2-minute read
Updated: December 23, 2024
As usual, the answer is not clear-cut and depends on many factors.
Arguments for printing:
- Habit and a sense of security: Many people feel more secure with a physical copy of an important document that can be „touched.” A printout gives a sense of reality and tangible proof of a contract.
- Easier access: In the event of a system failure, power outage or internet access, a paper version of the contract is always at hand. No need to log into the system or worry about software compatibility.
- Presentation in court: Although an electronic signature has the force of law equal to a handwritten signature, in practice courts still more often operate on paper documents. A printed contract with proof of verification of a qualified signature can facilitate and speed up court proceedings -. webnotarius https://www.certum.pl/pl/webnotarius/
Arguments against printing:
- Costs and ecology: Printing generates costs (paper, ink, energy) and negatively affects the environment. In an era of increasing environmental awareness, it is worth reducing paper consumption.
- Archiving and storage: Paper documents require adequate storage space, and archiving them can sometimes be a hassle. Paper accumulation means additional space, binders and, in the case of large companies, entire archives.
- Risk of damage or loss: Paper documents are prone to destruction (flooding, fire) or loss.
So what to choose?
The decision to print an electronically signed contract depends on individual needs and preferences. If you care about paier access to the document (ease of operating on a paper version) then printing will be essential. However, if the priority is economy, ecology and convenience, bet on digital archiving.
Remember
- Safe storage: Keep digital versions of contracts and confirmations in a secure location, such as on a hard drive, in the cloud, using document management software.
- Backups: Back up your data regularly to avoid losing it in the event of a disaster.
- Signature verification: Make sure you have the right software to read and verify electronic signatures.
In the era of digital archiving, printing contracts is not a necessity, but it can be a practical solution in some situations. Choose the option that best suits your needs.