Document Preparation and Format Issues

Document formatting problems often masquerade as signature issues. Complex documents with forms, embedded media, or special fonts might not display correctly in signature platforms. PDF/A archives restrict features to ensure long-term preservation but might remove interactive elements users expect. Converting between formats can lose information or introduce artifacts. Best practices involve testing documents in target signature platforms before widespread distribution and providing guidance on supported formats and features.

Form field detection and mapping create frustration when signature platforms cannot identify where signatures belong. Automatic field detection works well for standard documents but fails with unusual layouts or scanned images. Manual field placement requires document preparation time that users might not anticipate. Template creation streamlines repeated document types but requires initial setup effort. Organizations should invest in proper template creation and provide clear documentation for document preparation requirements.

Large document handling pushes platform limits. Multi-hundred page contracts or documents with high-resolution images might exceed size limits, timeout during upload, or cause browser crashes. Mobile devices particularly struggle with large documents due to memory constraints. Solutions include document optimization before signing, splitting large documents when possible, and setting realistic expectations about platform limitations. Progressive loading and streaming technologies help but aren't universally supported.