Sequential Signing

What is Sequential Signing?

Sequential signing is a workflow pattern where multiple signers are assigned a specific order, and each signer receives the document only after the previous signer in the sequence has completed their portion. The document moves through the chain one signer at a time, like an assembly line.

This pattern is essential when there are dependencies between signers. For example, an employee might need to sign a request first, then their manager reviews and countersigns, and finally HR approves and signs. Each step depends on the previous one — the manager needs to see the employee's signature before deciding to approve, and HR needs to see both prior signatures.

Sequential signing also provides a built-in review process. Each signer sees the document in its current state, including any signatures already applied. This creates a natural chain of accountability and allows later signers to see that earlier required approvals have been obtained.

The main drawback of sequential signing is speed. If any signer in the chain delays, the entire process is held up. A five-person sequential signing flow where each signer takes one day results in a five-day turnaround. For this reason, sequential signing is best used when the order truly matters, and parallel signing should be used for independent signers.