Performance Intent Document
What the Performance Intent Document Is and Why It Exists
Why a Clear Performance Intent Document Matters
Using a Performance Intent Document establishes measurable expectations, reduces ambiguity, and provides a reference point for performance assessment, dispute resolution, and regulatory review.
Who Typically Prepares and Reviews This Document
Typical users include procurement, project managers, and contract administrators who manage delivery expectations and oversight.
- Procurement teams aligning vendor service-level agreements with contract terms and acceptance criteria.
- Project managers tracking milestones, deliverables, and performance metrics during execution.
- Legal and compliance teams reviewing enforceability, remedies, and maintaining audit-ready documentation.
Internal teams and external vendors both rely on the document to align responsibilities and preserve an audit-ready record for compliance and disputes.
Step-by-Step: Complete the Performance Intent Document
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01Prepare Draft: Assemble scope, metrics, timelines, and payment terms.
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02Review Internally: Legal and project leads confirm enforceability and clarity.
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03Send for Signature: Upload document to eSignature platform and assign signers.
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04Record and Store: Save signed copy and audit trail for retention.
How Electronic Signing Works for This Document
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Upload Document: Sender uploads final PDF or DOCX to the eSignature platform.
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Place Fields: Sender adds signature, date, and required data fields.
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Authenticate Signer: Signer authenticates by email link, SMS code, or higher assurance.
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Capture Audit Trail: System records timestamp, IP, and action log with signed copy.
Configure an Online Workflow for the Performance Intent Document
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Template Naming | Use descriptive names and version numbers for tracking |
| Authentication | Choose email, SMS code, or KBA per risk level |
| Conditional Fields | Show fields only when applicable to reduce signer errors |
| Reminders and Expiry | Set automatic reminders and expiration windows for signers |
Technical Considerations for eSubmission and Storage
Confirm the platform supports required authentication, audit trails, and file formats before eSubmitting the document.
- Integrations: Salesforce, NetSuite, Microsoft 365 supported
- File Types: PDF, DOCX, HTML and Excel input/output
- Security: TLS in transit; AES-256 at rest
eSignature Pricing and Key Feature Comparison
| 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 by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Business Premium) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes (BAA available) | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Key Penalties and Risks to Watch
Typical Timelines and Deadlines to Track
Request Submission Deadline:
Date by which the initiating party must deliver requirements
Effective Date:
Contract start date that triggers obligations
Milestone Due Dates:
Specific performance checkpoints with acceptance windows
Performance Review Dates:
Scheduled reviews for measured KPIs and adjustments
Notice Periods:
Time allowed to cure deficiencies before remedies
Practical Tips for Accurate, Efficient Completion
Common Preparation Errors to Avoid
- Vague KPIs that lack units or pass/fail thresholds often lead to disputes and unenforceable obligations.
- Mismatched party names and signer IDs can delay notarization, authentication, or acceptance by third parties.
- Omitting effective dates or milestone specifics creates disagreement about when obligations begin and end.
- Failing to capture the audit trail or signer authentication weakens legal attribution under ESIGN and UETA.
Who Signs and Who Approves
Contracting Manager
The contracting manager prepares the document, coordinates internal reviews, and confirms that operational teams accept the specified KPIs and reporting cadence before sending for signature.
Legal Counsel
Legal counsel reviews enforceability, liability, and remedial language; confirms signatory authority and retention requirements, and advises on state-specific notarization or witness needs when applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions and Solutions
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Can this be signed electronically?
Yes. Electronic signatures are generally legally enforceable under the ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and UETA where adopted. Ensure the four ESIGN validity elements — intent, consent, attribution, and retrievability — are met. Note statutory exceptions like wills and certain court filings.
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Is notarization required for this document?
Notarization depends on the transaction and state law. Real estate conveyances and some powers of attorney typically require notarization. If required, use either in-person or remote online notarization following the state’s RON rules and identity-proofing standards.
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How do I verify signer identity?
Collect robust evidence: email, SMS or KBA authentication, government ID checks, and an audit trail with timestamp and IP address. For higher assurance, use multi-factor authentication or PKI-based digital signatures where accepted by regulation.
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What if the signer’s name differs from ID?
Correct the document to match the legal name or add an explanatory affidavit. Platforms that support identity verification reduce friction; notarization may still require the exact name shown on an ID.
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Which signNow plan supports bulk sends?
Bulk send capability is included with signNow’s Business Premium plan; Site License pricing is available for very high-volume senders charged per signature invite. Confirm plan features before deploying mass distribution.
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How long must I keep signed copies?
Retention depends on subject matter: follow IRS, HIPAA, and SEC rules. A common minimum is active term plus three years; keep HIPAA-protected records for six years and follow longer industry or state mandates as applicable.