Signing employment contracts with a single click: ETH introduces electronic signatures
As part of its efforts to maintain its reputation as an innovative and attractive employer that promotes forward-thinking solutions, ETH Zurich has introduced electronic signatures for employment contracts, reducing bureaucracy and speeding up HR processes.
New contracts, contract extensions and contract amendments: Each year, HR Operations issues roughly 16,000 employment contracts – an average of 61 contracts per business day. Numerous processes related to the onboarding of new employees are already fully digitalised, such as approvals and data collection. The employment contract is the final link in this now fully digital chain. Previously, all contracts were printed, signed by hand, posted, and had to be returned and scanned. These tasks are now a thing of the past.
Safe and seamless integration provided by a Swiss partner
Given the sheer number of contracts, seamless integration into existing processes was crucial when selecting an e-signing solution. It was essential to choose a system that would genuinely save time for HR Operations. ETH teamed up with Skribble, a Swiss provider of e-signing solutions. With Skribble, existing processes and systems required no modification, and the workflows for creating contracts, sending them electronically, applying electronic signatures, and storing them in the employee's personnel file are now fully digital.
Another crucial factor in selecting the right solution was data security. Handling sensitive data, such as employment contracts, is particularly critical and must meet the highest security standards. Therefore, a comprehensive cloud assessment was conducted in collaboration with experts from IT Services. Lea Zwimpfer, Head of HR Operations, is pleased with the outcome: "The entire project was a very positive experience. The project team was extremely competent, and we worked together seamlessly. It was great to see that all departments were eager to contribute to the project's success and willing to adopt a standard solution."
“I look forward to further projects aimed at advancing digitalisation even more.”Lea Zwimpfer, Head of HR Operations
How this changes the procedure for employees
The introduction of e-signatures via Skribble brings several practical innovations for employees. The invitation to sign contracts electronically is sent directly to the employee's personal email address. During the process, employees must enter their mobile phone number for two-factor authentication. Contracts can then be signed securely and easily by electronic signature from anywhere in the world. This not only reduces administrative effort but also significantly increases flexibility for all parties involved.
Further information
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