Digital signatures — create and transmit legally binding digital documents.
First, a key distinction: a true digital document is the result of a certified digital process — a genuine electronic record. This is completely different from a scanned paper document, a graphical signature image, or an email footer signature, none of which carry legal validity.
With that out of the way, let us focus on what really matters:The process typically involves two steps: creating the document (usually as a PDF) and applying the digital signature — along with an optional timestamp. The result is a certified digital original that can be transmitted electronically without alteration, since the signature guarantees its integrity end to end.
Transmission and Archiving
A digitally signed document can only be transmitted digitally — printing it strips it of its legal value, reducing it to the equivalent of an uncertified photocopy. Standard email is perfectly sufficient for transmission, since the document already carries its own authentication. It is equally important to note: a document does not become signed simply by being sent via a certified email channel (PEC).
Although handwritten signatures remain common for finalising contracts, digital (qualified electronic) signatures have long been legally equivalent — provided they are applied correctly.
The qualified electronic signature — also known as a digital signature — is the result of a certified cryptographic process that guarantees the authenticity and integrity of digital documents.
Beyond eliminating paper waste, in a world where in-person meetings are increasingly rare, digital signatures have become an indispensable business tool.
In this context, Digiway has developed a complete solution for producing and transmitting digitally signed documents across all major email platforms.