Why are digital signatures worth it for businesses?

Digital signatures provide a simple and highly effective solution. They completely replace paper-based procedures and create the foundation for fully digital workflows. Studies show that signature processes can be accelerated by up to 80% as a result.

But what does this mean in day-to-day business operations?

Paper-based vs. digital signature processes

Many companies still rely on manual contract processes. Documents are printed, signed, scanned, and forwarded. This workflow that consumes time and increases the risk of errors. A direct comparison clearly highlights the differences:

Paper-based process	Digital process
Document is printed	Document is created digitally
Physical signature required	Digital signature in just a few clicks
Sent by mail or email (scan)	Sent directly for signature
Delays caused by shipping times	Immediate processing
High administrative workload	Automated workflows
Risk of media disruptions and errors	Seamless, traceable process

The biggest advantages become clear in terms of speed and transparency. What used to take days can now be completed in minutes. The result: less administrative effort, faster deal closures, and a smoother experience for customers and business partners.

The process behind a handwritten signature

In practice, a handwritten signature involves several work steps, not just the act of signing itself. We based our calculations on the following process and time estimates:

Printing the document	1 min
Preparing and sending it to the recipient	3 min
Reviewing and scanning the document	3 min
Archiving (physical or digital)	3 min
Total time	10 min, which equates to labour costs of CHF 8.00
Additional costs include:
Printing costs	CHF 0.30
Postage costs (round trip)	CHF 2.40
Total cost per document with handwritten signature	CHF 10.70

What may seem insignificant at first quickly adds up: every handwritten signature costs around 10 minutes and more than CHF 10 per document.

Legally compliant and trustworthy

Digital signatures meet the highest legal standards. Qualified electronic signatures have the same legal validity as handwritten signatures.

They ensure:

• clear identification of the signing person
• document integrity
• full traceability of the signing process

For businesses, this means maximum security with minimal administrative effort.

Flexible work without limitations

Many companies now operate in hybrid and location-independent environments. Teams, customers, and partners are no longer always in the same place. Digital signatures make it possible to sign documents anytime and from anywhere. Processes remain efficient regardless of where the participants are located.

Sustainability as an additional benefit

Eliminating paper, printing, and shipping not only reduces costs, but also lowers the environmental footprint. An average paper-based contract requires multiple printed pages, transportation, and archiving. Digital signatures eliminate this effort entirely and can reduce paper consumption in this area by up to 90%.

This is becoming increasingly important for companies and their stakeholders alike.

A foundation for digital transformation

Introducing digital signatures is often more than just process optimization. It is a first step toward fully digital workflows.

This creates the foundation for:

• automated workflows
• digital archiving
• integrated end-to-end processes

As a result, companies build an infrastructure that can grow alongside their business.

Conclusion

Digital signatures offer clear advantages for businesses: faster processes, reduced administrative effort, and maximum security. The transition delivers value not only in the short term, but also strengthens long-term efficiency, competitiveness, and innovation capacity.

Now is the right time to take the next step.