Admittedly, we came up with the term e-SaaS - Electronic Signing as a Service. However, it perfectly describes the approach of a modern application for digital signing in the form of a cloud solution. In-house server solutions are no longer fit for the future. Why? Because the cloud is secure, fast, simple and cost-effective.
e-SaaS - Electronic Signing as a Service
sproof signEurope's most innovative all-in-one solution for digital signing
For its own infrastructure, sproof sign relies on the leading European provider Scaleway, which ensures the security of the hosted data with a comprehensive catalog of measures . All of Scaleway's data centers are certified according to various norms and standards (e.g. HDS certification, ISO 27001, ISO 50001:2018, GDPR, Tier 3 Uptime Institute: 2014, SWIPO) and are subject to regular audits.
Even public companies with the highest standards of security and compliance have already recognized the benefits for themselves. For example, the Federal Accounting Agency, which is primarily responsible for the accounting of Austrian federal ministries, has decided to introduce a cloud solution for digital contract processing with sproof sign .
We do not want to make any compromises when it comes to data storage of sensitive documents. This data should be stored 100% in Europe. In our view, sproof sign meets these criteria by explicitly selecting data centers that are independent of US corporations.
Mag. DI (FH) Alexander SellnerHead of IT, Federal Accounting Agency
Cloud-based - what does that mean?
Cloud computing enables the use and provision of hardware and software via the internet. Flexible and scalable on-demand services allow users to access their applications and servers from any end device without having the required data physically "at hand".
The term "cloud" refers to the idea that data or information exists in a virtual space and can be accessed from anywhere. Users only need to be connected to a network to use online applications or access data in an online database.
What does SaaS or Software as a Service mean?
In the SaaS model (Software as a Service), users or companies are given access to pre-developed software, which they can usually subscribe to on a monthly or annual basis. The provider takes responsibility for the maintenance and further development of the software, but in doing so, companies relinquish some control over the management and customization of their applications. All data is stored and processed on the provider's servers, so users only need a stable internet connection, a browser and modern end devices such as tablets, laptops or smartphones to access the software immediately and without installation.
e-SaaS is therefore a sub-model specialized in electronic and digital signatures.
#1 Mobility - Can be used anywhere there is Internet access
With an e-SaaS solution, you can sign your documents quickly and efficiently from anywhere where there is Internet access. Regardless of whether you use a laptop, smartphone, tablet or even a desktop computer. This saves you valuable time for other tasks.
#2 Available around the clock 24/7
An e-SaaS solution is always ready for use. You can sign (qualified) or send invitations to sign around the clock. This ensures continuous processes and uninterrupted operation, which can speed up decisions and possibly even prevent lost sales.
#3 Seamless integration into other applications
Many e-SaaS solutions offer seamless integration into other workflows via their own interfaces (APIs). This means that existing systems, such as an existing document management system (DMS) or any special solutions (see DATEV) can be easily expanded to include qualified electronic signatures.
#4 Continuous improvements through automatic updates
e-SaaS solutions such as sproof sign are also constantly being developed. Bug fixes and new functions that have been extensively tested are regularly provided in the background. This means that your IT employees do not have to manually download or install updates - and can even make specific feature requests when new requirements arise.
This means that your company always benefits from the latest functions without having to make additional investments.
#5 Maximum data security
e-SaaS solutions process personal data in the corporate context as part of the signature process. The signatories must be invited, verified if necessary and the document to be signed must be presented to the signatories. When qualified digital signatures are used, external trust service providers also have to process some of this data. That is why providers such as sproof sign protect your privacy with the following measures
a) 100% GDPR-compliant
All requirements of the General Data Protection Regulation are met. The solution can therefore be used without hesitation, especially by companies within the European Union.
b) Data processing and data storage exclusively in the EU
All data is processed and stored exclusively on servers within the European Union. Data is not exchanged with service providers outside the European Union.
c) Deletion concept (privacy by default)
The solution follows the principle of "Privacy by Default". The data is automatically deleted after 30 days. If the users do not want this, the automatic deletion can usually be deactivated.
d) Contract data processing agreement
A contract for commissioned data processing - especially for corporate customers - summarizes all relevant points and ensures clarity and security.
#6 Scalability at will
Ideally, an e-SaaS solution grows seamlessly with your company, your requirements and your team. For example, if more employees need to sign qualified documents, you can usually easily adapt the corresponding license(s).
#7 Relief for your own IT department
If you opt for an e-SaaS solution, your company benefits from a complete package including maintenance and support. Your IT department is relieved and can concentrate on other important and strategic tasks in the company.
#8 Excellent user experience
Some (but unfortunately by no means all) e-SaaS solutions are designed to be highly user-friendly and offer an excellent user experience. Users can usually get started quickly, easily and without much prior knowledge. This saves your company training costs and shortens the implementation time.
#9 Efficiency and cost reduction
e-SaaS providers such as sproof sign are clearly responsible for managing, maintaining and troubleshooting their own service, so there is no need to expand your IT team. Furthermore, no additional investment is required for the purchase and maintenance of technical equipment - you do not need to expand your hardware infrastructure and are not responsible for maintaining the software.
#10 Improved employee and customer experience
With a modern e-SaaS solution, you can relieve your employees of a tedious and time-consuming (but extremely important) routine task. This will allow your team members to better focus on their core business, but your business partners and customers will also be pleased.
More blog entries
How KURZZEiTmiete optimizes its customer journey with sproof signThe greatest in hotel and catering: Hogast signs with sproof sign.eIDAS 2.0 - The redesign of digital identity and signature in Europe (March 2024)Innovative solutions for a sustainable future: the partnership between sproof sign and Energie AG OberösterreichThe digital signature 2.0 - Qualified signing across Europe without borders
