Add-ins and Connectors
Native add-ins for Word and Outlook allow in-context placement of signature fields and start signing workflows without switching applications, preserving document structure and author metadata during signing.
Adding a byline on Microsoft documents preserves signer identity and timestamp metadata directly in files and message headers, improving traceability and record keeping.
Typically the person who prepares the Word or PDF file and initiates the signing process. This role sets recipient order, selects authentication options, and configures retention and storage locations inside OneDrive or SharePoint.
An internal or external individual who receives the document for signature. The signer completes identity verification steps and applies an electronic signature, which becomes part of the byline and audit record embedded in the document metadata.
Bylines help these groups reduce disputes and provide a clear record for audits, regulatory reviews, and internal controls.
Native add-ins for Word and Outlook allow in-context placement of signature fields and start signing workflows without switching applications, preserving document structure and author metadata during signing.
Bylines that write signer name, email, role, and timestamp into document metadata make it easier to prove signer identity when files are exported or archived.
Comprehensive logs record each signing event, authentication step, and document change, providing the chain-of-custody data required for audits and dispute resolution.
Support for multiple authentication methods (email, SMS, knowledge-based, or third-party ID verification) lets administrators match verification level to document risk.
Integration with SharePoint/OneDrive retention policies and legal holds ensures signed files with bylines are preserved according to compliance requirements.
The ability to export a signed PDF with an embedded byline and then apply tamper-evident locking preserves a final, auditable record for long-term storage.
A Word add-in places signature fields and configures signing workflows without leaving the document. It can push completed bylines back into the Word file or export a signed PDF with embedded signer metadata for compliance and archival. Integration preserves file permissions and can save directly to OneDrive or SharePoint.
Integration with Outlook allows sending agreements and obtaining bylines directly from email. Signer metadata and signed attachments are attached to the thread, maintaining context and providing a timestamped record in the recipient’s mailbox while storing evidence in the signing system.
Direct save options store signed documents with embedded bylines back to SharePoint or OneDrive folders. This preserves version history and supports retention policies while ensuring documents retain embedded signature metadata for audits.
Templates predefine fields and byline placement for recurring Microsoft documents. Templates reduce setup time, enforce consistency, and ensure each signed file includes the required signer attribution and audit details.
| Setting Name | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Reminder Frequency | 48 hours |
| Signing Order | Sequential |
| Authentication Method | Email + SMS |
| Save Location | SharePoint folder |
| Retention Policy | 7 years |
Bylines can be created and viewed across desktop, web, and mobile Microsoft clients when supported by the chosen eSignature integration.
Ensure you use supported Office versions and keep add-ins updated; mobile and web experiences may differ in field placement and metadata embedding, so validate signed outputs across platforms.
A clinic sends a consent form as a Word document for signature, converted to PDF on completion
Resulting in a clear, HIPAA-aware audit record for patient files and compliance reviews.
A procurement team circulates a contract through Word and SharePoint for multi-party approval
Leading to faster procurement cycles and a defensible contract history for audits and legal review.
| Feature comparison across major vendors | signNow (Featured) | DocuSign | Adobe Sign |
|---|---|---|---|
| Native Microsoft Word Add-in support | |||
| Embedded metadata in exported PDF | |||
| Direct save to SharePoint/OneDrive | |||
| Bulk Send for repeated templates |
30 to 90 days for transactional receipts.
3 to 7 years for most contractual documents.
Permanent or extended retention for critical records.
Daily or weekly backups to secure storage.
Quarterly permission audits and logs.
| Pricing and plan comparison | signNow (Featured) | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | Dropbox Sign | PandaDoc |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level starting price (monthly) | From $8 per user per month | From $10 per user per month | From $14 per user per month | From $15 per user per month | From $19 per user per month |
| Common included features at entry level | Basic templates, Word add-in, audit trail | Basic signing, integrations, templates | Core signing, Adobe PDF integration | Email signing, basic templates | Document builder, signature fields |
| Business/enterprise options | Advanced security, SSO, compliance add-ons | Enterprise API and admin controls | Enterprise security and certification | Business-tier integrations and SSO | Enterprise workflows and CRM integration |
| Compliance and advanced assurances | ESIGN/UETA, BAA options, SOC 2 | ESIGN/UETA, BAA via agreement | ESIGN/UETA, SOC 2, BAA options | ESIGN/UETA, SOC 2 | ESIGN/UETA, SOC 2 |
| Trial or free tier availability | Free trial and limited free tier | Free trial available | Free trial available | Limited free tier | Free trial available |
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