Document distribution and interaction with delegation of signature authority

Abstract

Improved workflows allow delegation of authority to electronically sign a document according to a delegation rule. The delegation rule specifies a document criterion and a delegate who is authorized to sign documents meeting the criterion. The criterion may be based on subject matter, document originator, or receipt time. Delegation rules can also be invoked in response to specified conditions or events, such as receipt of an automated out-of-office notification, or failure to receive any response to a signature request within a certain time. When an electronic signature system processes a document meeting the specified criterion, or detects one of the specified conditions or events, the document is sent to the delegate for signature instead of the originally intended signatory. The workflow initiator and delegator are optionally notified of such delegation before the document is sent to the delegate, thus giving him/her a degree of control over the delegation.