Docusign eSignature
Electronically send and collect signatures on documents that need to be signed by one or several people.
You only need a Docusign licence if you're sending documents that need to be signed by external signatories. Recipients of Docusign documents don't need a licence to sign them.
Key features
- Documents sent through Docusign can be signed from anywhere, using nearly any device with an internet connection.
- Collaborative tools are available so users can share and comment on Docusign documents.
Access instructions
Docusign access is only available to licensed users.
If your request is approved, you'll receive access instructions to your email address.
Available to staff (restrictions apply)
Authorised users can use this service on University-managed and personal devices.
Web-based
This service works in your web browser.
Funded by the University
There isn’t a cost to you for standard use.
Additional information
We have a small number of Docusign licences available. For internal signatures, for example expenses or approvals, you should use one of the alternative tools.
We are not able to give Docusign licences to all use cases, even when requiring external signatures. When allocating licences we take into account the following:
- Job role priority
Staff members whose job roles require frequent use of electronic signatures from external signatories as an essential part of their duties will be given priority access to Docusign accounts. - Project-based access
Staff members working on projects that require significant document signing and management may be granted temporary access to Docusign for the duration of the project. - Duration of access
Access to Docusign may be granted on a temporary basis, with licences rotating among staff members based on operational needs and usage patterns, subject to agreement with IT Services. - Monitoring and review
The usage of Docusign accounts will be periodically monitored and reviewed to ensure compliance with eligibility criteria and optimise licence allocation.
For internal signatures, for example expenses or approvals, you should use one of these tools.
We are not able to give Docusign licences to all use cases, even when requiring external signatures, so you should consider these tools before requesting a licence.
- Google eSignatures (part of Google Workspace)
Documents can be safely shared and managed, and version history ensures clarity on who has edited (or signed) which section. - ABBYY FineReader
A PDF editing tool which can be used to add signatures to PDFs where a workflow of the approvals is not required.
Access instructions
Docusign access is only available to licensed users.
If your request is approved, you'll receive access instructions to your email address.
Guides and help
How-to guides and set up
- How to send a document for signature (docusign.com)
- How to change your signature (docusign.com)
- Support Center (docusign.com)
Training and best practice
- Docusign University training resources (docusign.com)
Accessibility
Docusign's key accessibility features include:
- ensures that document text and tags can be read by assistive technology tools like screen readers
- provides easy navigation that allows users to skip past content with proper headings
- has keyboard shortcuts for form figures and tablets, to improve navigation for screen readers.
View accessibility reports (docusign.com).
Contact for support
If you're experiencing technical issues and need advice, please contact IT Services.
Service commitments
We have a limited number of licences available for Docusign. Licences will be prioritised and assigned based on our Docusign eSignature terms of use. We cannot guarantee you will be able to use Docusign.
- Account security: You are responsible for maintaining the security of your Docusign account credentials, including your username and password. Do not share your account information with anyone else.
- Authorised use: Docusign eSignature is to be used solely for facilitating the electronic signing and management of documents related to official University of York business.
- Confidentiality and data security:
- Treat all documents processed through Docusign as confidential and sensitive information. Do not disclose or share documents with unauthorised individuals or entities.
- You are responsible for securely storing any signed documents that are necessary for your records. Documents should be accessible to others who may need access, including after you have left the organisation.
- Duration of access: You are responsible for informing IT Services if you no longer require a Docusign account. Complete the Docusign licence request form to inform IT Services you no longer require a licence.
The following policies apply to all IT services provided by the University.
Availability
- This is a live service, available 24/7.
Support
- This service is managed by a third party.
- They are responsible for monitoring, identifying and fixing faults.
- Support is available from the Docusign Support Center (docusign.com).
Standards
- Our service performance and standards have been produced in consultation with our customers. We regularly monitor the delivery, performance and availability of facilities and services.
We appreciate feedback as it helps us review and continually improve our service.
Page last reviewed: 9 September 2024