How to Send a PDF for Multiple Signatures at the Same Time
Question details
The user needs to send a single PDF document to several recipients simultaneously so they can all sign the same document independently without following a strict sequence.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Sign
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Collecting signatures from multiple parties efficiently without enforcing a sequential signing order.
- Observed behavior
- Sending the document via standard email results in multiple separate signed copies, whereas a parallel e-signature workflow automatically merges all independent signatures into one final agreement.
Ensure you have the correct email addresses for all signers and that the PDF document content is completely finalized before initiating the signature request.
Configure Parallel Signing in Adobe Acrobat Sign
Use Adobe Acrobat Sign to route the document to all recipients simultaneously, automatically combining their signatures into a single final PDF.
By default, some e-signature workflows require recipients to sign one after another (sequential routing). By switching to parallel routing, all recipients receive the document at the exact same time. As each person signs, the e-signature platform collects the data and seamlessly generates a single finalized document containing all signatures.
This method completely eliminates the common issue of receiving multiple fragmented copies, which typically occurs when emailing a standard PDF directly to a group.
Open Adobe Acrobat Sign and navigate to the 'Request Signatures' or 'Send for Signature' page.
Enter the email addresses of all the recipients who need to sign the document in the provided recipient fields.
Locate the routing order toggle above the recipient list and switch it from 'Complete in Order' (sequential) to 'Complete in Any Order' (parallel).
Upload your PDF document, drag and drop the necessary signature fields assigned to each recipient, and click 'Send'.
Sign and Manage PDFs Effectively with WPS Office
WPS Office provides a robust PDF toolkit that makes it easy to add electronic signatures, fill out forms, and manage your documents securely without the heavy overhead of complex software.
- 1. Open PDF in WPS: Launch WPS Office and open the PDF document you need to sign or manage.
- 2. Access Fill & Sign: Navigate to the 'PDF' tab and click on the 'Fill & Sign' option in the top toolbar.
- 3. Apply Signature: Create or select your saved electronic signature and place it accurately anywhere on the document.
- 4. Save and Share: Save the signed PDF securely and use the built-in share feature to send it to other parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I get multiple separate copies when I email a PDF for signing?
Standard email sends a separate, identical attachment to each recipient. When they sign and reply, they are sending back their individual edited copy, resulting in multiple disconnected files instead of one unified agreement.
Can I specify exactly where each person needs to sign in a parallel workflow?
Yes. When setting up the document in a dedicated e-signature platform, you can place specific signature fields on the document and assign them to individual recipients before hitting send.
Does parallel signing save time compared to sequential signing?
Yes, because all recipients receive the document simultaneously, they do not have to wait for the previous person to finish signing. This significantly speeds up the overall turnaround time for completing agreements.
How do I know who has signed the document when sent in parallel?
Professional e-signature tools provide a real-time tracking dashboard where you can monitor the status of the document, showing exactly which recipients have successfully signed and who is still pending.
