Simple Sign vs. WillowSign: Choosing the Right Signature Tool
When to Use
| Use Case | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Internal approval or informal acknowledgment | ✅ Simple Sign |
| Legally binding signatures with audit trail | ✅ WillowSign |
| Need to place multiple free-form signatures | ✅ Simple Sign |
| External parties need to sign documents | ✅ WillowSign |
| Require sealing document with a digital certificate | ✅ WillowSign |
How It Works
Simple Sign
Used within the Willow360 interface.
User drags and places signature(s) directly on the document preview.
Can also add labels (e.g. date, title).
Signature stored and reused from previous uses.
File is sealed with Willow360’s digital certificate.
WillowSign
Launches a formal signing process via the SignWell service.
Prepares the document by placing signature fields.
Sends signing invitations via email to internal or external signers.
Tracks signing progress and applies a legally binding digital certificate after completion.
Key Rules & Considerations
Simple Sign
Only one signer needs to complete the signature for the file to proceed.
Maximum signature image size: 5MB.
File preview must be fully loaded before signing.
No legal compliance beyond internal auditing.
WillowSign
Costs 3 additional credits per signing session (charged when signers are confirmed).
Allows external signers (non-Willow360 users).
All signers must complete for file to proceed.
Legally binding under E-Signature Compliance (SignWell).
Any action after WillowSign that modifies the file (e.g. Stamp, Highlight) will break the digital certificate.
Configuration Notes
| Feature | Simple Sign | WillowSign |
|---|---|---|
| Configurable Fields | Signature and labels placed manually | Fields (signature, date, input) placed during setup |
| External Signers | ❌ Not supported | ✅ Supported |
| Credits Used | ❌ Costs no additional credits | ✅ Costs 3 additional credits |
| Digital Certificate | ✅ Willow360 certificate | ✅ SignWell certificate (stronger legal compliance) |
Best Practices
Use Simple Sign for fast, internal workflows where a signature is a formality.
Use WillowSign when you need traceability, legal standing, or need to involve third parties.
Place WillowSign as the last modifying step in a workflow to avoid breaking its certificate.
Train external users on what the WillowSign email looks like to reduce friction.
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Resolution |
|---|---|
| Signature not appearing (Simple Sign) | Ensure file preview is fully loaded before signing. |
| WillowSign email not received | Ask signer to check junk/spam folders. Resend from file history. |
| Digital certificate warning (WillowSign) | Ensure no modifying actions follow WillowSign in the workflow. |
| Signing link expired (WillowSign) | Links last 90 days. Reinitiate the signature if needed. |
Related Articles
Using WillowSign to Legally Sign Documents
FAQs
Q: Can both Simple Sign and WillowSign be used in the same workflow?
A: Yes, but WillowSign should always come after Simple Sign to avoid certificate issues.
Q: Can a signer reuse their signature in both tools?
A: Yes, but signatures are stored separately. In Simple Sign, users manage their signature library directly. WillowSign uses the SignWell interface.