In a world where speed and accuracy matter more than ever, DocuSign stands out as a powerful solution for managing documents and forms digitally. More than just an eSignature tool, DocuSign helps organizations automate workflows, reduce paperwork, and improve user experience—whether you're working with Microsoft Word documents, building reusable templates, or deploying interactive web forms.

💡 Available at No Additional Cost to Emory Staff
All Emory University staff have access to DocuSign at no additional cost, making it easier than ever to streamline document workflows across departments.

DocuSign also serves as a great alternative to Adobe Acrobat for filling out forms and adding signatures. Its intuitive interface, robust field options, and automation capabilities make it ideal for both simple and complex form needs—without the hassle of manual edits or PDF conversions.

DocuSign is flexible and accessible across multiple platforms, making it easy to manage forms from anywhere. Here’s how Emory staff can get started:

Visit https://www.docusign.emory.edu and log in using your Emory credentials. From the dashboard, you can:

• Upload documents

• Create templates

• Send and track envelopes

• Access PowerForms and workflows

This version offers the most comprehensive features and is ideal for managing forms and workflows.

Working directly in Word? Use the DocuSign add-in to:

• Add signature fields to your document

• Send it for signing without leaving Word

• Track status from within the app

To install:
Go to Home → Add-ins in Word, search for “DocuSign,” and click Add.

DocuSign’s mobile app is perfect for signing documents on the go. You can:

• Receive and sign documents

• Send simple forms

• Get notifications and reminders

Download it from the App Store or Google Play, and log in with your Emory account.

❗ Note: DocuSign does not currently offer a standalone desktop application. All functionality is available through the web browser, mobile app, or integrated add-ins like Microsoft Word.

DocuSign offers a variety of tools to help manage digital forms and workflows. Here’s a quick guide to the most commonly used terms:

A digital package that contains documents to be signed. It can include:

• One or more documents

• Multiple recipients

• Signature and form fields

A self-service, web-based version of a DocuSign template. Users can:

• Fill out and sign a form via a link or embedded webpage

• Submit responses that are automatically tracked

Ideal for public-facing forms like applications or service requests.

A reusable form setup that includes:

• Predefined documents

• Assigned roles (e.g., signer, approver)

• Standardized fields and logic

Templates save time and ensure consistency.

Often used interchangeably with PowerForm, a web form is any DocuSign form that can be accessed and completed online without a direct email invitation.

Assign different roles to people involved in the signing process:

• Signer: Adds their signature

• Approver: Reviews and approves

• CC: Receives a copy for reference

Interactive elements placed on a document, such as:

• Signature

• Date

• Text box

• Checkbox

• Dropdown

Fields can be required, conditional, or pre-filled.

Defines the sequence in which recipients receive the envelope. You can:

• Set a strict order (e.g., Manager → HR → Employee)

• Allow parallel signing

• Add conditional routing based on form input

DocuSign is already helping departments across Emory streamline their workflows. Here are some common use cases:

• New hire paperwork

• Employee change requests

• Exit checklists

• Faculty appointment letters

• Student research agreements

• Course registration exceptions

• Purchase approvals

• Travel reimbursements

• Grant documentation

• Access request forms

• Policy acknowledgments

• Change management approvals

• IRB consent forms

• Data use agreements

• Compliance attestations

To get the most out of DocuSign, consider these practical tips:

✅ Use Templates for Repetitive Forms
Save time and ensure consistency.

✅ Leverage PowerForms for Self-Service
Let users fill out forms on their own—no manual sending required.

✅ Assign Roles and Permissions Carefully
Ensure each field is assigned correctly to avoid delays.

✅ Use Field Validation
Reduce errors with formatting rules and required fields.

✅ Test Before You Launch
Send a test envelope to verify everything works as expected.

Need assistance? Emory offers several support options:

🧭 IT Service Desk
Contact for login issues or general access problems.

📘 Training & Documentation
Explore internal guides and tutorials for using DocuSign features.

• Docusign University

• Linkendin Learninng: Docusign

• Microsoft Learn: Docusign

🤝 Departmental Champions
Reach out to local DocuSign “power users” for help setting up your first form or workflow.