signatures on audit paperwork

Completely agree about the digital signatures on the ILP's which is why we used docu sign last year for our AEB. 

As for the reviews ideally yes but if the learner is struggling then other confirmation was accepted from the learner such as an email or text.

Thanks 

Chris 

I agree with Chris. We use digital signature software (which also shows time of signature, etc for audit). If the learner struggles, we email them the document and ask them to forward back (so the return email contains the document) and to confirm in the body of their email that they have read and agreed with the content of the document. As this also shows the sender and time, it has been accepted at audit.

Dave

Per the discussion the other day, Actual Squiggly Lines (whether on paper or screen) are not required by the Funding Rules. A check box to confirm it's a true record is a perfectly acceptable electronic "signature".

Don't think there's ever been a *requirement* for reviews or ILPs to have them though? Enrolment Form/Learning Agreement, yes, but that's about it? And a record of them logging on to whatever system they're using would make an acceptable "register"?

Personally Id want to check the consistency of the signatures between the enrolment form and all other evidence as this is something we got questioned about for in a recent ESFA audit. 

The key with digital signatures, or authorisations, is validating that it was done by them.  The wet signature is a clear way of getting that proof categorically (as far as this can be used).  A digitial signature that is timestamped with a secure system (MIS, Docusign or Adobe for example), and a check box, but I would add that it needs to be in a way that can be 'proven' they did actually press it and someone did not do it on their behalf.  Systems where someone has to log in to be able to do this is a good example where the checkbox can be used as it would be timestamped 'behind the scenes'.  That my take on it, so I would want to check that the system in place to validate that checkbox is secure and robust.    

I'm finding that the squiggly line that is now in place for digitial signing means that signatures are no longer consistent, but the timestamping of them providers the assurance.  (Heaven forbid in 100 years when someone wants to question if my system was real or not, I could not vouch for it unless its digitally stamped!)

Paul.