This guide provides technical instructions for the "Offline" signing workflow, allowing recipients to execute documents using physical media while maintaining a centralized digital audit trail.
Prerequisites
- Access to a valid IUSign signing invitation link.
- Access to a local printer and a high-resolution scanning device (or mobile camera).
- Note: This feature must be explicitly enabled by the sender for the specific envelope.
Strategic Overview
The Offline Signing protocol (also known as Print and Sign) bridges the gap between traditional paper-based workflows and modern digital logistics. While digital-first execution is the IUSign standard, certain legal jurisdictions or recipient preferences may mandate a physical wet-ink signature. This protocol allowing a recipient to download the document, execute it physically, and then re-ingest the scanned asset back into the IUSign secure workflow. This ensures that even with a physical signature, the transaction metadata, recipient identity, and final asset are consolidated within a single, compliant digital repository.
Implementation Sequence
1. Activating the Offline Workflow
Within the Secure Signing Portal, locate the Other Actions menu and select Print and Sign (or Offline Signing).
- Method A (Upload Scan): You will print, sign, and then upload a digital scan of the completed document. This is the recommended method for maintaining the digital audit trail.
- Method B (Manual Return): You will print, sign, and return the document via physical mail. Note: This method breaks the digital real-time audit trail and is generally discouraged for high-velocity workflows.
2. Asset Ingestion and Printing
Select Download Document. The platform will generate a specific version of the document featuring unique barcode identifiers on each page. These identifiers are essential for the system to automatically re-map the scanned pages back to the correct envelope ID.
- Print the downloaded asset.
- Execute all required signatures and data fields manually using ink.
3. Digital Re-Ingestion (Scanning)
Once signed, scan the document at a minimum resolution of 300 DPI to ensure legibility and successful barcode recognition.
- Return to the IUSign portal link.
- Select the Upload Signed Document action.
- Upload the scanned PDF or image assets.
4. Verification and Submission
The IUSign engine will process the uploaded files, verify the barcodes, and re-compile the document. Review the uploaded pages to ensure they are oriented correctly and clearly legible. Select Finish to commit the physical execution to the digital audit trail.
Data Integrity and Forensic Considerations
| Feature | Hybrid (Offline/Print) | Digital (Standard) |
|---|---|---|
| Signature Type | Wet-ink (Physical) | Cryptographic (Digital) |
| Audit Trail | Manual Ingestion Event | Real-time Interaction Logs |
| Integrity Seal | Applied after scanning | Applied during execution |
| Legal Status | Fully Compliant | Fully Compliant |
Diagnostic and Resolution Protocols
| System Exception | Probable Cause | Resolution Protocol |
|---|---|---|
| Upload failed | Missing barcodes | Ensure you are uploading the exact document version downloaded from the "Print and Sign" interface. |
| Legibility warning | Low resolution scan | Re-scan the document at 300 DPI or higher and re-attempt the upload. |
| Action missing | Sender restriction | The sender has disabled offline signing for this transaction. Contact the sender to request permission. |