Mobile Electronic Signature Workflow via Hyperlink Application
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for obtaining electronic document signatures are inconvenient, time-consuming, and wasteful, especially when the signer and document preparer are at different locations, and existing solutions like Autograph have limitations in functionality and require a Wi-Fi network.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that sends a hyperlink and document attachment via electronic mail or text message to a mobile device, allowing the signer to download an application to electronically sign the document, which is then returned to the sender, with the ability to track signature status and manage multiple signers and documents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical documents are printed and manually signed, then signature authenticity is ensured, but travel time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of physical document handling (printing, manual signing, mailing) with an electronic system. Users can sign documents digitally using their mobile devices, eliminating the need to physically transport documents or travel to signing locations. The system maintains signature authenticity through electronic verification methods while removing the time-consuming physical exchange process.
2Ease of operation
If documents are faxed back and forth, then signature collection is enabled, but communication costs and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the document transmission and signature collection processes into a single electronic workflow. Instead of separate fax transmissions for document exchange and signature collection, the system combines these functions into one integrated electronic message that includes both the document and a digital signature capability, reducing the number of communication exchanges needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electronic messaging system as an intermediary between document sender and signer. This intermediary platform enables direct electronic document transfer and signature collection without requiring traditional fax machines or physical document handling, reducing communication costs and time.
3Loss of information
If multiple clients are coordinated manually, then signature tracking is possible, but accountant workload and confusion increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated feedback system that tracks and reports signature status. The system automatically monitors which clients have signed which documents and provides real-time updates to the accountant, eliminating manual tracking efforts. This feedback mechanism reduces coordination complexity by automating the information gathering and reporting process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the system to automatically manage signature tracking without requiring accountant intervention. The electronic messaging system self-monitors document delivery, signature completion, and returns documents automatically, freeing the accountant from manual coordination tasks while maintaining complete tracking of signature status across multiple clients.
Data Source
AI summary
Retrieving and sending electronic signatures. A document requiring a signature is sent in an electronic message such as an electronic mail or text message from a computing device of a sender to a mobile communication device of the signor. The signor selects or clicks on a hyperlink within the message to launch a browser on the mobile communication device and download an application to the mobile communication device. The application executes to allow the signor to touch a screen of the mobile communication device and generate a signature that is incorporated into the document and transmitted back to the sender. In certain embodiments, an electronic tax return is sent from a sender computer to a client mobile communication device, the signor generates a touch screen signature, and the signed tax return is transmitted to the sender for filing with a tax authority.