Definition
An electronic signature is the process that allows a document to be accepted online with the same effect as a handwritten signature. The European eIDAS regulation (910/2014) distinguishes three levels: simple, advanced and qualified. Only the qualified signature, based on a certificate issued after identity verification, is automatically equivalent to a handwritten one; simple and advanced signatures are nonetheless admissible in court, the party relying on them having to prove the signatory's identity and the document's integrity (article 1367 of the French Civil Code). For a display quote or contract, a timestamped simple or advanced signature, with email address, IP address, document fingerprint and an audit trail, is common practice and settles nearly all disputes. A seasonal CDDU contract may also be signed electronically.
In practice, for the display company
A quote signed remotely in March fills the order book before competitors have sent theirs. PyroDesk has quotes, contracts, prevention plans and seasonal contracts signed on the portal, by finger or mouse, timestamps each signature with its evidence log and locks the signed PDF in the job file.