As consumers become more tech savvy, naturally they expect agents to keep
pace. For these consumers, sharing documents via mail or fax is antiquated. They
expect documents to be e-mailed to them for review and signatures.
Sending documents via traditional e-mail software or ZipForm’s e-mail feature
for review and signature is easy, as long as the proper disclosures are
included. Agents and brokers need to make federal e-commerce disclosures,
including procedures for consent to use electronic documents and signatures, the
process for withdrawal of such consent, system requirements and changes in
contact information, visit
www.wra.org/ecommerce.
This requirement adds a layer of complexity to the process.
Another option, ZipForm’s electronic signatures, simplifies the process by
providing e-mail functionality and the required disclosures in one package. The
feature is available for a fee and works with both versions of ZipForm, Online
and Desktop.
How do ZipForm’s electronic signatures work?
This process is similar to sending paper copies, just much quicker. When a
document is ready for delivery, you simply select File > Electronic Signatures
to print to a “document envelope” that was automatically added to your list of
printers during account setup. A series of screens will prompt you for the
party’s e-mail address, level of security desired, any additional non-ZipForm
documents to upload and where to place “sign here” sticky tabs. When an agent
sends an envelope, the party receives an e-mail to authenticate, review and sign
the documents using a unique “Electronic Signature Stamp” created by the
software. Prior to being able to do so, however, the party must agree to the use
of electronic documents and signatures, as well as receive the required
disclosures of the federal e-commerce law.
What do customers need?
Customers need only an e-mail account and Web browser access.
What is the cost?
Several subscription plans are available for purchase. Plans start at $12.95
per month, which includes 60 signer pages and 120 CC pages. Signer pages are
documents you send to people for signature. For example, the WB1 Residential
Listing Contract, which is four pages, counts as four signer pages. CC pages are
copies sent to other people involved in the process. Once a document is signed,
the people copied in the process receive an e-mail message with a link to the
completed document.
How do I set up an account?
An “electronic signatures” icon exists in both versions of ZipForm. When
selected, users create an account and then download a small application to their
system. Once an account is established, a printer named “Send in Docusign
Envelope” is added to your list of available printers. No other software is
needed.
Are there other benefits to ZipForm’s electronic signatures?
Yes. ZipForm’s electronic signature feature provides an electronic record of
a transaction thus eliminating the need to scan documents for storage. The
program also ensures accuracy in the signing process by eliminating missed
signatures. And finally, agents and other parties need no special software or
training.
For more information on ZipForm’s Electronic Signatures, including screen
snapshots of sending and signing documents,
visit
www.zipform.com/signit.
Published: 5/11/2007
