Ideally, you want managing contracts and eSignatures to be simple, but that’s not always the case. Lots of teams run into issues when using Docusign, like glitches, limits, integration issues, slow support, and more. The result? Wasted time, added costs, and a heck of a lot of stress.

Here’s the good news: PandaDoc is a great alternative to Docusign that can solve all of these pain points with our user-friendly features, giving you more speed, flexibility, and reliability.

Let’s take a closer look at the most common Docusign issues, how you can try to troubleshoot them, and why switching to PandaDoc is the faster fix.

Troubleshooting common Docusign issues

1. Software glitches: How PandaDoc ensures reliable access

The issue: Docusign sometimes has software glitches that make it nearly impossible for users to access the documents they need. This could be due to the software itself or the user’s computer.

What you can try in Docusign: Clear your cache, update your browsers, or reinstall the app to see if the error goes away.

The PandaDoc solution:

• PandaDoc is browser-based and cloud-native, so there’s no software to install.
• If a document doesn’t open, you can resend via email, link, or PDF instantly.
• Auto-save means no progress is lost if something goes wrong.
• Accessible on any device, anywhere without setup headaches.

Example: If a user says they can’t access a Docusign doc, it’s possible that the sender has to troubleshoot or wait for the user to fix it. With PandaDoc, you can simply resend the necessary document as a link or PDF, avoiding technical delays or lost deals.

2. Bulk send and premium features

The issue: Because Docusign only allows bulk send at their Enterprise tier, this is a strong blocker for smaller teams.

What you can try in Docusign: The only answer here is to upgrade to the Enterprise tier to unlock this feature.

The PandaDoc solution:

• Bulk send comes standard with the PandaDoc Business plan.
• You can upload a CSV of contacts and PandaDoc automatically creates unique docs for each.
• Add merge fields to personalize your documents at scale.
• Track each document’s status individually.

Example: Say you want to send the same doc to 50 people; you’d need to upgrade to the Enterprise plan in Docusign. However, with PandaDoc, a CSV upload is all it takes to send all 50 of those personalized contracts at once, with no extra costs. Pretty great, right?

3. Salesforce and eSignature integration

The issue: Docusign integrates with Salesforce, but because it doesn’t build deeper workflows it can be limited.

What you can try in Docusign: You can try to set up Docusign’s Salesforce integration with custom fields. Be aware that this kind of syncing could take a lot of extra time and effort.

The PandaDoc solution:

• PandaDoc offers a deep native Salesforce integration, so you can build and send docs right inside Salesforce.
• Auto-fill data from Opportunities, Contacts, or Accounts.
• When a doc is signed, the CRM updates automatically.
• Conditional logic lets templates adapt dynamically.
• Built-in eSignatures, approvals, and workflows, which means no CLM add-ons are required.

Example: By using Docusign, you’d have to bounce between Salesforce and the Docusign platform with limited sync. PandaDoc, on the other hand, allows users to create proposals directly in Salesforce, send for eSignature, and see every deal stage update immediately. All of this can be done without leaving your CRM.

4. Envelope limits

The issue: Because Docusign has envelope quotas, you need support or a plan change to keep sending documents once you’ve hit your limit, which is not ideal.

What you can try in Docusign: Monitor your usage and buy more envelopes when needed.

The PandaDoc solution:

• PandaDoc has no envelope limits!
• You can send as many docs as you want without worrying about quotas or hidden fees.
• Void, resend, or edit drafts instantly without regenerating.
• Get real-time tracking for every recipient.

Example: When a Docusign envelope is voided or it expires, you might have to regenerate it or contact support to continue. Because PandaDoc has no envelope restrictions, you can simply hit resend and keep moving.

5. Redlining and collaboration

The issue: When it comes to working in Docusign, redlining refers to downloading docs, editing in Word, and uploading again. This easily creates confusion and version control issues.

What you can try in Docusign: You can try to download, revise offline, and re-upload, Unfortunately, this can be messy.

The PandaDoc solution:

• Native redlining and commenting inside PandaDoc.
• You can suggest edits, leave feedback, and resolve comments in real time.
• Version history keeps track of changes.
• Control permissions so only the right people can edit or sign.

Example: You may have to juggle multiple versions offline when using Docusign. PandaDoc makes redlining collaborative. This means reviewers can comment right on the doc, edits are tracked, and you can sign the doc without ever having to leave the platform.

6. Templates and reusable documents

The issue: Users often complain how Docusign templates are often tricky to set up and rigid across different use cases.

What you can try in Docusign: You can try to build templates within the editor, but this setup can be time-consuming and more error-prone.

The PandaDoc solution:

• 1,000+ ready-to-use templates included with PandaDoc.
• You can customize easily with drag-and-drop blocks and variables.
• Reuse templates across teams for consistent branding.
• Send multiple docs individually, since you’re not forced into one envelope.

Example: Docusign templates can call for trial and error, whereas PandaDoc users can easily grab a pre-built template, make changes, and start sending off docs. This makes your workflow cleaner and more flexible.

7. Customer support

The issue: It’s often reported that Docusign support typically relies on ticket systems, with long waits.

What you can try in Docusign: The only way to address this with Docusign is to submit a ticket and wait for a response.

The PandaDoc solution:

• Live chat and email support are included, even on our standard plans.
• We offer faster response times, often under an hour.
• Our help center comes with tons of guides and videos.
• We assign customer success managers for Business and Enterprise users for more dedicated support.

Example: While a Docusign ticket could take hours or days (according to some reviews), PandaDoc users can chat with our support directly in the app. For example, you’ll be messaging a real person instead of filing a claim.

8. Changing plans and tiers

The issue: It’s been reported that switching Docusign plans typically requires contacting support and waiting.

What you can try in Docusign: Email support and wait for manual approval.

The PandaDoc solution:

• PandaDoc offers self-service plan management in your dashboard.
• You can switch tiers instantly, no support needed.
• We offer transparent pricing and features upfront.
• Changes apply right away or at the billing cycle end.

Example: If you’re trying to scale up quickly, you likely don’t have as much time to wait for support to approve a plan change, since time is always of the essence. With PandaDoc, you can log in, go to billing, and switch your plan in just a few clicks. Easy!

Why PandaDoc is your document management solution

There are certainly weaknesses of Docusign, but the main ones often boil down to limits, complexity, and delays. PandaDoc is your answer if you want unlimited sending, flexible templates, real-time collaboration, and quick support.

At the end of the day, don’t you want to spend less time troubleshooting and more time closing deals?

Ready to explore your options? Check out our guide on Docusign alternatives.

If you’re ready to see PandaDoc in action, request your free demo today.

Disclaimer

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