How to Change Signing Order in DocuSign: Step-by-Step Guide

Docusign is a game-changer for businesses looking to streamline their contract signing process. But did you know that you can control the sequence in which recipients receive and sign documents? That's where signing order comes in. By setting a custom signing order, you can ensure that the right people sign off at the right time, avoiding delays and improving efficiency.

In this quick guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about changing signing order in Docusign, from the basics of sequential vs. parallel routing to advanced tips for optimizing your workflow. Plus, we'll introduce you to a new way to automate repetitive tasks like this using AI agents. Ready to take your Docusign skills to the next level and close deals faster than ever? Let's dive in!

What is Signing Order in DocuSign?

Signing order in DocuSign is a feature that allows you to control the sequence in which recipients receive and sign documents. It determines the order in which signers are required to complete their signature fields, ensuring a structured and organized signing process.

1. Sequential vs. Parallel Signing Order

DocuSign offers two types of signing orders: sequential and parallel. In a sequential signing order, each recipient must sign the document in a specific order, one after the other. This is useful when certain signers need to review and approve the document before it moves on to the next signer. On the other hand, parallel signing order allows recipients to sign the document simultaneously, without any specific order.

2. When to Use Custom Signing Order

There are various scenarios where a custom signing order is beneficial. For example, if an employee needs to sign a document first, followed by their manager's approval, you can set up a sequential signing order to ensure the proper flow. This guarantees that the manager only receives the document for approval after the employee has signed it. Custom signing orders are particularly useful in workflows that require multiple levels of review and approval.

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3. Default Signing Order

By default, DocuSign sends documents to all recipients simultaneously, without any specific signing order. This means that recipients can sign the document in any order they choose. However, if you need to enforce a particular sequence of signatures, you can easily set up a custom signing order to meet your specific requirements.

Signing order in DocuSign provides flexibility and control over the document signing process. By understanding the difference between sequential and parallel signing orders and knowing when to use custom signing orders, you can streamline your document workflows and ensure a smooth and efficient signing experience for all parties involved.

In the next section of this guide, we will dive into the step-by-step process of setting up signing order in DocuSign, providing you with all the information you need to get started.

How to Set Up Signing Order in DocuSign

Setting up signing order in DocuSign is a straightforward process that allows you to control the sequence in which recipients receive and sign documents. By following a few simple steps, you can ensure that your documents are signed in the desired order,integrate Google Docs, and minimize delays.

1. Enabling Signing Order During Envelope Setup

When creating a new envelope in DocuSign, you have the option to enable signing order. To do this, navigate to the "Recipients" section of the envelope setup and look for the "Signing Order" option. By default, it is set to "None," which means all recipients will receive the document simultaneously. To set a specific signing order, click on the dropdown menu and select "Custom."

Once you have enabled custom signing order, you can assign a routing order to each recipient using the numbering system provided. Simply enter a number next to each recipient's name to indicate the order in which they should receive and sign the document.

2. Assigning Recipient Routing Order

DocuSign's numbering system makes it easy to assign a routing order to each recipient. The recipient with the lowest number will receive the document first, followed by the recipient with the next lowest number, and so on. For example, if you assign the numbers 1, 2, and 3 to three different recipients, the document will be sent to the first recipient, then the second, and finally the third.

It's important to note that you can assign the same number to multiple recipients if you want them to receive the document simultaneously. This allows for a mix of sequential and parallel routing, depending on your specific needs.

3. Mixing Sequential and Parallel Routing

DocuSign's signing order feature provides flexibility by allowing you to combine sequential and parallel routing within the same envelope. For instance, let's say you have four recipients: A, B, C, and D. You can set the routing order as follows: A (1), B (2), C (2), and D (3). In this scenario, recipient A will sign first, then recipients B and C will sign simultaneously, and finally, recipient D will sign last.

This mix of sequential and parallel routing can be particularly useful when you have multiple signers who can review and sign the document independently, but you still need to maintain a specific order for certain recipients.

4. Sending to the Same Recipient Multiple Times

In some cases, you may need to send a document to the same recipient multiple times within the routing order. DocuSign allows you to do this by assigning the same recipient different routing order numbers. For example, you can set the routing order as follows: A (1), B (2), A (3). In this case, recipient A will sign the document first, then recipient B, and then recipient A will sign again.

This feature is handy when a recipient needs to review and sign a document at different stages of the process, such as before and after other recipients have made their contributions.

By understanding these key aspects of setting up signing order in DocuSign, you'll be well-equipped to create efficient and organized document workflows. Whether you need a simple sequential routing or a more complex mix of sequential and parallel routing, DocuSign's signing order feature has you covered.

Mastering the art of setting up signing order in DocuSign will save you time and headaches down the road. In the next section, we'll explore how to edit signing order after sending an envelope, giving you even more control over your document processes.

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Editing Signing Order After Sending

Even after you've sent a document for signing, DocuSign allows you to modify the signing order if needed. This flexibility is particularly useful when circumstances change or when you realize that the initial signing order needs adjustment. By utilizing the "Correct" option, you can ensure that your document is signed in the most efficient and logical sequence.

1. Using "Correct" to Modify Signing Order

If you need to change the signing order on an envelope that has already been sent, DocuSign's "Correct" feature is your go-to tool. This option allows you to modify various aspects of the envelope, including the signing order, as long as no recipient has taken action on the document yet.

To access the "Correct" option, navigate to the envelope in question and click on the "Correct" button. From there, you can adjust the signing order by changing the numbers assigned to each recipient, just as you would when initially setting up the envelope.

2. Limitations on Post-Signature Changes

It's important to note that once a recipient has signed the document, you can no longer modify the signing order for that particular recipient or any recipients who have already completed their actions. This limitation ensures the integrity and security of the signed document.

However, you can still use the "Correct" feature to modify the signing order for recipients who have not yet taken action. This allows you to adapt to changes in the signing process while maintaining the validity of the signatures already collected.

3. Automatic Notifications for Signing Order Adjustments

When you modify the signing order using the "Correct" option, DocuSign automatically sends notifications to the affected recipients. These notifications inform them of the changes made to the signing order and update them on their current position in the sequence.

This automatic notification system keeps all parties informed and ensures a smooth and transparent signing process, even when changes are made after the envelope has been sent.

4. Voiding and Resending for Significant Changes

In some cases, you may need to make significant changes to the signing order that cannot be accomplished through the "Correct" feature alone. For example, if a recipient who has already signed needs to be moved to a different position in the sequence, you'll need to void the entire envelope and resend it with the new signing order.

To void an envelope, navigate to the envelope details and click on the "Void" button. This action will cancel the entire signing process, and you'll need to create a new envelope with the updated signing order and resend it to all recipients.

Knowing how to modify the signing order after sending is a valuable skill that can save you time and hassle. By mastering the "Correct" feature and understanding its limitations, you'll be prepared to handle any necessary changes to the signing sequence.

In the next section, we'll explore some tips and best practices for optimizing your signing order workflow from the start, minimizing the need for post-sending adjustments. Get ready to become a DocuSign signing order pro!

Tips for Optimizing Signing Order Workflow

Establishing an efficient signing order workflow is crucial for streamlining your document signing process in DocuSign. By carefully considering the necessary signing sequence, utilizing templates, keeping the process simple, and communicating expectations, you can minimize delays and ensure a smooth experience for all parties involved. Let's explore some best practices to optimize your signing order workflow.

1. Determine Necessary Signing Order During Setup

When setting up your document for signing, take the time to carefully consider the required signing order. Identify which recipients need to sign in a specific sequence and which can sign in parallel. For example, if you're sending a contract that requires manager approval after an employee signature, ensure that the signing order reflects this requirement.

By determining the necessary signing order during the initial setup, you can avoid confusion and delays later in the process. This proactive approach helps ensure that your document is signed efficiently and by the right people at the right time.

2. Utilize Templates for Frequently Used Documents

If you frequently send documents that require the same signing order, consider creating templates with the signing order pre-configured. DocuSign allows you to save templates that include the document itself, the recipient roles, and the designated signing order.

By using templates, you can save time and reduce the risk of errors when setting up new documents. Simply select the appropriate template, add the recipient email addresses, and send the document with the pre-established signing order. This approach is particularly useful for recurring documents like contracts, agreements, or approval forms.

3. Keep Signing Order Simple and Minimal

While it may be tempting to include numerous recipients in your signing order, it's essential to keep the process as simple as possible. The more recipients involved, the higher the likelihood of delays and complications. Consider carefully whether each recipient truly needs to sign the document and whether their signature is required in a specific order.

Aim to minimize the number of recipients and keep the signing order straightforward. This approach reduces the chances of bottlenecks and ensures a more efficient signing process. If a recipient's signature is not strictly necessary, consider removing them from the signing order altogether.

4. Communicate Expectations to All Parties

Clear communication is key to a successful signing order workflow. Before sending your document, inform all recipients about the expected signing order and any deadlines or timelines involved. This proactive communication helps recipients understand their role in the process and ensures they are prepared to sign when it's their turn.

Consider including a brief explanation of the signing order in your email message or in the document itself. Clearly state who needs to sign first, who will receive the document next, and so on. By setting expectations upfront, you can minimize confusion and delays caused by recipients being unsure of their responsibilities.

Optimizing your signing order workflow requires careful planning, effective use of tools like templates, and clear communication. By implementing these best practices, you can streamline your document signing process, reduce errors, and ensure a smoother experience for everyone involved.

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You've made it this far in mastering DocuSign's signing order feature! Give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back. In the next section, we'll tie everything together and summarize the key takeaways from this guide. Get ready to become a true signing order expert! For more ways to improve your workflow, consider learning how to automate sales prospecting.

Conclusion

Mastering how to change signing order in DocuSign is crucial for efficient document management and collaboration. In this guide, you discovered:

• The definition and importance of signing order in DocuSign
• Step-by-step instructions for setting up and modifying signing order
• Strategies for editing signing order after sending an envelope
• Best practices for optimizing your signing order workflow

By implementing these techniques, you'll streamline your document signing process and avoid costly delays. Don't let a disorganized signing order sabotage your productivity - become a DocuSign signing order expert today! For more ways to improve your workflow, consider lead enrichment strategies to boost your efficiency.