E-Signature Providers Compared
DocuSign
Global (US)Best for: International contracts, enterprise
From $10/month (~R185)
Pros
- +Global industry standard
- +Extensive integrations (Salesforce, etc.)
- +Recognized by international courts
- +Advanced workflow features
- +Mobile app excellence
Cons
- -USD pricing (currency risk)
- -Can be overkill for simple needs
- -Support may not understand SA context
SigniFlow
South AfricaBest for: SA businesses, legal compliance
From R99/month
Pros
- +Built for SA legal requirements
- +Local data hosting (POPIA compliant)
- +ZAR pricing - no currency risk
- +Local support team
- +Integrates with SA systems
Cons
- -Smaller global footprint
- -Fewer third-party integrations
- -Less known to international clients
HelloSign (Dropbox)
Global (US)Best for: SMEs wanting simplicity
From $15/month (~R280)
Pros
- +Very simple interface
- +Good Dropbox/Google integration
- +Reasonable pricing
- +Good for occasional use
Cons
- -Limited advanced features
- -No SA-specific compliance focus
- -USD pricing
Legal FAQs
Are e-signatures legal in South Africa?
Yes. The Electronic Communications and Transactions Act (ECT Act) of 2002 recognizes electronic signatures as legally valid. Section 13 states that an electronic signature is not without legal force merely because it's electronic.
What makes an e-signature legally binding?
Three things: (1) Intent to sign - the signer must intend to be bound, (2) Consent to do business electronically, and (3) Association - the signature must be linked to the document and signer. Audit trails and authentication strengthen enforceability.
When can I NOT use an e-signature?
The ECT Act excludes certain documents: wills and codicils, agreements for sale of immovable property (land/buildings), long-term land leases (>20 years), and documents requiring notarization. These still need wet-ink signatures.
What's the difference between electronic and digital signatures?
An electronic signature is any electronic mark showing intent (typed name, drawn signature, click). A digital signature uses cryptography to verify identity and document integrity - it's a subset of electronic signatures with stronger security.
Is a scanned signature valid?
Technically yes, but it's the weakest form. No audit trail, no identity verification. Courts may question authenticity. For anything important, use proper e-signature software that creates audit trails.
Best Practices for E-Signatures
- Use a reputable platform - DocuSign or SigniFlow create audit trails that courts recognize.
- Verify signer identity - Email verification is minimum; SMS OTP or ID verification for important documents.
- Keep audit trails - Store the certificate of completion with IP addresses, timestamps, and consent records.
- Include an e-signature clause - Add a clause stating parties agree to conduct business electronically.
- Know the exceptions - Property sales, wills, and notarized documents still need wet-ink signatures.