The process: Your complete guide from first upload to finished agreement
The design philosophy behind Handsal is simple: It should be impossible to get lost in the process. We have created an intuitive workflow that safely guides you through each step, so you always have full control over your documents and are never in doubt about the next step. Below we walk through the full process that makes your document handling both professional and efficient.
Step 1: Initialisation and identification
Everything starts with a single click on the "Create" button. Here you lay the foundation for your case. The first thing you do is give the case a meaningful name – for example "Partnership agreement – [Client name] – 2026". This name makes it easy to find the case in your archive later.
You also have the option to add an internal description. This description is worth its weight in gold for your own use or for your colleagues, as it can contain important notes on the context of the case, special agreements or internal reference numbers that do not appear in the document itself.
Step 2: Document handling and attachments
When the framework is in place, it is time to upload the actual content. You easily drag your main document into the system. But in the real world, an agreement rarely consists of just one file. That is why Handsal gives you the option to add all necessary attachments and appendices (such as terms of sale and delivery, data processor agreements or technical specifications). By gathering everything in one package, you ensure that the recipient has the full information needed to make a decision and does not have to search through different emails for important attachments. This creates transparency and reduces the risk of errors and misunderstandings.
Step 3: Recipients and role management
When the documents are ready, you define who should be involved. You add recipients simply by entering their name and email address. Here Handsal stands out by giving you granular control over each person's interaction with the document. You can assign the following roles:
- Signer: This person has the legal authority and must complete the actual signing of the document. The case is not considered completed until everyone with this role has signed.
- Approver: A critical role for quality assurance. An approver must review and actively approve the content before the process can move on to the next phase or be completed. This is ideal if a legal consultant or department head needs to sign off on the content first.
- Viewer: This person receives a copy of the documents for information. They can follow the process but do not need to take any active action. It is perfect for keeping e.g. your accounting or customer service informed about new agreements.
Step 4: Real-time monitoring and follow-up
When the case has been sent, you do not lose control. In your Handsal portal you can continuously monitor status in real time. You can see exactly who has opened the email, who has read the documents, and who has yet to sign. We know that emails can sometimes get lost in a busy inbox or a spam filter. That is why we have built in a "Resend" function. With a single click you can send a polite reminder or a new access link to the recipient if they have lost the original email. This saves you manual typing and ensures that the process never comes to a complete standstill.
Step 5: The completed agreement
When all parties have completed their task – whether it is to view, approve or sign – the system automatically completes the case. Everyone involved receives a confirmation, and the finished, legally binding document is securely archived in your chosen Workspace, where it is always available for the future.
Need a quick walkthrough?
Need a quick walkthrough of how to add multiple approvers to a complex case? Our support team is ready to show you how to set up the perfect workflow for your company's needs. Shall we help you send your first case today?