Headline
A clear, news-focused headline that summarizes the announcement and fits wire service character limits; supports reporter uptake and SEO.
A formal distribution process ensures consistent messaging, timely embargo handling, documented approvals, and traceable delivery to recipients. Using verified eSignature and recordkeeping frameworks preserves intent and supports legal defensibility under the ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and state electronic transaction laws such as UETA.
Typical users coordinate messaging, approvals, and distribution logistics; responsibilities vary by organization.
Multiple stakeholders — communications, legal, and product teams — should be aligned before distribution.
A clear, news-focused headline that summarizes the announcement and fits wire service character limits; supports reporter uptake and SEO.
A concise opening paragraph that answers who, what, when, where, and why and establishes the release's news value for editors.
A short company description with standardized language for consistent background information across releases and channels.
Named contact with phone, email, and availability windows so journalists can request interviews or clarifications quickly.
High-resolution images, logos, and video links with captions and usage rights, supplied in approved formats and sizes.
Signed authorization or internal approval log capturing approver identity, timestamp, and any embargo or distribution constraints.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Authentication | Email link, SMS code, or stronger MFA |
| File Format | PDF, DOCX for text; JPG/PNG/MP4 for assets |
| Scheduling | Embargo windows, timezone-aware scheduling |
| Tracking | Delivery receipts, open rates, and click metrics |
Select platforms that support scheduled delivery, secure approvals, asset hosting, and audit logging.
Ensure chosen tools produce tamper-evident signed records, retain a clear audit trail, and integrate with existing marketing stacks.
Save signed releases as PDF/A for archive compatibility and long-term readability; provide editable DOCX files for in-house records when needed.
Include a certificate of completion with signer identity, IP address, and timestamps to support auditability and legal defensibility.
Bundle logos, high-resolution images, and video files with usage terms and captions so media have clear reuse permissions.
Maintain a single, dated signed PDF that records approvals and embargo conditions for future reference.
Allow 24–72 hours for legal and executive sign-off before scheduled distribution.
Specify embargo date/time and time zone clearly to media recipients.
Submit to wire services per their schedule, often 24–48 hours pre-publication.
Plan outreach within 24 hours after release to offer interviews or clarifications.
Retractions or corrections should be issued promptly with an updated signed release if necessary.
Final copy including assets and boilerplate is ready for review.
Legal and executives complete review and sign-off before scheduling.
Release is scheduled and sent to media and wire services at the specified time.
Collect pickup, open, and engagement metrics for evaluation.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No limit | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |