the identity, timestamp, IP address and audit trail into a tamper-evident certificate attached to the executed document. The signed PDF returns to both sides in seconds and enters the repository ready for reporting.
Three tiers of e-signature exist under eIDAS: simple, advanced and qualified. Simple covers click-to-sign; advanced adds identity verification; qualified relies on a certified issuer and carries the same legal weight as a handwritten signature. The tier chosen sets the standard of proof if the signature is ever challenged.
Where the e-signature appears in contracts
The e-signature is the last mechanical step of contract execution: the moment the final draft becomes a binding instrument. In the contract itself it appears as the signature block, the signing authority reference and any counterpart clause. Modern platforms embed the signature workflow so the executed document lands directly in the repository. The Vendortell platform ships e-signature natively, so contracts sign, file and start reporting against transactions from the same interface.
Electronic signature FAQ
Is an e-signature legally binding?
Yes. Under eIDAS and the ESIGN Act in the US, an electronic signature holds the same legal weight as an ink signature, provided the tier used matches the contract's evidentiary needs.
Do I need qualified e-signatures for every contract?
No. Simple or advanced e-signatures cover routine commercial contracts. Qualified signatures are reserved for high-value, high-risk or regulated agreements where the standard of proof needs to be highest.
Where is the audit trail stored?
Inside the signed document as a tamper-evident certificate, and mirrored in the signing platform's audit log. Both survive independent challenge in court.
