This guide provides technical instructions for configuring the execution sequence of a document transaction within the IUSign Enterprise platform.
Prerequisites
- Successful initialization of an envelope and asset ingestion.
- Assignment of multiple recipients to the transaction.
Strategic Overview
The Routing Order defines the logical sequence in which recipients are invited to interact with a document. IUSign supports two primary orchestration models: Sequential Routing and Parallel Routing. Choosing the appropriate model is essential for aligning the digital transaction with organizational approval hierarchies and legal requirements. By effectively managing the routing order, administrators can automate complex business processes and ensure that high-value documents follow a predefined path of accountability.
Implementation Sequence
1. Activating the Routing Logic
Within the Recipients module of the envelope editor, enable the Set Signing Order toggle. This initializes the numerical sequencing interface.
2. Sequential Routing (1 → 2 → 3)
In a sequential workflow, recipients are assigned unique, ascending order numbers.
- Logic: The system dispatches the invitation to Recipient 1 first. Recipient 2 only receives their invitation after Recipient 1 has successfully executed all required fields.
- Use Case: Ideal for hierarchical approvals (e.g., An employee signs a contract, followed by their manager, followed by the HR Director).
- Audit Impact: The timeline clearly demonstrates a chain of custody where each party reviewed the document in a specific order.
3. Parallel Routing (1, 1, 1)
In a parallel workflow, multiple recipients are assigned the same order number (usually "1").
- Logic: The system dispatches invitations to all "Order 1" recipients simultaneously. Any participant can sign at any time without waiting for others.
- Use Case: Ideal for multi-party agreements where the sequence of signature is irrelevant (e.g., a board resolution where 5 directors need to sign).
- Efficiency: Parallel routing significantly reduces the total turnaround time for a transaction by removing sequential bottlenecks.
4. Hybrid Routing (Complex Orchestration)
IUSign allows for the creation of hybrid workflows that combine both models:
- Example: Order 1 (Parallel: 3 Recipients) → Order 2 (Sequential: 1 CEO).
- Logic: Three stakeholders can sign at any time; once all three have finished, the CEO is automatically invited to provide the final approval.
Data Integrity and Visibility
| Routing Mode | Recipient Visibility | Notification Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Sequential | Recipients see previous signatures. | Dispatched upon previous completion. |
| Parallel | Recipients see signatures as they occur. | Dispatched immediately upon envelope send. |
| Hybrid | Depends on the current active order. | Triggered by the completion of the previous stage. |
Strategic Considerations for Enterprise Users
- Identifying Bottlenecks: In a sequential workflow, a single unresponsive recipient can stall the entire transaction. Use the Tracking Interface to monitor progress and Send Reminders to the current active signer.
- Carbon Copy (CC) Placement: You can assign a CC recipient to any stage in the order. If they are at Order 1, they get a copy immediately; if at Order 10, they only receive it after the final signature.
- Cloning for Efficiency: For frequent multi-stage workflows, utilize Templates to save the pre-configured routing order and recipient roles.
Diagnostic and Resolution Protocols
| System Exception | Probable Cause | Resolution Protocol |
|---|---|---|
| Recipient hasn't received link | Routing order logic | Verify if there are previous signers in the order who have not yet finished. |
| Wrong person signing first | Parallel configuration | If you intended a specific sequence, ensure each recipient has a unique, ascending order number. |
| Skip a signer | Personnel change | Use the Correction protocol to remove or re-sequence a recipient without voiding the envelope. |