Rubric: what it is, advantages and how to create your [STEP BY STEP]

Nowadays, it is common to confirm the reading and acceptance of documents quickly and efficiently. To this end, the rubric began to be used as an aid element to ensure that no page of the physical document was modified, replaced, or even added, after all the signatures were finalized.

Although it does not represent a central element in the authenticity of the document's signers, the rubric can still be an important indicator of consent when it comes to electronically signed documents.

In this sense, let's explore the concept of a rubric, understanding what it is, what its main benefits are, and how to create your own. Also, understand more about the electronic rubric and how it differs from the traditional rubric.

What is a rubric?

A rubric is an abbreviated personal mark, generally formed from the initials of the name, used as a form of simplified signature. It was commonly used as a security factor for the integrity of the signed document.

For example, if a person's name is João Bosco Silva, their rubric may be their first name or initials, such as JBS.

Advantages of using rubrics

The use of rubrics remains popular even in digital authentication environments. Some of its main advantages are:

Confirmation of reading clauses

The rubric makes it possible to reinforce that the signer agrees with specific clauses of the document to be signed. Those who submit the document for signatures can define which clauses require scientific reinforcement and acceptance.

Full view of the document

When requesting rubrics on every page of the document, the signer is required to view the content in its entirety.

Ease of use

The traditional rubric, i.e. physical, is easy to use and can be formalized quickly in documents. The facility is further optimized in its digital form, where the rubric can be performed automatically, with just one click the signer can also add it to every page of the document.

Visual identification

The rubric can be used as a form of visual identification, making it easier to recognize a person or company in documents or correspondence.

Personalization

The visual identity of the rubric can be customized according to the preferences of each individual, making it unique and differentiated.

How to create a rubric [STEP BY STEP]

If you want to create your own rubric, check out the following step by step and some practical examples to help you with this task.

Step 1: Choose a template

Before you start writing, it's important to choose a rubric template that you like and that's easy to write. Some popular models include:

Initials: You can write only the initials of your name.

Geometric shapes: simple designs, such as circles, squares, or triangles.

Elaborate designs: more elaborate designs, such as flowers, hearts, or animals.

Step 2: Customize the rubric

Add personal details to your rubric, such as your name or initials, to make it unique and distinctive. You can also customize an additional design to make it even more personal.

Step 3: Practice

It's important that your rubric can be easily read. Practice writing it multiple times to feel comfortable and make it legible. It's important that you're familiar with the template you choose so that you can write quickly and efficiently, following the same pattern every time.

Step 4: Use

Finally, when you're ready, start using your rubric in documents, forms, and other types of written communication. Some examples include personal correspondence, payment forms, contracts, and other official documents.

What is the difference between the traditional rubric and the electronic rubric?

The traditional, analogical rubric has become a cultural practice that can serve to ensure that no page of the physical document has been tampered with or inserted after the end of the signatures. The electronic rubric, on the other hand, emerged from this culture and reproduces, in the digital world, an analog experience.

Although the electronic rubric is not a relevant factor for authenticity of the signer and document integrity, which are already provided by the electronic signature platform, can be useful to reinforce that the signer agrees with a specific clause.

Coupled with the electronic signature, the electronic rubric can be used from any device connected to the internet, making it possible to validate documents from anywhere and at any time. This allows for more flexibility and convenience for subscribers.

In Clicksign, for example, the electronic rubric can be added when configuring document submission, choosing the document fields in which it should be placed.

If you want to digitize your processes and accelerate the way you close contracts, learn more about electronic signatures and Try Clicksign for free!