Word Processor Markup Module for Electronic Signature Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for obtaining electronic signatures require multiple interactions with distinct applications and services, limiting user convenience and functionality, as users must prepare documents in a word processing application, upload them, and then interact with an electronic signature service separately, with no ability to edit the document once uploaded and limited self-signing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A code module, or 'markup module,' within a word processing application allows users to add signature tags and recipient information, which are then transmitted to a digital transaction service (DTS) to prepare a non-editable document for signature, enabling seamless electronic signature collection and storage without requiring additional editing or separate self-signing interactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the user prepares the document in a word processing application and then uploads it to an electronic signature service, then the document can be signed electronically, but the user must interact with two distinct applications and cannot edit the document once uploaded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the word processing application and electronic signature service into a single integrated application. The markup module allows users to prepare documents with signature fields directly in the word processor, eliminating the need to upload to a separate service. This merging resolves the contradiction by maintaining electronic signature capability while reducing user interaction complexity to a single application interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated application performs multiple functions: word processing, document preparation, and electronic signature collection within a single system. The markup module provides universal functionality that works across different document types and signature scenarios, allowing the same application to handle both document creation and signature collection without requiring separate tools.
2Reliability
If the document is uploaded to the electronic signature service, then the signature process can begin, but the document cannot be edited once uploaded requiring a complete re-upload process
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts document editability based on the signing process state. During document preparation, the document remains fully editable in the word processing application. Once the signature collection process begins, the document is locked to maintain integrity. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction by allowing edits during preparation while ensuring integrity during signing, eliminating the need for time-consuming re-uploads.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by setting up signature fields and preparing the document for signature while it is still in the editable word processing application. The markup module allows users to configure all signature parameters, recipient information, and document settings before finalizing the signature process. This preliminary configuration resolves the contradiction by establishing document integrity controls in advance, allowing later edits without requiring complete re-uploads.
3Reliability
If the user sets up the signing ceremony with the electronic signature service, then the signing party can sign, but the user cannot sign the document himself during the setup process
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service functionality where the user can sign their own document during the setup process. The markup module detects when the user is both the document owner and a signing party, and automatically provides a signing interface within the same application. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining security through controlled self-signing while providing the adaptability needed for users to sign their own documents without requiring a separate ceremony setup.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for obtaining electronic signatures via word processing applications are described. One approach utilizes a code module, also referred to as a “markup module,” that executes within a word processing application and that facilitates the preparation of a document for electronic signature. A user can operate the word processing application together with the markup module in order to add signature tag markers to the document and to provide recipient information about intended signers, such as names and email addresses. Once the document has been prepared, the code module transmits the document (including the added signature tag markers) and the recipient information to a digital transaction service. The digital transaction service then manages the signing of the document, such as by notifying the recipient, receiving the recipient's signature and securely storing the signature in association with the document.