MC910979 – Microsoft SharePoint eSignature: Adobe Acrobat Sign and Docusign integration will roll out globally (archived)

Product:

Microsoft 365 admin center, SharePoint, Syntex

Platform:

Online, Web, World tenant

Status:

Launched

Change type:

Feature update, User impact

Links:

421194

Details:

Summary:
The message details the global rollout of Microsoft SharePoint eSignature integration with Adobe Acrobat Sign and Docusign, eliminating the need for native SharePoint eSignature activation. It will begin in early November 2024 and complete by mid-November. Admins must enable this feature in the Microsoft admin center. The rollout is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 421194.

Details:
Before this rollout, the use of third-party providers as part of the Microsoft SharePoint eSignature pay-as-you-go platform is limited to regions supported by the native Microsoft SharePoint eSignature.
With this rollout, customers across the globe will be able to use third-party providers, wherever they are supported. Users will no longer be required to enable native SharePoint eSignature as a prerequisite for enabling either Docusign or Adobe Acrobat Sign. Pay-as-you-go must be set up to enable SharePoint eSignature, but Microsoft will not charge customers for using third-party providers.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 421194.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out early November 2024 and expect to complete by mid-November 2024.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2024-10-15

updated:
2025-01-15

Task Type

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Docu to Check

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MS How does it affect me

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MS Preperations

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MS Urgency

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Integration Issues
If the integration with Adobe Acrobat Sign and Docusign is not properly configured, users may face difficulties in initiating eSignature requests, leading to delays in document processing.
   - roles: IT Admin, End User
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=421194

User Experience Disruption
Users accustomed to the native SharePoint eSignature may experience confusion or frustration due to the change in process and the need for admins to enable the new feature.
   - roles: End User, Business Analyst
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=421194

Training and Support Needs
The rollout may necessitate additional training for users and admins to effectively utilize the new eSignature integrations, potentially leading to a temporary decrease in productivity.
   - roles: IT Admin, End User
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=421194

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced User Experience with Third-Party eSignatures
The integration of Adobe Acrobat Sign and Docusign into SharePoint allows users to choose their preferred eSignature provider without being restricted by geographical limitations. This flexibility can lead to improved user satisfaction as users can select tools they are already familiar with, streamlining their workflow.
   - next-steps: Conduct user training sessions to familiarize staff with the new eSignature options available in SharePoint. Gather feedback on user experience post-implementation to identify further improvements.
   - roles: IT Administrators, End Users, Project Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=421194

Cost-Effective eSignature Management
By eliminating the need for native SharePoint eSignature activation, organizations can reduce costs associated with unnecessary licensing fees. The pay-as-you-go model for third-party providers means that organizations only pay for what they use, which can lead to significant savings, especially for companies with fluctuating signature needs.
   - next-steps: Analyze current eSignature usage and costs to determine potential savings with the new integration. Prepare a cost-benefit analysis to present to management.
   - roles: Finance Managers, IT Administrators, Procurement Officers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=421194

Streamlined IT Administration
The ability to enable third-party eSignature providers without the prerequisite of native SharePoint eSignature reduces the administrative burden on IT. This simplifies the management of eSignature solutions and allows for quicker onboarding of new tools as business needs evolve.
   - next-steps: Update IT policies and documentation to reflect the new eSignature management process. Provide training for IT staff on the new administrative tasks associated with the integration.
   - roles: IT Administrators, Compliance Officers, Operations Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=421194

Potentional Risks**

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Data Protection**

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IT Security**

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Hypothetical Work Council Statement**

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DPIA Draft**

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explanation for non-techies**

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