Highlights

• Microsoft has integrated SharePoint eSignature in Microsoft Word directly, allowing users to request and manage electronic signatures without leaving the application.
• The feature enhances workflow efficiency, security, and compliance by keeping documents within the Microsoft 365 trust boundary.
• It also supports third-party integrations like Adobe Acrobat Sign and DocuSign, offering flexibility for diverse enterprise needs.

In today’s digital-first business environment, efficient document workflows are critical to maintaining productivity and ensuring compliance. Recognizing this need, Microsoft has introduced SharePoint eSignature integration directly into Microsoft Word. This new feature allows users to request and manage electronic signatures without converting files or leaving the Word application. By keeping the signing process within the familiar Microsoft 365 ecosystem, Microsoft aims to simplify document management while enhancing security and compliance.

Enhanced Features for Streamlined Workflows

SharePoint eSignature in Word offers a suite of tools designed to make document signing easier and more efficient. A standout feature is the ability to create reusable templates from Word documents. This is especially valuable for organizations that rely on standardized forms and agreements, allowing them to quickly deploy signature requests without recreating the process each time.

Audit trails and real-time notifications further enhance transparency. Email alerts keep both senders and signers updated on the document’s status throughout the process. Additionally, the signed PDF includes an embedded activity history, providing a complete, verifiable record of every action taken.

Security and compliance remain at the forefront of this integration. Administrators can precisely control who can use the eSignature feature through group policies, ensuring that only authorized users can send documents for signing. All eSignature activities are logged in Microsoft’s Preview Audit log, giving organizations a comprehensive view of system interactions and aiding in regulatory compliance.

Simplified Signing Process

Microsoft has designed the eSignature process in Word to be intuitive and user-friendly. Users begin by opening a document stored in a SharePoint site with eSignature enabled. Within Word, they can insert signature fields directly via the “Insert” ribbon. This eliminates the need for third-party apps or file conversions.

After placing the signature fields, users enter the recipients’ email addresses and, if desired, a custom message. When the request is sent, SharePoint automatically generates a PDF version of the document optimized for signing. Upon completion, the signed PDF is automatically stored alongside the original document in SharePoint, maintaining an organized and secure document repository.

Crucially, this entire workflow operates within the Microsoft 365 trust boundary, which significantly enhances data security and ensures the sensitive documents remain protected throughout the signing process.

Availability and Setup

The SharePoint eSignature feature is currently rolling out to users in the Microsoft 365 Beta and Current Channels, with general availability expected by July 2025. Organizations interested in adopting this new capability must ensure that their systems are properly configured.

To enable the feature, administrators activate it through the Microsoft 365 admin center and apply the policy “Allow the use of SharePoint eSignature for Microsoft Word.” Users also need to be on the correct Microsoft 365 update channels and use the desktop version of Word to access the full functionality.

With a few configuration steps, organizations can quickly begin using SharePoint eSignature to streamline document workflows and improve operational efficiency.

Integration with Third-Party Providers

While Microsoft’s native eSignature solution is robust, the platform also supports seamless integration with third-party providers like Adobe Acrobat Sign and DocuSign, although this feature has currently been confirmed for U.S. users only. This flexibility allows businesses that already use these services to continue doing so while benefiting from Microsoft’s unified document management.

Through these integrations, signature requests can be initiated within the familiar Microsoft 365 environment, with signed documents automatically stored in SharePoint or OneDrive. This ensures that document integrity is maintained and that businesses can meet their specific industry or regulatory needs without sacrificing workflow efficiency.

By supporting both native and third-party options, Microsoft offers a versatile platform that accommodates a wide range of enterprise requirements.

A Smarter Way to Sign

Microsoft’s integration of SharePoint eSignature into Word marks a significant leap forward in document management and workflow efficiency. By embedding electronic signature capabilities directly within Word, Microsoft enables organizations to accelerate approvals and enhance compliance, all while maintaining a seamless and secure user experience.

For businesses across industries, whether legal, healthcare, finance, or beyond, this feature offers a compelling way to modernize document handling and improve operational agility. As the rollout continues, more organizations will be able to take advantage of these capabilities and unlock the full potential of a digital-first document ecosystem within Microsoft 365.