How to Add Reviewer, Owner, and Checked Options to a PDF Digital Signature
Question details
The user wants to know how to add specific custom options (Reviewer, Owner, Checked) to a digital signature workflow within a PDF document.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat PDF
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Customizing a digital signature process to designate specific signer roles or states in a PDF file.
- Observed behavior
- The user needs a method to configure custom signature metadata or related form states (Reviewer, Owner, Checked) either before or after digitally signing the document.
Determine whether these custom options need to be selected before signing or added as metadata after the signature is applied. Check if you are using a full PDF editor like Acrobat Pro, as standard readers may lack form creation features.
Use Custom Form Fields Linked to the Signature
Create custom form fields (Reviewer, Owner, Checked) next to the signature field before applying the digital signature, allowing the signer to select their role.
The most effective way to add custom options like Reviewer or Owner is to use standard PDF form fields. You can place radio buttons or checkboxes right next to the digital signature block.
Launch your PDF editor and navigate to the 'Prepare Form' or 'Form' tab.
Insert Checkbox or Radio Button fields into the document. Label them as 'Reviewer', 'Owner', and 'Checked'.
Add a Digital Signature field adjacent to the newly created options.
Save the document. Before applying the digital signature, signers can check the appropriate option, which will be locked in once the document is signed.
Add Custom Signature Reasons or Metadata
Configure the digital signature preferences to include custom reasons (e.g., 'I am the Reviewer' or 'I have Checked this document') embedded within the signature details.
Easily Sign and Manage PDF Forms with WPS Office
WPS Office provides a comprehensive PDF toolkit that allows you to easily add digital signatures, insert custom form fields, and manage document security without any hassle.
- 1. Open your PDF in WPS: Launch WPS Office and open the PDF document you need to sign or edit.
- 2. Access the Form Tools: Navigate to the 'Form' tab to insert checkboxes or text fields for your custom Reviewer, Owner, and Checked options.
- 3. Add a Signature: Switch to the 'Protect' or 'Fill & Sign' tab, click 'Sign', and place your secure digital signature on the document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I edit a PDF after it has been digitally signed?
Applying a digital signature generally locks the document or specific fields to prevent tampering. If you need to check options after signing, the document form fields must be explicitly configured to remain editable without invalidating the signature.
What is the difference between a digital signature and an electronic signature?
A digital signature uses a certificate-based digital ID to authenticate the signer's identity and cryptographically secure the document. An electronic signature is often just a drawn, typed, or image representation of a name without embedded security certificates.
Why can't I add custom reasons to my PDF signature?
If you are using a basic PDF reader instead of a full-featured PDF editor, you may not have the permissions or advanced tools required to edit signature metadata or add custom reasons to the preferences.
