The rise of technology has revolutionized the way we work and interact with each other, especially in the business landscape. As the workforce evolves, the use of digital tools has become a norm, and the new generation of employees, specifically millennials and Gen Z, are leading the charge. These tech-savvy employees are utilizing digital tools to drive productivity, efficiency, and growth in the workplace.

One such digital tool that has transformed the way businesses operate is electronic signatures or eSignatures. The ability to sign documents digitally has streamlined business agreements and created new opportunities for growth. However, the question remains: which generation will be the primary driver of e-signature adoption in the workplace?

In this blog, we'll examine whether millennials or Gen Z are more likely to embrace eSignatures and shape the future of business agreements. We'll explore the characteristics and preferences of each group to determine which generation is better suited to lead the charge. So, let's dive in and explore the e-signature market!

The Generational Shift 

As the nature of work continues to evolve, so do the expectations of each generation entering the workforce. To harness the full potential of these generations, companies must understand and anticipate their needs. Let's take a closer look at the two generations currently in the workforce.

• Millennials – The millennials or Gen Y are one of the largest groups to enter the workforce after experiencing the evolution of the internet. Having gone from dial-up to broadband speeds, they recognize the value of convenience and efficiency. As reported by CommBox, 71% of millennials expect businesses to prioritize their time. They are always looking for ways to become more productive and rely heavily on technology to streamline their work processes.

• Zoomers – The zoomers or Gen Z are the latest generations to enter the workforce. As digital natives, they are comfortable working with the latest technologies and rely on digital channels to make crucial decisions. This generation is adept at capitalizing on the opportunities opened up by globalization and prioritizes transparency and trust in the workplace. Companies must consider these characteristics to keep up with this new generation of employees.

Culture Shock 

Organizational culture can be challenging to change, especially when it comes to legacy technologies. Here's how the different generations approach it:

Millennials place a higher emphasis on company culture and a sense of purpose and belonging in the workplace. Contrary to popular belief, they aren't easily distracted by technology but, rather, use it to maximize efficiency and productivity.

By 2025, millennials will make up an estimated 75% of the global workforce, according to a report by Deloitte.

On the other hand, zoomers are comfortable with new working styles such as remote work, gig economy, and flexible career paths. Having grown up in the digital era, they are adept at learning new systems and customizing them to fit the organizational culture.

In the United States alone, members of Gen Z entering the workforce make up around 25% of the population, according to a report by Pew Research Center.

What is the impact of flexible working?

Flexible working practices have become crucial for today's employees, who prioritize work-life balance and the ability to work remotely. Here's how it affects different generations:

• Millennials – are open to flexible working practices that allow them to be productive while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Businesses that support work-life integration and offer flexible working can attract millennials, especially those who are working parents. Flexi-work allows them to enjoy the benefits of reduced working hours, flexible shifts, and incentives for overtime. Additionally, their focus on upskilling and gaining new experiences instead of climbing the corporate hierarchy makes them valuable to digitally-forward organizations.

In fact, a report by Flexi jobs found that 40% of millennials with children prefer flexible working arrangements.

• Zoomers – Similarly, zoomers are big on flexi-work, especially after their experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. They prefer to work remotely and consider work-life balance to be a key factor in their job search. As digital natives, they can leverage the power of digital tools to be highly efficient at work. Moreover, a flexible approach to work can help companies stay lean while delivering on their client promises.

In summary, flexible working plays a vital role in attracting and retaining top talent, especially millennials and zoomers who prioritize work-life balance and the ability to work remotely. Companies that offer flexible working arrangements can not only boost employee satisfaction but also gain a competitive advantage in today's job market.

The Case for Electronic Signatures

The increasing adoption of virtual signatures in the workplace represents a significant shift towards a more efficient and streamlined way of doing business. Electronic signatures enable employees to complete important tasks from anywhere and on any device, improving the overall employee experience. Online digital signatures not only help organizations save time and resources, but they also provide a more convenient and user-friendly experience for employees

Also Read: How 2FA & eSignatures Protect Digital Documents

Benefits of eSignatures 

In today's fast-paced business world, electronic signatures offer a reliable solution for organizations seeking to rapidly expand their operations. By eliminating the need for paper-based transactions and manual processing, electronic signatures help businesses save time and resources while increasing efficiency and productivity. Here are its benefits:

• High Processing Speed – Electronic signatures considerably improve internal operations' processing speed. Since agreements are digital-based, current employees can proofread documents and reduce the margin of error.If there are any errors, employees can rectify them immediately without the need for continuous printing.

• Low Operational Expenses – Companies will be able to cut down on operational costs by switching to digital documents. Crucial documents can be stored and managed virtually on the cloud.

• Paperless Trails – Electronic signatures can provide transparency to communications and ensure goals are met. Project stakeholders can be accountable for their targets and provide their approval digitally.

• Advanced Security – Electronic signatures provide advanced security to digital documents. Since companies safeguard their data, this solution employs two-factor authentication and other security verification methods to keep malicious actors away.

• Legally Enforceable – Electronic signature solutions comply with the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA) and the E-Sign Act. It means that documents signed via eSignatures are valid in a court of law.

Why DrySign? 

DrySign is a trusted digital signature maker that enables users to easily create and apply their digital signatures to electronic documents. With just a single click, users can provide their consent and sign documents from anywhere, at any time. DrySign is committed to adhering to international eSignature laws and regulations, ensuring that its users have access to a reliable, secure, and flexible platform for signing and managing their documents.

In conclusion, understanding the differences in how each generation views productivity is essential for businesses to thrive in the digital age. With the help of digital technologies, collaboration and productivity can be enhanced across different age groups. Electronic signatures are a powerful tool that can streamline processes and improve efficiency for all generations. DrySign, a trusted digital signature maker, offers a simple and compliant solution for users to provide their consent on electronic documents with just a single click. It is a tool that can help businesses scale rapidly and unlock the potential of their workspace. So, whether you are a millennial or a zoomer, DrySign can help you streamline your work processes and achieve your organizational goals. Unlock the potential of your workspace with DrySign

Have more questions? Click here for digital signature FAQs.

Source: forbes.com

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for general information purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice. Laws governing the subject matter may change quickly, and Exela cannot guarantee that all the information on this site is current or correct. Should you have specific legal questions about any of the information on this site, you should consult with a licensed attorney in your area.

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Over the years, the role of the Human Resources (HR) department has undergone a significant transformation. In addition to recruiting and onboarding new employees, HR professionals now also handle employee benefits and ensure compliance with labor laws and regulations - all critical components to an organization's success.

However, with the rise of digital technologies, the HR landscape is rapidly changing. Incorporating digital tools in HR processes can help manage work more efficiently and effectively. These tools include applicant tracking systems, payroll software, employee engagement applications, and performance management platforms. This blog highlights various digital tools that can streamline your HR processes and help your department stay ahead of the curve.

What are digital HR tools? 

1. Employee information system

   Implementing a centralized employee information system can streamline your human resources department and improve overall efficiency. In addition, this system allows you to consolidate all employee data into a single location, reducing the risk of lost data or manual entry errors. Once uploaded, the system automatically checks and balances the data, providing greater accuracy and reliability. Additionally, routine backups of the system ensure data security and preservation. Investing in an employee information system can help streamline your HR processes and save valuable time and resources.

2. Talent management

   Hiring is expensive! And yet, many organizations recruit new staff frequently for many reasons, such as employee resignations, skills gaps, compensation issues, etc. Using HR software enables human resource departments and hiring managers to set clear goals for what they expect from a candidate to avoid misunderstandings. The software also allows hiring managers to monitor the application and interview process closely in real-time to prevent future disputes.

3. E-signature solution

   With thousands of employees and hundreds of teams working from different locations, organizations find it challenging to manage documentation. A vast majority of business processes rely on paper to complete the documentation, which not only consumes more time but also accounts for higher costs and ineffectiveness. On the other hand, online signature makers streamline document workflows, eliminating redundant and time-consuming tasks and reducing costs associated with paper-based processes. DrySign, one of the leading e-signature solutions, provides 128-bit secure eSignatures that comply with e-signature laws, such as Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce (ESIGN) Act and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA).

4. Applicant tracking

   Applicant tracking software gives businesses a real-time, 360-degree view of their talent acquisition process. By utilizing a more personalized and multichannel approach, organizations can effectively hire the right candidates at the right time. This software enables companies to create a highly collaborative interview process that is accessible on any device. By streamlining the hiring process, businesses can reduce time-to-hire and improve the overall candidate experience, giving them a competitive advantage in today's job market by improving recruitment efficiency.

5. Employee onboarding

   Employee onboarding is a critical component of the hiring process, as it can be overwhelming for new hires to transition into their new roles. Fortunately, employee onboarding applications provide a smooth and efficient onboarding experience, making the process as seamless as possible. With this tool, employees can access all the necessary resources they need to get started with the job - company policies, training modules, benefits information, and more. In addition, human resource teams can send all necessary forms digitally, enabling new hires to finish the onboarding process effortlessly. In a nutshell, employee onboarding tools help hiring managers provide an elevated onboarding experience to new hires, making them feel empowered and supported from day one.

Also Read: Electronic Signatures: Simplifying Operations for HR Staffing Firms

6. Employee offboarding

   When an employee exits an organization, ensuring a smooth and positive offboarding process is crucial. Employee offboarding tools help companies wrap up loose ends, transition responsibilities, and ensure the departing employee feels valued and appreciated. HR professionals can use offboarding applications to process and record employee terminations, conduct exit interviews, and manage company assets. The finance department can delist departing employees from the payroll database and handle final payments. Additionally, managers can oversee the handover of company assets, ensuring that nothing is lost or overlooked. In summary, employee offboarding tools can help companies maintain positive relationships with departing employees while also streamlining the offboarding process.

7. Timesheet management

   Tracking employee time and attendance is a critical component of workforce management. Accurate and timely timesheet management is essential for various reasons – from ensuring compliance with labor laws to accurately billing clients for services rendered. Yet, despite its importance, timesheet management can be a challenging and time-consuming task.

   Timesheet management software solutions are designed to automate and streamline the process of tracking employee time and attendance, making it easier for organizations to manage their workforce more effectively.

   However, timesheet management applications are not a one-size-fits-all solution. The right application for your organization will depend on various factors, such as the size of your workforce, the industry, and your business needs. Imagine cutting down on countless hours your managers spend going through employee timesheets and verifying working hours – it can be a lifesaver.

8. Time-off management

   Approving employee time off can be cumbersome if your organization still relies on paper-based processes. For instance, you can quickly lose the time off requests that come to your desk on paper. Likewise, losing track is easier if you manage the time-off summary through emails. On the other hand, an automated leave management system enables you to streamline the time off requests on a priority basis, keep track of the process, and approve or decline them on time. Moreover, you can also verify if the employee has enough leave balance to qualify for leave.

9. Training management

   Effective training is a critical component of any organization's success. From instructing new employees to developing the skills of existing staff, training helps ensure employees have the knowledge and tools they need to do their jobs well. However, managing training can be complex and time-consuming, especially for organizations with large workforces or those located at multiple sites. Training management applications automate and streamline the process of managing employee training, making it easier for organizations to ensure that their employees have the skills they need to succeed. These applications keep employees engaged and motivated with dynamic training programs that cater to their unique performance trends. Organizations can also gather constructive feedback from trainees to analyze and measure the effectiveness of their training programs.

10. Attendance management

    Attendance management is a critical component of workforce management. It involves tracking employee attendance, managing leave requests, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and company policies. However, manual attendance management processes are exceptionally time-consuming and prone to errors, particularly for organizations with large workforces. Attendance management applications automate and streamline employee attendance, making it easier for organizations to track employee time and attendance and manage their workforce effectively. These applications help organizations avoid human errors and data loss by easily integrating with biometric devices, payroll systems, and physical time clocks. In addition, attendance management systems allow businesses to configure unique time schedules, workweeks, week-offs, and holiday lists depending on their business requirements.

11. Performance management system

    Performance management is crucial for the growth of any organization. However, updating employee performance reviews can be time-consuming and tedious for HR managers. Neglecting this task can hinder an organization's growth. A performance management system can help streamline the process by creating feedback forms, analyzing employee behavior, monitoring what works best for their teams, and developing new strategies to help employees thrive in the workplace. By leveraging a performance management system, decision-makers can gain insights into what works well and identify areas for improvement, leading to a more productive and engaged workforce.

12. Employee self-service

    Today, employees expect organizations to be transparent in sharing employment data with them. Employee self-service applications offer intuitive, self-service capabilities to organizations, enabling them to organize, engage, and satisfy the digital needs of their global workforce with ease. This self-service tool streamlines various tasks, including training, networking, and organizational charting, making it easier for both employees and employers to manage work-related activities.

Conclusion 

Using digital tools in HR can improve efficiency, accuracy, and employee satisfaction. With the adoption of these tools, HR departments can better manage talent, develop skills, and create a more positive workplace culture. The rapid adoption of digital applications has transformed how HR departments function, making them more efficient and effective in supporting the organization's goals. As we evolve in the digital age, HR departments must stay updated with the latest tools and technologies to remain competitive and successfully manage talent.

E-signatures are one such technology that have been helping several businesses manage their documentation and streamline workflows. DrySign, a market leader in e-signature technology, offers a range of intelligent features and benefits to help businesses save costs and time and streamline document workflows. If you need help finding a perfect solution unique to your business needs, talk to our experts. Start DrySigning today!

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for general information purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice. Laws governing the subject matter may change quickly, and Exela cannot guarantee that all the information on this site is current or correct. Should you have specific legal questions about any of the information on this site, you should consult with a licensed attorney in your area.

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eHealth, or electronic health, refers to the use of digital technology to improve healthcare services, such as electronic health records (EHRs), telemedicine, mobile health, and health information exchange. In the U.S., eHealth has been an area of growing interest and investment in recent years.

There have been several initiatives at the federal level to promote the adoption of eHealth in the U.S. For example, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) was established in 2004 to lead the nation's efforts to implement and use health information technology. The ONC has played a critical role in promoting the adoption of electronic health records by healthcare providers and supporting the development of health information exchange networks that enable the sharing of health data among different healthcare organizations.

In addition to federal initiatives, many states have also implemented their own eHealth initiatives. For example, some states have implemented telemedicine programs to provide remote healthcare services to patients, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Other states have established health information exchange networks to enable healthcare providers to share patient data more efficiently and effectively.

Many private companies are also involved in the eHealth industry in the US, including startups developing innovative technologies and established companies providing EHRs and other digital health solutions.

According to a report by Mordor Intelligence, the global eHealth market size was valued at USD 123.22 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach USD 246.82 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 13.67% during the forecast period.

Overall, eHealth has the potential to improve the quality, safety, and efficiency of healthcare services in the US, and it will likely continue to be an area of focus and investment in the coming years. However, there are also challenges associated with the adoption of eHealth technologies, including concerns around data privacy and security, as well as the need for healthcare providers to adapt their workflows and processes to incorporate new technologies.

What is the objective of digital health? 

Healthcare informatics management (HIM) in the U.S. involves using technology to manage, analyze, and share health information to improve patient care, enhance operational efficiency, and reduce costs. It encompasses a range of activities, including electronic health records (EHR) management, clinical decision support, data analysis, telemedicine, and health information exchange. It can provide value-based care to patients by identifying at-risk populations and reducing the duration of hospital stays. In addition, it can be a valuable arsenal in healthcare organizations to curb unnecessary expenses.

Major factors driving the need for HIM include improving healthcare quality and outcomes, increasing patient safety, and reducing healthcare costs. The federal government has also played a significant role in promoting the adoption of healthcare informatics through initiatives like the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act.

Electronic signatures (eSignatures) play a critical role in HIM by streamlining administrative processes and improving patient care. eSignatures are an important aspect of HIM, enabling healthcare organizations to securely and efficiently capture signatures, authenticate users, and track document workflows. By using e-signatures, hospitals and clinics can reduce turnaround times for signature-dependent documents, speed up revenue cycle management, and enhance the patient experience by allowing them to sign documents electronically from anywhere, at any time.

Healthcare informatics management has become increasingly important in the U.S. healthcare industry as technology is critical in improving patient care and reducing costs. As healthcare organizations continue to invest in technology, healthcare informatics management professionals will play a key role in ensuring these tools' effective and efficient use to achieve organizational goals.

What is the use of digital signatures in healthcare? 

Electronic signatures are prime solutions for centralizing contracts for easier management. Contract management can help organizations in saving resources and identify new opportunities. eSignatures can accelerate the signature process in an agreement or contract. Some contracts that can benefit from the incorporation of an eSignature are:

•  Joint venture contracts
•  Equipment agreements,
•  Physician employment contracts,
•  Care transfer agreements,
•  Compensation and benefits documents,
•  Managed services contracts,
•  Physician recruitment contracts,
•  Medical director contracts,
•  Consent Forms,
•  Medical technology usage agreements.

Also Read: Digital Signatures: Elevating the Healthcare Experience

The Case for Electronic Signatures 

An electronic signature is a legal method of gaining approval on contracts or forms. They are essential in managing a seamless digital document workflow and streamlining various healthcare processes. As the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated shifting to digital tools, eSignatures have become crucial for healthcare organizations.

A case study by the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) found that implementing eSignatures in their surgical consent process reduced the average time for completing and filing consent forms by 75%, from 4 days to 1 day.

With the need for creating an integrated healthcare system to provide a seamless patient experience to strengthen the security of enterprises, eSignatures are a valuable tool. Here are its benefits:

Benefits of eSignatures 

Electronic signatures are a much-needed tool in the healthcare industry. They are used to sign essential forms in the sector, such as prescription forms, diagnostic results, etc. Here are its benefits:

•  Streamlined Documentation - E-signatures eliminate the need for physical signatures on various forms and documents related to healthcare, such as prescription orders, patient consent forms, and others. This significantly reduces paperwork and administrative costs. In addition, it speeds up the accuracy of information and documentation. Patients will benefit from this development and forego the need to carry past medical reports physically.

•  Faster communication and decision making - E-signatures facilitate speedier communication and decision-making among healthcare providers, insurers, and patients. Electronic signatures on medical orders can enable healthcare providers to quickly prescribe medication or authorize treatment without delay, improving patient outcomes and reducing costs associated with more extended hospital stays.

•  Improved security and compliance - E-signatures provide higher security and compliance than physical signatures, as they are validated and authenticated using security measures such as encryption, passwords, and biometric authentication. This protects patient data and ensures compliance with various regulatory requirements, such as the U.S. ESIGN Act and UETA.

•  Increased convenience and accessibility - E-signatures can make healthcare services convenient and accessible for patients, especially those who live in remote or underserved areas. Patients can sign forms and documents electronically from their homes or mobile devices. This reduces the need for physical visits and allows patients and healthcare providers to be resourceful.

How is DrySign Effective? 

DrySign is a renowned electronic signature solution allowing users to create digital signatures. It assists its users in providing their consent on electronic documents through a single click. Furthermore, it complies with international eSignature laws and regulations to offer convenience and flexibility to its users.

Conclusion 

The healthcare system is undergoing a digital overhaul to make it convenient for doctors and patients. An electronic signature is crucial to simplify document workflow and improve patient outcomes. Healthcare providers can rely on the solution to improve the efficiency of current processes.

Continue to provide value-based care with DrySign.

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for general information purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice. Laws governing the subject matter may change quickly, and Exela cannot guarantee that all the information on this site is current or correct. Should you have specific legal questions about any of the information on this site, you should consult with a licensed attorney in your area.

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The COVID-19 pandemic was a big enabler for organizations looking to take the digital route. This is supported by a survey by LogicMonitor, a cloud-based infrastructure monitoring platform, stating that 87% of companies intend to migrate to the cloud. Increasing digitalization has created the need for flexibility, security, and scalability.

Companies are looking for technologies that optimize data and help them expand their operations and revenue. Unfortunately, traditional hosting and data center services run on legacy systems and refuse to keep themselves updated with customers' current needs. The solution is cloud computing. Organizations can utilize it to continue providing services to customers seamlessly.

The cloud is a metaphor for a global network of remote servers that operates as a single ecosystem.

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing helps organizations enhance their computing power by purchasing, installing, and maintaining their servers. It involves the use of remote servers, networks, and software applications to store, manage, and process data over the internet. Organizations can access computing resources on demand without the need to own and maintain their physical servers.

The cloud computing model has helped organizations scale rapidly and create additional value. It eliminates the need to depend on legacy systems to host digital applications. It also makes your data ubiquitous, helping you access it anytime, anywhere.

Organizations reliant on data can use cloud computing more effectively to provide a valuable experience to customers. In addition, it can improve business processes while making data accessible for all teams.

Cloud spending has increased by 37% across all organizations globally

Benefits of the Cloud

Organizations are leveraging the cloud due to its far-reaching benefits. Since employees work remotely, organizations are considering implementing the cloud to gain efficiency early on. Here are its advantages:

• Instant Accessibility to Data – Clients and employees can access data instantly on any device, regardless of location. They can witness any updates or modifications immediately.

• Complete Virtualization – Companies can leave behind hardware and software to go completely virtual. This is ideal for companies looking to control their technological costs.

• Centralized Security – Organizations can be assured of the security of their data on the cloud owing to data encryption and two-factor authentication. It lowers the risk of data loss and reduces the pressure on teams or individuals to back up their data manually.

• Huge Performance Boost –Cloud computing improves the benefits of input and output operations. It reduces downtime while updating software patches or fixing security bugs.

• Business Resilience – Organizations can build resilience and protect themselves against unforeseen circumstances and disasters. Cloud assists them in storing data and gleaning valuable insights for faster decision-making.

73% organizations consider cloud optimization as their top initiative

How the Cloud Enhances Customer Experience

The cloud can be a great leveler of offering unique experiences. As data becomes central to driving experiences, enterprises can leverage the cloud to eliminate data silos and enhance customer experience.

A business can save data on servers, applications, and databases. Without the ability to share this data across business lines, it becomes impossible to innovate and deliver new products or services.

A cloud service strategy enables an organization to migrate to the cloud. It assists them in creating a simple architecture and holistic data strategy. As the cloud becomes a repository for storing and collecting new data, it leads to faster deployments of products.

Another prime advantage of the cloud is its ease of use and automation. Clients can shift customer data to the client to become their central storage point. Backup is the primary purpose of the cloud, with the data on the cloud able to be duplicated across multiple storage locations.

The cloud brings transparency to the customer journey. Companies can use this data to provide personalized experiences to customers. In addition, the cloud is highly secure for managing data and customer interactions. It makes it easy to identify trends and make better decisions for improving the customer journey.

How Do Electronic Signatures Fit in?

Electronic signatures help in managing workflows and keeping processes operational. Operational functions can become monotonous and repetitive after a while. Companies require technologies that help them automate processes and ensure employees focus on core tasks. Cloud computing provides a platform for storing and accessing digital documents and electronic signatures from any location with internet access. This means that users can sign documents digitally without having to be physically present or exchange paper copies. Cloud-based electronic signature services like DrySign allow users to sign documents from their computers, tablets, or smartphones.

Signing documents electronically signals the shift of companies looking to digitize their data and take advantage of its benefits. Electronic signatures or eSignatures provide a secure method to sign documents and transactions. It also changes how companies think of collaboration and assigning tasks in the future. Overall, the combination of electronic signatures and cloud computing can improve the efficiency, accessibility, security, and compliance of document signing processes for businesses and individuals alike.

Also Read: How Digital Signatures Improve Efficiency in the IT Sector

How is DrySign Effective?

DrySign is a secure and efficient electronic signature solution that offers a centralized location for managing and signing digital documents. DrySign allows users to save documents securely on the cloud and prevents unauthorized users from access. Significant benefits of DrySign that set it apart are:

• Document Security and Verification – Users of DrySign can verify the identities of recipients before giving them access to sensitive documents. Companies use two-factor authentication to strengthen the user's account defenses.

• Compliance with Latest Standards – DrySign adheres to electronic signature laws and their latest amendments. It is legally accepted and enforceable by law.

• High Efficiency – Users can utilize eSignatures to procure signatures on essential documents quickly, providing clients with a seamless signing experience.

• Simplify Document Management – Documents can be organized, with new formats introduced to accelerate execution. Electronic signatures reduce the potential for human error and enhance document management.

• Increased Productivity – Electronic signatures can increase employees' productivity while eliminating repetitive tasks.

• Lowers Expenses – The costs of physical storage are reduced, enabling higher savings for companies.

• Trust – DrySign helps create a feeling of trust and confidence between users and their clients, considering the issues of data integrity and security in the current workspace.

Conclusion

The cloud is an accelerator of digital transformation and opens up new opportunities. It enables organizations across industries to centralize their operations and deliver services seamlessly. Leverage the power of the cloud and eSignatures to share data among alliances and unlock new business opportunities with DrySign.

Source: financesonline.com

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for general information purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice. Laws governing the subject matter may change quickly, and Exela cannot guarantee that all the information on this site is current or correct. Should you have specific legal questions about any of the information on this site, you should consult with a licensed attorney in your area.

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Coordination in the face of sudden challenges such as lockdowns or social distancing can make or break a team.

The word “collaboration” has become a bit of a corporate buzzword, but that doesn’t place it in the bucket of empty clichés. On the contrary, collaboration in the workplace helps companies achieve targets, reach goals, and execute projects successfully. It’s really that simple.

Collaboration is when a group of people come together and contribute their expertise to benefit a shared objective, project, or mission, for example, a photographer working with a designer to create a digital cover or the technology department regularly meeting with the marketing team to accomplish quarterly goals. But it’s also a learned skill. How well you collaborate with others will significantly impact the outcome of a group project.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced teams to work together while being apart. During these testing times, cooperation was challenging, unlike meet-ups at the water cooler or official conference meetings where informal conversation can create bonds. As a result, many organizations suffered the consequences for months before they decided to rely on digital tools to improve their collaboration on projects.

About 75% of employees in the U.S. rate teamwork and collaboration as very important. – Queens University of Charlotte

Why is Team Collaboration Important?

Team collaboration helps teams achieve common goals. According to a Stanford study, the perception of working collectively on a task can improve the performance of employees. In addition, collaboration heightens creativity through frequent brainstorming and the creation of ideas. Groups with diverse disciplines, skills, and backgrounds offer the best perspectives. Finally, it helps in formulating reasonable solutions that can achieve good results.

Since this was not possible physically during lockdowns, most teams switched to digital tools to meet virtually to bond and keep up collaboration. In addition, companies leveraged digital tools to keep decision-makers or department heads on the same page.

Collaboration is stimulating, revitalizing, motivating, and productive for teams. So what happens when it's done virtually?

Challenges of Team Collaboration

The challenges of virtual teams increase as they increase in size, and people tend to focus on their personal rather than organizational goals. Here are the challenges virtual teams face:

• Differences in Communication – Various team members have varying communication styles, some preferring a text message over an email. Teams should manage communication in a manner that fosters collaboration.

• Lack of Structure – A lack of structure within teams leads to internal chaos. A well-defined workflow is pivotal and can drive processes. Companies must review processes and procedures to make collaboration as effective as possible.

• Poor Governance – A lack of governance creates low morale among team members. Members should be given clear direction to help them understand their roles in the team.

• Slow Response Times – Members should understand that their flexible work schedule comes with structure. Delays and setbacks are inevitable if team members do not work with this understanding.

• Distracting Environments – Distracting environments are a byproduct of working remotely. Virtual teams struggle with distractions, each reducing the efficiency rate of a team member. The setup of standard guidelines for the whole team to follow makes it straightforward for work hours to be followed by team members as in traditional workspaces.

• Lack of Office Culture – Creating an office culture while working virtually will help teams bond. Having company and department instant message groups can be helpful.

• Scheduling Meetings – Meetings play a critical role in bringing teams together. Since many team members may work on different time schedules, a virtual meeting at a convenient time can allow the team to plan their day or week.

The Need for Collaboration Tools 

Corporate teams have grown considerably in size over the years. New diverse talent groups have allowed companies to tap into vast knowledge and expertise. As complexities increase, so does the need for tools to share resources and meet deadlines. Companies have to take adequate measures to create a compatible culture.

The future will witness collaboration tools helping teams with insightful data to improve their patterns – tools like online video conferencing and instant messaging platforms, online whiteboards, file-sharing tools, etc. One such crucial tool that has gained immense popularity post-pandemic is electronic signature platforms. Electronic signatures help in managing workflows and keeping processes operational. With transactions becoming electronic, eSignatures will play their role in increasing efficiency and productivity in workspaces. Their features can help employees work efficiently and simplify the signing process.

What are Electronic Signatures?

Electronic signatures, or eSignatures, are a secure way to sign, share, and store documents online. eSignature platforms encourage transparency and cooperation in an era of remote working. Team members or stakeholders critical to signings and document approvals can collaborate in a safe space to better cooperate and accelerate tedious document signing processes. In addition, it can overcome challenges commonly seen in legacy organizations.

Also Read: How Digital Signatures Make Your Hybrid Workforce Efficient

What is DrySign? And how is it effective?

DrySign is an efficient, user-friendly, and cost-effective electronic signature solution that provides a single point for managing, storing, and signing digital documents. Here are some benefits of DrySign that encourage collaboration:

• Verifies User Identities – DrySign uses two-factor authentication to identify signatories. It helps detect actors with harmful intent and provides more robust security against users trying to commit signature fraud

• Compliance with Latest Standards – DrySign follows the guidelines in all electronic signature laws and their latest amendments. As a result, it is an industry-standard solution for enforcing eSignatures on contracts, forms, and other documents.

• Runs Business Efficiently – Team members can send, track, and sign documents on the go in case of a requirement of a majority consensus on projects. The improved user experience can help users approve with a single click.

• Reviews Documents with Ease – Stakeholders can review documents or papers and sign off on them at the right time. Signatories or document owners can track document modifications with timestamps and real-time mail trails.

• Seamless Transactions on the Cloud – DrySign users can save documents on the cloud and save time, effort, and costs. Teams can fetch critical documents from the cloud at any time and use them in collaboration for new projects.

• Automates Workflows – DrySign can easily create and send forms using easy-to-use templates.

• Protection against Document Tampering – DrySign assures the authenticity and integrity of documents. All changes are visible in a transparent mail trail. In addition, the e-signature is legally binding and secures the information within documents.

• Reminders and Notifications – The solution is in-built with a reminder feature capable of sending timely reminders to all team members. It also displays notifications to the DrySign user, informing them of all those who have signed.

• Lowers Expenses – DrySign alleviates the cost of printing documents and sending them to recipients. Once all stakeholders agree to eSignatures, there are no hassles, and the job is completed easily.

Harness the power of virtual and digital collaboration with DrySign!

Source: uctoday.com

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for general information purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice. Laws governing the subject matter may change quickly, and Exela cannot guarantee that all the information on this site is current or correct. Should you have specific legal questions about any of the information on this site, you should consult with a licensed attorney in your area.

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In a world that's increasingly moving towards digitalization, electronic signatures (e-signatures) have become an essential tool for businesses and individuals alike. They offer a convenient and secure way to sign documents without the need for physical paperwork or face-to-face meetings. As the demand for e-signatures continues to grow, it's essential to keep up with the requirements of users as well as the latest trends and upgrades to stay relevant and competitive. Failure to do so could mean falling behind the competition, losing customers, and missing out on potential opportunities. DrySign, our online digital signature solution, has launched a fresh, new version called DrySign 2.0 with a host of new features and improvements!

One of the platform's first and most noticeable changes is its cool new design and aesthetic. DrySign 2.0 brings forth a sleek, modern look to impress users. The color scheme has been updated with more calming tones, making it more visually appealing and engaging. The new design also features more white space, giving the interface a cleaner and minimalist feel. Another upgrade is the new rounded corner UI added to the platform's user-friendly design. The rounded corner UI in DrySign 2.0 is an intentional design approach that creates a softer, more approachable aesthetic. This design approach helps reduce visual clutter and creates a sense of flow and continuity throughout the platform.

In addition, the intuitive interface is simplified and designed to guide users through the signing process, making it easy to understand and use, even for those new to e-signatures. A well-designed user interface (UI) can make all the difference when it comes to user experience and overall satisfaction. DrySign 2.0's intuitive UI is designed with the user's needs and expectations in mind and is organized in a logical and predictable way. It includes clear labeling, simple navigation, visual cues, and task and goal-based navigation. Clear labeling ensures that users can quickly identify what they need to do, while simple navigation makes it easy to find their way around the platform. Visual cues, such as icons and color coding, help guide users through the signing process and make it more visually appealing. The task and goal-based navigation also focuses on the user's end goals, making it easier for them to complete tasks efficiently and effectively. All these features work together to create an intuitive UI that helps users sign documents with ease and confidence.

In addition to the visual upgrades, DrySign 2.0 now complies with section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. This means that the platform is accessible to differently-abled users, including those who use assistive technologies like screen readers or magnifiers. Furthermore, the platform meets the scoping and technical requirements for ICT under the Revised Section 508 Standards, making it compliant with federal regulations. By complying with Section 508, DrySign 2.0 ensures all users can access its features regardless of their abilities, providing a more inclusive user experience. In addition, existing compliance with ESIGN and UETA makes DrySign one of today's most coveted online signature generators.

Another significant improvement in DrySign 2.0 is the addition of accessible e-signatures. This feature allows users to sign documents using an electronic signature that is accessible to differently-abled people. For example, users can choose to sign with a signature stamp, a digital signature pad, or even by typing their name in a customized font. This feature ensures that all users can sign documents with ease and confidence.

Finally, the Seal Feature is one of the most exciting new features of DrySign 2.0. This feature allows businesses to add a company seal (in .png or .jpeg) to their signed documents, giving them an added level of authenticity and professionalism. In addition, the seal can be customized with the company's logo, name, and other relevant information and is a great way to help build trust with customers and partners.

The introduction of the new UI in DrySign 2.0 has made the platform more than just functional; it has transformed it into a tool that is both useful and usable. By incorporating user-centered design principles, DrySign 2.0 has become a desirable platform that users want to engage with. In addition, implementing compliance with section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act has made the platform accessible to all users. The rounded corner UI and company seal feature also adds an extra level of credibility to the platform, helping to build trust and establish DrySign 2.0 as a reliable and professional e-signature solution. By focusing on creating a UI that is Useful, Usable, Desirable, Credible, and Accessible, DrySign 2.0 has become an online signature generator that meets the needs and exceeds the expectations of its users while also staying ahead of the competition.

Whether you’re a small business owner, a legal professional, or just someone who needs to sign documents on a regular basis, DrySign 2.0 is definitely worth checking out!

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for general information purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice. Laws governing the subject matter may change quickly, and Exela cannot guarantee that all the information on this site is current or correct. Should you have specific legal questions about any of the information on this site, you should consult with a licensed attorney in your area

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Digital signature technology has been around since the start of the new millennium. In 2000, the United States passed the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (E-SIGN). The Act ensured that e-signatures hold the same legal status as wet ink signatures and are acceptable for executing any documentation in U.S. states and territories.

The global e-signature market is anticipated to reach $61.91 billion by 2030.

Digital signatures have become essential to workflow improvement. For instance, during the pandemic, several businesses took the help of digital signatures to engage with their customers efficiently and effortlessly.

With the emergence of COVID-19, eSignature business users have increased by 50%, while individuals using eSignatures have grown by 13%.
Also, 69% of eSignature users are more likely to continue to e-sign over in-person signing.

People worldwide find it a very convenient, easy-to-use, and cost-efficient solution for businesses and individuals. This technology eliminates the need for an in-person visit, saving countless money spent on traveling, fuel, scanning documents, printing, and physical wet signing. On the other hand, irrespective of the business type or size, eSignatures provide a wide array of benefits along with the convenience of online signing.

Dive into the below session to know which industries can and must incorporate electronic signature technology into their workflows and operations to see a tremendous impact.

• Architecture, Construction & Engineering:

  The architecture, construction, and engineering industries frequently deal with original ideas that need approvals from higher authorities. Building or floor plans, engineering drawings, business proposals, material lists, estimation reports, etc., are transferred from one department to another in order to meet strict deadlines and safeguard intellectual property rights. Any minor error or delay in document processing could result in unnecessary extra expenses or legal actions.

  Communicating with dozens of engineers, zoning regulators, contractors, and construction team members becomes overwhelming. In addition, providing hundreds of pages of contracts, agreements, or other documents, getting approvals, obtaining signed documents, and maintaining the document records worsen the situation.

  E-Signature solutions are a lifesaver for organizations dealing with thousands of documents on a daily basis. Online signature apps are essential for confirming the authenticity and validity of the relevant documents. Moreover, digital signing makes it easier for employees to track documents like purchase orders, work contracts, estimation reports, and subcontractor agreements whenever required. Cloud storage saves physical space and makes documents easily accessible to authorized persons. Here are some documents that can be e-signed:

  • Invoices
  • Purchase orders
  • Worker contracts
  • Property agreements
  • Estimation reports
  • Subcontractor agreements
  • Building and floor plans

• Accounting and Tax:

  Accounting and Tax industries deal with sensitive and confidential information that needs higher security and authenticity. Therefore, any minor error or misplaced documents can lead to significant penalties.

  With digital signatures, you can sign any contract within minutes, securely. While signing any confidentiality agreement, assisting customers in forming an LLC, or asset acquisition agreement, digital signatures offer a legitimate way to receive the client's approval. A few of the documents in accounting and tax firms that can be e-signed are:

  • Employee agreements
  • Separate contracting agreements
  • Attestation letters
  • Tax documents
  • Audit reports

• Human Resource:

  Digital signature services are the most crucial in the human resource industry. The human resource industry deals with the primary asset of any organization - the employees. Organizational productivity and growth start with only its employees, which makes it equally crucial for organizations to take care of their needs. This requires HRs to create employee appreciation and satisfaction programs and policies. Consequently, the human resource industry deals with larger sets of confidential data that cannot be shared with unauthorized persons. Right from hiring documents and offer letters to employee information sheets, insurance documents, healthcare reports, benefits, compensation, and exit forms, there are countless documents unique to each employee that needs to be handled by HR.

  E-signature technology is one such solution that can help reduce the administrative burden on human resource professionals, automating document workflows. Electronic signatures are end-to-end encrypted, ensuring integrated security in your documentation and reducing data loss or theft risks. Moreover, it makes it easier to manage larger data sets, eliminating the need for additional resources and physical storage. Here are examples of HR documents that can be e-signed:

  • Hiring documents
  • Employee onboarding forms
  • Non-disclosure agreements
  • Insurance papers
  • Exit forms
  • Salary slips
  • Offer letters

• Healthcare:

  The focus on the healthcare sector has been renewed in the last few years. Many new technologies are simplifying processes to take the excessive pressure off medical professionals. One such technology is the electronic signature, automating document workflows to reduce the administrative burden. Specific healthcare organizations have predefined rules and regulations. They are legally obligated to employ digital signatures to exhibit their authenticity to administrative bodies. With digital signatures, you can avoid unauthorized access to confidential documents, lost files, data theft, document misplacement, or data alterations. Physicians can e-sign documents such as medical supplies forms, invoice copies, prescriptions, etc. A few of the healthcare documents that can be e-signed are:

  • Prescriptions
  • Medical supplies forms
  • Invoices
  • Insurance forms
  • Patient intake consent forms
  • Staff hiring and onboarding

Also Read: Prevent Signature Forgery with DrySign Digital Signatures

• Finance:

  Every organization, irrespective of size, has an integral part: its finance department. With hundreds of employees and clients, it becomes overwhelming for finance professionals to manage the documentation. In addition, any error or delay in their processes can severely harm the organization. On top of that, receiving a physical signature adds up to the total cost.

  On the other hand, an electronic signature solution helps expedite reimbursement paperwork, loan requests, bank account opening requests, investment application processes, audit reports, and many more. Moreover, it integrates end-to-end security and legitimacy in your documentation with a smart option to track the document status with real-time mail trails. DrySign, one of the leading eSignature solutions, provides a comprehensive list of features to streamline your operations. With DrySign, you can invite more than one person to sign documents online, search for older documents easily, set reminders to sign documents, and receive notifications, helping your paperwork stay up-to-date. Here are a few of the finance forms that you can e-sign:

  • Application for loans
  • Sincere estimates
  • Mortgage assistance
  • Bank account opening
  • Audit reports
  • eConsent
  • Loan estimate/waiver
  • Broker contracts
  • Underwriting documents
  • Address/beneficiary changes
  • Financial statements
  • Transaction disputes
  • Terms of use forms
  • Tax forms

• Real Estate:

  We are in the middle of the 'Prop-Tech revolution.' Prop-Tech (property technology) is a broad term introducing new technologies to the real estate industry. Unfortunately, despite all the innovations, the real estate industry has been relatively slow to embrace the Prop-Tech revolution.

  Many real estate documents, such as purchase contracts, need to be signed by both the clients and the real estate brokers. In order to make the deals faster and avoid losing out to technologically competent rivals, real estate companies need to adopt more intelligent solutions such as eSignatures. It streamlines your document workflows eliminating all the bottlenecks. With e-signatures, your customers can sign documents from the convenience of their homes, and you can save time and money spent on traveling to acquire signatures. The saved time and money can be diverted toward acquiring new clients. Here are a few real estate documents that can be e-signed:

  • Purchase agreements
  • Payment agreements
  • Certificate of occupancy
  • Home insurance papers
  • Rent agreements
  • Mortgage forms
  • Purchase-sale agreements
  • Lease agreements

• Legal:

  Lawyers often handle countless contracts and legal documents on behalf of their clients. Clients occasionally find themselves making several visits to the lawyer's office to sign and revise agreements and contracts endlessly. Clients can quickly sign contracts and legal documents with the help of digital signatures from the comfort of their homes. It eventually helps prioritize crucial engagements, eliminating the time spent on redundant tasks. Moreover, you can avoid delays and provide your clients with a hassle-free experience. A few of the legal documents that can be e-signed are:

  • Notices
  • Settlements
  • Medical releases
  • Incident descriptions
  • Pleadings
  • Shareholder agreements
  • Real property
  • Disclosures
  • Closings
  • NDAs
  • Policy management
  • Audit and inventory signoffs
  • Purchase orders
  • Statements of work
  • Master service agreements
  • Supplier compliance

• Government and Insurance:

  The government sector already has a low reputation concerning faster documentation, and so does insurance. People feel overwhelmed following up with government employees to get document approvals or signatures. On the other hand, going through insurance papers and the procedure to claim is exhausting. The application of eSignatures helps organizations provide the fastest documentation to clients with integrated security and legitimacy. Moreover, insurance companies need signatures from multiple entities to take their consent for renewing or processing the coverage, which can be done within minutes using eSignatures.

  • Applications
  • Accident reports
  • Change of address
  • Coverage selection forms
  • Medical release authorizations
  • Renewals and cancellations
  • Disclosures
  • Total loss forms
  • Bill presentment

The Bottom Line

Digital transformation is crucial for organizations - even the most traditional ones. This transformation will help your organization improve operational processes and grow your potential customer base. Electronic signature technology has been helping companies streamline their operations for decades now. It makes the process smooth and hassle-free and comes with many benefits. DrySign, one of the leading e-signature solutions, provides a comprehensive list of features and benefits to help your organization thrive in the modern business world. You can define your business requirements and get a solution unique to your business needs. Start DrySigning now!

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for general information purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice. Laws governing the subject matter may change quickly, and Exela cannot guarantee that all the information on this site is current or correct. Should you have specific legal questions about any of the information on this site, you should consult with a licensed attorney in your area.

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The higher up the ‘corporate ladder’ you go, the fewer women in leadership roles there are - Mercer

Women are trailblazers in every field they have chosen to pursue. From engineering to liberal arts, they have done it all. Enduring hardships, systemic bias, and personal struggles to stand at the top, women have persevered to become role models for generations to come.

Women are taking center stage and giving younger women just joining the new workforce real role models to emulate by carving their niche and overcoming many obstacles and hurdles. Today, equality and diversity in the workplace are common values shared among almost all employers and their staff. However, this wasn’t the case just a few years back, especially for women. Therefore, by showcasing the evolution of women’s role in the workforce, we recognize the resilience and perseverance of the women that came before us and the strength of those who continue to fight today.

It wasn’t until after the 1970s that real changes could be seen in the workplace for women. A male-dominated job market saw a spike in women taking on new jobs that were once “traditionally male occupations” - Britannica, 2021.

History of Women’s Rights

A generation of women has suffered and fought for the women of today to enjoy their rights. For example, the Women's Rights movement that started in 1848 allowed women to ask for their rights from the government. Started by Elizabeth Cady Stanton, an American writer and activist, it asked for equal liberties for women. She listed various grievances women faced and how they were treated unjustly.

The second wave of the Women's Rights movement started in the 1960s. The U.S. government decided to take an active role and established a Commission with Eleanor Roosevelt heading it. The report issued by the Commission highlighted the various issues of discrimination faced by women. It led to state governments launching their commissions to research conditions and recommend changes.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) was established in 1964 to investigate discrimination complaints against companies. This ensured that women did not face discrimination based on color or gender. In addition, the success of the Women's Rights movement led to various smaller splinter groups that catered to the needs of a specific group of women, like Latinas, Asians, African-Americans, and others.

The inclusion of Title IX in the Education Codes of 1972 provided women equal access to higher education and professional education—this increased participation of women in all significant avenues of life, from sports to medicine and law. The National Organization for Women (NOW) was responsible for women employed in sectors ranging from drivers to airline pilots and veterinarians.

Today, women hold 28% of the seats in the U.S. Congress and have successfully signed local, state, and federal laws that expand women's freedom and rights.

6 Trailblazers Who Signed Their Way to the Top.

Organizations require women who are self-driven and thrive when working with people. They want to use their talents to contribute positively to the organization and society. Here are some women who have conquered peaks and climbed the ladder:

• Kamala Harris, Vice President of the U.S. – Kamala Harris was an accomplished lawyer and senator before becoming the Vice President of the U.S. She had resisted pressure from the Obama administration to settle on a nationwide case against mortgage lenders and their unfair practices. She won a judgment with a payout five times higher in 2012. As one of the first women of color in this position, she has pledged to fight for causes plaguing women and pave the path for future women leaders.

• Cynthia Marshall, CEO of Dallas Mavericks – Cynthia Marshall is the first Black female CEO and takes action to create safe and productive workplaces. Despite being from an underprivileged background, she battled against the odds to attend UC Berkeley on a scholarship. As a result, she has elevated diversity and inclusion at numerous organizations and gained recognition for her leadership skills.

• Melanie Perkins, CEO of Canva – Melanie Perkins is one of the most recognizable CEOs in the technology industry. Canva, her brainchild, is utilized by 85% of Fortune 500 companies. Canva gained success by helping schools design yearbooks in Australia and eventually gained traction in the United States.

• Indra Nooyi, Former CEO of PepsiCo. – Indra Nooyi is the former decision maker of PepsiCo and has become a model of exemplary leadership for generations of women. She sits on various reputed organizations' boards and receives accolades for her initiatives. In addition, she is the first woman to have endowed a chair at the Yale School of Management.

• Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Former U.S. Supreme Court Justice – The former associate justice of the U.S. was a pioneer for gender equality and a strong advocate for woman's rights. She wrote on landmark cases such as reproductive rights and pay equity and was outspoken against sexist laws.

• Christine Lagarde, President of European Central Bank – Christine Lagarde has spent her entire career in the banking industry. She helmed the International Monetary Fund at the peak of the European sovereign debt crisis. She has helped in shattering stereotypes and champions gender inclusion.

In 2023, we could still say that the movement for women's empowerment, although on its way, still has a long way to go. Although there have been major breakthroughs for women over the last few centuries, there are still mountains to climb with regard to the workplace today, including equal pay, etc. The workplace needs to transform for women to feel included. People in a position of power need to take more initiatives to sponsor development programs exclusively for women or comeback programs for new mothers to create a new pipeline for strong women leaders. Sign your new policies with a trusted e-signature platform like DrySign. Remember to check out our Special Women's History Month discount and get FLAT 50% off on any of our plans.

Sign Your Way to the Top with DrySign.

Sources: catalyst.org | bain.com | pewresearch.org

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for general information purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice. Laws governing the subject matter may change quickly, and Exela cannot guarantee that all the information on this site is current or correct. Should you have specific legal questions about any of the information on this site, you should consult with a licensed attorney in your area.

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The concept of telehealth has grown by leaps and bounds in recent times. It all started in early 1955 when two psychiatrists developed a telemedicine studio, enabling them to complete ward rounds in rural hospitals in the USA. Since then, the digital movement in medicine has been expanding extensively. Telehealth is often used interchangeably with telemedicine, which refers to remote healthcare-related interactions and exchanging of images, information, and sound through communication technologies.

Digital and mental health are concepts that receive relatively low importance, and the lack of data only strengthens this. However, emerging international evidence exhibits the effectiveness of digitizing mental health interventions. In addition, service users have positive experiences with telehealth because of its accessibility and convenience. Innovations like telehealth are opening doors for digital transformation in behavioral healthcare. But many more emerging technologies are digitally transforming healthcare to better serve their staff and patients. One such technology is digital signature technology which has an immense role to play in healthcare. The solution can streamline operations for each department of the behavioral healthcare sector - from interviewing staff to their offer letters, patient forms, medicine supplies forms, and many more. Dive into the below session to discover the innovations in behavioral healthcare and ways digital signature solution is leading the way in digital transformation in healthcare.

Digital transformation in behavioral healthcare

In the healthcare sector, businesses are starting to recognize the importance of digitization. However, treating it as a journey rather than just a quick fix is recommended. The route to digital transformation and innovation in behavioral healthcare is worth taking, but similar to other trips, it is bound to encounter a few hurdles.

81% of healthcare professionals stated their organizations are expanding their digital transformation efforts.

To map the digital transformation journey for your organization, consider the following outlined steps:

• Determine your digitization goal - where you want to see your organization going forward and how digitally mature it is in its existing state.
• Identify the level of digital maturity your healthcare institution needs in order to reach the goal.
• Start your journey, make notes of what went wrong and what's working best for your digitization strategies, and revamp your strategy accordingly.

Following these steps will assist your organization in undergoing its digital transformation with the best results and the least effort, allowing you to be agile in the face of change. Opting to go digital in behavioral healthcare will enable organizations to cope with the changes and evolve quickly.

What are the critical changes in telepsychiatry regulations?

In response to COVID-19, the CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) has been prompted to make changes to telepsychiatry regulations. This will likely eliminate barriers for patients who have found it challenging to continue existing treatment plans. Moreover, it makes it easier for formerly untreated victims to find a new way to treat their mental health disorders. Here is a summary of some significant regulatory changes that have paved the way for the evolution of telepsychiatry.

• Medicare Part B expansion

Under Medicare Part B, the new regulatory changes now cover telepsychiatry treatment. This enables patients to pay for the sessions from the comfort of their homes with coinsurance and incorporate those costs against a deductible. Earlier, this coverage was only accessible to patients in remote locations.

• Ryan Haight Act of 2008 suspension

Earlier, this regulation prohibited mental health professionals from prescribing controlled substances without an in-person visit. However, this regulation has been suspended, enabling prescriptions to be created after telepsychiatry appointments.

In 2020, the American Psychiatric Association reported that 85% of psychiatrists met with a majority of their patients through virtual meets.

The same year, over $600 million in venture funds were being raised to subsidize the development of behavioral health solutions.

In addition to the regulatory changes in telepsychiatry, SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) has also updated rules to ensure that at-home patients have adequate access to take-home medications. Moreover, it ensures that 42 CFR Part 2 does not interfere with SUD treatment services. In order to get the best treatment while staying at home, it is also vital that these regulatory changes are timely communicated to people.

How important is patient consent?

The regulatory changes in telepsychiatry are great news for mental health and SUD patients. However, they must still complete consent forms and documents to receive the treatment. Alike any other treatment, telepsychiatry also comes with potential risks. Before entering into the treatment procedure, patients need to be informed of the same. And such information needs patient acknowledgment to proceed further, which comes in the form of consent forms. These documents are editable according to the different telehealth providers and patients. Generally, these forms are used to:

• Inform patients about their rights regarding telemedicine, such as the right to pause or stop the treatment at any time they wish.
• Instructions about patients' responsibilities while receiving telepsychiatry treatment.
• Describe potential risks, constraints, and benefits that come along with telemedicine sessions.
• Outline policies concerning scheduling, billing, cancellation, and more.
• Prepare patients for contingency plans in case of a technology or equipment failure during the telemedicine sessions.

Patients must provide signed consent forms to start the treatment with fewer obstacles. However, with so many service providers and patients homebound, collecting physical signatures is exhausting. This is where the role of online signing comes into play. Read on to learn how digital signatures can lead the way to resilience in behavioral healthcare.

Also Read: Digital Signatures: Elevating the Healthcare Service Experience

How can digital signatures lead the way to resilience in behavioral healthcare?

Digital signatures provide a wide array of benefits for organizations worldwide and mental health patients to complete the necessary paperwork and start receiving treatment from any location. In addition, digital signatures are more secure than wet signatures, which help keep your documentation safe and confidential. Moreover, any e-signed document can be used as evidence of the transaction in a court of law. Patient consent forms or any other documents can be signed online within minutes from anywhere worldwide.

Telepsychiatry is a broad term that incorporates a variety of different services, each requiring unique documentation and consent forms. Thus, mental health providers need to look for ways to effectively manage the steps between a patient requesting the treatment and starting it. You can only reduce the administrative burden by effectively managing the documents required for the process. Moreover, it helps ensure compliance and begin the treatment at the earliest.

Conclusion

With so many health issues incorporated due to the Covid-19 impacts, the focus on the healthcare sector has been renewed. Since the global outbreak, digital healthcare has gained so much importance for personalized experiences and intelligent solutions. And digital signatures have been playing a massive role in it. DrySign, a leading digital signature solution, provides a wide range of features and benefits to help healthcare organizations streamline their processes. Get DrySign now!

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for general information purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice. Laws governing the subject matter may change quickly, and Exela cannot guarantee that all the information on this site is current or correct. Should you have specific legal questions about any of the information on this site, you should consult with a licensed attorney in your area.

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A signature is a sign of consent or approval of the user's intent on a document. Despite the digitalization of various systems and processes, signatures still hold significant standing in legal and financial procedures. The potential to misuse signatures and signature forgeries is high despite the wide use of personal identification numbers (PINs).

An average organization loses 5% of its internal revenue to fraud.

People think signatures are less in demand in today's digital landscape. But the truth is that most organizations have been slow in shifting to digital processes and rely on signatures to authenticate documentation. As a result, signatures are used on checks, documents, contracts, and credit card transactions, giving way to various loopholes and incentives to commit fraud.

What is Signature Fraud?

Another question on a person's mind is how forgeable is my signature? Did you consider it when you first made your signature? What aspects did you change to make sure it is impenetrable? The writing style, the pressure on the pen, the writing speed, and the signature's structure. Unfortunately, all of it can be replicated by an expert forger and considerable effort.

Signature fraud or falsifying a person's signature is a criminal offense. With many organizations using signatures to authenticate transactions, signature fraud has become rampant. Here is a list of documents that have been the subject of fraud:

• Titles
• Court Seals
• Corporate documents
• Bonds
• Documents used in identity theft
• Deeds
• Currency
• Securities
• Checks
• Money orders

While meeting deadlines, pressure is put on employees to pull up contracts leading to costly mistakes. Hence, preventing fraud is always better than incurring the costs of defending the validity of contracts or transactions.

Recognizing Types of Signature Forgery

It is hard to figure out whether a signature is authentic or fake. Some cases of fraud have confounded even the best experts. Moreover, the financial implications of fraud can range from a trifle to a value of an entire estate. Typical documents that have faced signature verification are wills, property deeds, loan agreements, and power of attorney.

There are 3 types of signature forgery:

• Random/Blind Forgery: A forger manages to forge a signature similar to the original one of the user. The forger cannot access the genuine signature but gets lucky.

• Unskilled Forgery: This type is a signature traced over the genuine signature.

• Skilled Forgery: This is the most dangerous type of forgery. It is done by a forger who has access to two or more samples of the authentic signature.

Knowledge can help you be more cautious before signing any document. Fraud prevention aims to reduce the risk of future signature fraud. In addition, recognition of fraudulent documents or signatures can be a first step in proving a case against any financial or transactional dispute.

Prevention of Signature Fraud

• Read Documents Carefully: Sensitive or critical documents must be read carefully or thoroughly reviewed by an appropriate committee or overseer.

• Create a Signature Policy in Place: A formal internal signature policy needs to be in place for users to follow. It should also contain anti-fraud control and compliance measures.

• Keep an Updated Signatory List: An authorized signatory list should be kept by a company to provide access only to authorized users.

• Establish a Control System: Organizations must implement a control system to ensure that only a few employees can oversee signatures and sensitive digital documents. This ensures that competent personnel is in charge of oversight and instances of fraud are curbed.

• Use a Trusted Electronic Signature: A reliable electronic signature solution will help companies verify all users' identities. It needs to possess strong authentication policies to prevent fraudulent activities.

What are Digital and Electronic Signatures?

A digital signature is a digital code (generated and authenticated by public key encryption) attached to an electronically transmitted document to verify its contents and the sender's identity. In contrast, electronic signatures or eSignatures are symbols or other data in the digital form attached to an electronically transmitted document as verification of the sender's intent to sign the document. To summarize, while eSignature is the equivalent of a wet signature, a digital signature is a technology that must accompany an electronic signature for it to be truly secure.

An electronic signature platform helps to verify signatories before giving them access to documents. Users have to verify their identity through two-factor authentication. It helps organizations identify genuine signatories and pinpoint fraud.

An eSignature solution assists in maintaining the integrity of documents and protects the signature and the data from being changed or modified. Furthermore, as per a survey by Wacom, the stylus maker, electronic signatures are easier to analyze. Therefore, they can be used as a secure technology against document forgery.

Also Read: Automate your Contract Signing Process with eSignatures

How Effective is DrySign?

DrySign is an electronic signature solution that provides a single point for managing and signing digital documents. Here are some advantages of DrySign that set it apart:

• Verifies User Identities: Users of DrySign are verified using two-factor authentication. It helps detect malicious actors and provides more robust security against users trying to commit signature fraud.

• Complies with Latest Standards: DrySign adheres to electronic signature laws and their latest amendments. It is an industry-standard solution capable of identifying users and verifying the authenticity of documents.

• Real-time Mail Trail: It offers a real-time mail trail to identify changes made by any stakeholder in the signing process. The timestamp with the changes helps in detecting any irregularities in documents.

• Automates Workflows: DrySign automates the workflow of documents in the signing process and makes it easier to gain the approval of all relevant stakeholders. This results in higher employee productivity and prevents any risk caused by human error.

• Ensures Document Integrity: DrySign prioritizes the integrity of documents and ensures any changes are visible in a transparent mail trail. Any alterations to the eSignature make the document legally invalid. Moreover, it helps to identify any tampering with documents in case of legal disputes.

• Creates Trust: It protects the signature from being used for fraudulent purposes. Digital documents are easily verified, allowing companies to mitigate the risk of signature fraud.

If you want to secure yourself against signature fraud, dive into the World of eSignatures with DrySign.

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for general information purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice. Laws governing the subject matter may change quickly, and Exela cannot guarantee that all the information on this site is current or correct. Should you have specific legal questions about any of the information on this site, you should consult with a licensed attorney in your area.

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