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

TL;DR

This paper systematically categorizes QES use cases and system designs, evaluates their usability through cognitive walkthroughs, and aims to foster further research to improve their market adoption.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive classification of QES use cases and design paradigms, and provides initial usability evaluations through cognitive walkthroughs.

Findings

Identified strengths and weaknesses of different QES system designs

Conducted cognitive walkthroughs across four QES systems

Highlighted the need for usability-focused research in QES adoption

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.