Evaluating the Usability of Qualified Electronic Signatures: Systematized Use Cases and Design Paradigms

Abstract

Despite being legally equivalent to handwritten signatures, Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES) have not yet achieved significant market success. QES offer substantial potential for reducing reliance on paper-based contracts, enabling secure digital applications, and standardizing public services. However, there is limited information on their usability despite the extensive range of use cases. To address this gap, we systematize QES use cases and categorize the system designs implemented to support these use cases, emphasizing the necessity to evaluate their respective strengths and weaknesses through usability studies. Additionally, we present findings from cognitive walkthroughs conducted on use cases across four different QES systems. We anticipate that this work will serve as a foundation for a significant expansion of research into the usability of Qualified Electronic Signatures.