Acrobat signature vs. signature block: What’s the difference?
So, your important document is ready to be sent off and signed? All you need to do is add a signature.
There’s a problem, however. You know how to add digital signatures to PDF documents.
But you’re not sure which form of signature to use. This is a familiar experience for lots of people.
We’re going to compare two popular field options: Acrobat signature Vs. signature block. Let’s start by looking at each option separately.
What is a signature field?
A signature field is an area of a document for a user to input their signature.
There are multiple ways for a user to input a digital signature into the field.
They can type manually or write their signature using their mouse, finger, or a stylus.
There are several options that allow you to create an electronic signature in Adobe. Let’s take a look at these options in more detail:
Signature
This is the most basic signature field.
This option adds a field that a user can click in to add their eSignature.
This option is ideal for adding to formal documents (although you might first need to learn how to add a signature to PDF documents).
Initials
As you’ve probably guessed, this option prompts a user to enter their initials.
Alongside initials, this option also requires a user to add their signature.
Stamp
This option “stamps” a document with a company seal or other image.
Stamp signatures can serve two purposes. They can work as a signature on their own. Or, they can be used alongside a personal signature.
Digital signature
This option adds an extra layer of authenticity to a field.
Adobe Sign adds a third-party certificate validating a signature.
How will a user access your document?
When choosing a signature field, it’s important to consider the user. Is a field easy to access from multiple devices?
Does it give the recipient confidence that their signature is legally-binding?
Remember, too, to provide materials to make sure they know how to sign correctly.
For example, you might need to explain how to sign a PDF on Android.
What is a signature block?
A signature block is an area of text often found at the bottom of an email or newsletter.
This form of signature field is personalized for the sender. You would include a signature block to allow a recipient to learn about the author.
For instance, you might include contact information such as an address and phone number.
This way you don’t have to input your details each time you send an email.
When you want to create a signature block in Adobe Sign, you can choose fields. For instance, you can add company names and title fields.
Signature fields vs. signature blocks in Acrobat: Differentiating the two
When comparing Acrobat signature vs. signature block, remember that a signature block is itself a signature field.
When you create an electronic signature in Adobe, ask yourself which signature field will work best for you. Remember, there are a lot of options, each serving different purposes.
If you’re sharing contact details with the recipient, a signature block is an ideal choice.
You may want to consider other signature options for separate needs.
Remember, too, that you’re not limited to only one signature field.
For instance, you might add a signature block and a stamp.
Signature block limitations
Sadly, signature blocks aren’t perfect. Below we’ve limited some of the downsides and limitations to signature blocks:
Only suit certain situations
Signature blocks are not multi-purpose.
They’re useful when sharing information about the sender. They aren’t designed for other tasks such as collecting signatures.
If you want to collect signatures, you’ll need to look for other signature field options.
PandaDoc makes it easy to get legally-binding signatures on forms. You can also access over 100 templates, ensuring your form meets your needs.
Lack of trust
People are becoming increasingly wary of the threat of cybercrime and who can blame them? Many organizations are affected by the issue.
An estimated 66% of small to medium-sized businesses have experienced a cyber attack in the past 12 months. In particular, people are wary of fraud.
Your signature block might contain contact details. But a recipient may still be wary that details have been forged.
This is a particular problem for start-up businesses, making it hard to acquire new customers.
Errors in software
Most people rely on automated software for their signature blocks.
This means that they don’t have to add a block manually each time they send an email.
But automated software can run into problems.
This is especially the case when you add an image such as a logo to your block. Images that aren’t properly set up can have an incorrect size or be obscured.
Easily secure eSignatures with PandaDoc
There are many signature field options that allow you to sign an electronic form.
A signature block is only one of many.
When comparing Acrobat signature Vs. signature block, think about your needs. Which signature field best suits your goals?
Remember, PandaDoc is a legally-binding, ESIGN and UETA-compliant signature option.
Want to test the software without committing?
No problem! PandaDoc offers a free 14-day trial.