waiversign

Customer Intake Process for Tours: Why It Matters in Uncertain Times

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 07:24:39 GMT

When travelers feel uncertain, every step of your process matters more.

Your intake process is often your first real impression. Make it count.

In today’s travel environment, uncertainty has changed how guests evaluate tour operators. They are more cautious, more detail-oriented, and more sensitive to friction.

That means your customer intake process is no longer just an administrative task.

It is:

A trust-building moment
A risk management system
A conversion driver

Tour operators who use a digital waiver system can streamline their intake process, reduce friction, and create a stronger first impression for guests.

Why Customer Intake Matters More in Uncertain Travel Conditions

When confidence drops, expectations rise.

Travelers want:

Clear instructions
Smooth processes
No surprises
Fast onboarding

If your intake process feels confusing or slow, it increases hesitation. If it feels clear and structured, it builds confidence.

The intake process is often the first real operational interaction after booking. That moment shapes how guests feel about your business.

If it feels organized, trust increases. If it feels chaotic, doubt increases.

What Is a Customer Intake Process for Tour Operators?

A customer intake process is the sequence of steps that prepares a guest for their experience after booking.

It typically includes:

Booking confirmation
Guest information collection
Waiver and agreement signing
Pre-arrival communication
Check-in process

This is not just data collection.

It is part of the customer experience.

When done well, it reduces confusion, builds trust, and prepares guests for a smooth arrival.

The Hidden Risk: Where Most Tour Operators Lose Trust and Bookings

Many operators underestimate how much friction exists in their intake process.

Common issues include:

Confusing or long forms
Manual paperwork
Delays at check-in
Lack of clear instructions

These issues create:

Frustration
Uncertainty
Slower onboarding
Negative first impressions

Even if the tour itself is excellent, a poor intake experience can impact reviews and future bookings.

Friction at the start of the experience often leads to abandonment or dissatisfaction.

If your process feels outdated or disorganized, this is a high-impact area to improve.

Many of these friction points can be addressed when you improve your online waiver and simplify how guests complete forms before arrival.

Gather key details before arrival:

Names and contact information
Preferences or special requirements
Group details

This reduces delays during check-in and improves preparation.

The 6 Essential Steps of a High-Converting Customer Intake Process

Collect Essential Guest Information Early

Communicate Expectations Clearly

Set clear expectations early.

Explain:

What to bring
Where to go
When to arrive
What the experience involves

Clarity reduces uncertainty and builds confidence.

Seamless Digital Experiences

This is a critical step.

Guests should be able to:

Review agreements
Sign waivers
Confirm policies
Digitally and in advance.

Solutions like WaiverSign allow tour operators to handle waivers as part of a seamless intake process instead of a last-minute task.

Automated reminders improve readiness.

Use:

Email confirmations
SMS reminders
Pre-arrival instructions

This reduces no-shows and improves guest preparedness.

Pre-Arrival Confirmation and Reminders

Check-in should be fast and frictionless.

No:

Long lines
Paper forms
Repeated data entry

Guests should move quickly from arrival to experience.

Streamlined Check-In Experience

A strong intake process is structured, simple, and consistent.

Post-Booking Data and Follow-Up

After the experience, intake data becomes valuable.

It can support:

Customer relationship management
Marketing and remarketing
Repeat bookings

A structured intake process supports long-term growth.

Why Traditional Intake Processes Fail in Uncertain Times

Outdated systems struggle under modern expectations.

Common issues include:

Paper waivers
Fragmented tools
Manual processes
Inconsistent communication

These create:

Delays
Confusion
Increased staff workload
Lower trust

During uncertain periods, these problems become more visible.

Travelers expect clarity and speed. Traditional processes often fail to deliver both.

Understanding the electronic waiver benefits helps operators see how digital intake reduces delays, improves clarity, and enhances the overall guest experience.

How a Clear Intake Process Improves Customer Experience

Clear instructions and completed forms reduce uncertainty.

Guests arrive prepared and confident.

Reduces Anxiety Before Arrival

Builds Trust Through Transparency

When expectations are clear, guests feel informed and in control.

Speeds Up Check-In and Operations

Faster onboarding improves flow and reduces stress for both guests and staff.

A clean, digital process signals organization and reliability.

Professionalism builds trust.

Creates a More Professional Brand Experience

The Role of Digital Intake and Waivers in Modern Tour Operations

Digital systems are now essential.

Modern intake processes include:

Mobile-friendly signing
Pre-arrival completion
Multi-language support
Real-time data access

These features align with how travelers behave today. They also reduce operational friction.

Digital intake is no longer optional. It is expected.

WaiverSign helps tour operators modernize their intake system and reduce friction across the entire journey.

How WaiverSign Simplifies the Entire Intake Process

All data is stored in one place, making it easier to manage and access.

Centralized Guest Information and Waivers

Mobile-Friendly Signing Before Arrival

Guests can complete waivers on their own time, reducing pressure during check-in.

Professional, Branded Experience

A clean digital interface improves perception and builds trust.

Automated Reminders and Notifications

Guests receive clear instructions and reminders, improving readiness.

No paperwork means faster onboarding and smoother operations.

Faster, Contactless Check-In

Intake Process as a Revenue and Conversion Driver

A smooth intake process does more than improve operations.

It impacts revenue.

Less friction leads to more completed bookings
Better experience leads to better reviews
Stronger trust leads to repeat customers

Conversion is not just about traffic. It is about how easy it is for customers to move forward.

How to Audit Your Current Customer Intake Process

Use this simple checklist:

Is your intake process mobile-friendly?
Can guests complete it before arrival?
Is it clear and easy to follow?
Does it reduce wait times at check-in?
Does it build trust and confidence?

If the answer to any of these is no, there is an opportunity to improve.

Building a Future-Proof Intake System for Your Tour Business

Uncertainty is not temporary.

Customer expectations will continue to evolve.

Tour operators must:

Simplify processes
Reduce friction
Improve clarity
Adopt digital tools

A strong intake system supports both operations and growth.

Improve Your Customer Intake Experience

If you want to improve bookings and customer experience, start with your intake process.

Focus on:

Simplifying onboarding
Digitizing waivers
Reducing friction
Improving communication

You can take the next step by:

Exploring a digital waiver system
Reviewing your intake process
Improving check-in flow
Building a more seamless onboarding experience

The goal is simple. Make it easier for guests to say yes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your intake process is not just a step in operations.

It is the beginning of the experience.

How Global Uncertainty Is Changing Customer Expectations for Tours

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 07:17:46 GMT

Travelers are still booking. They are just more careful about who they trust.

The experience starts before the tour, and expectations are higher than ever.

Global uncertainty has not stopped travel demand. It has changed how travelers evaluate risk, trust, and experience before they commit.

Tour operators are no longer competing only on price or itinerary. They are competing on clarity, confidence, and ease.

Understanding how customer expectations in tourism are evolving is the first step toward staying competitive.

Tour operators that implement a digital waiver system create a smoother, more trustworthy experience before guests even arrive.

Why Global Uncertainty Is Reshaping the Travel Industry

Several factors continue to influence traveler behavior:

Economic uncertainty
Geopolitical tension
Health concerns
Travel disruptions and delays

These factors do not eliminate demand. They change how decisions are made.

Travelers are more cautious. They want reassurance before committing. They are more sensitive to risk.

Uncertainty shifts decision-making from impulse to evaluation.

The Shift: From Spontaneous Booking to Risk-Aware Decision Making

In the past, many bookings were quick decisions.

Today, travelers:

Research more
Compare more options
Ask more questions
Take longer to commit

They want to feel confident before they book. This shift impacts how tour operators must present their business.

Clarity and confidence now matter more than speed and urgency.

Travelers expect complete transparency.

They want to clearly understand:

Pricing
Inclusions
What the experience involves
What to expect on arrival
Ambiguity creates hesitation.

Clarity builds confidence.

The 5 New Customer Expectations Tour Operators Must Understand

Clarity Before Commitment

Flexibility Without Friction

Uncertain conditions increase the need for flexibility.

Travelers expect:

Easy cancellations
Clear rebooking options
Simple adjustments

If flexibility exists but is hard to understand or access, it does not build trust.

It must be visible and easy.

Seamless Digital Experiences

Modern travelers expect digital-first interactions.

They want:

Mobile-friendly booking
Fast processes
No unnecessary paperwork
Smooth check-in

Friction in digital experiences reduces confidence.

Travelers want to feel that your operation is organized and reliable.

They look for:

Clear safety processes
Professional communication
Structured operations

Preparedness builds trust.

Visible Safety and Preparedness

Trust is built through multiple signals.

These include:

Reviews and testimonials
Clear communication
Consistent messaging
Smooth onboarding

Trust is not built in one moment. It is reinforced throughout the journey.

Trust Signals at Every Step

Where Tour Operators Are Falling Behind

Many operators struggle to keep up with these changes.

Common issues include:

Paper-based waivers
Slow and manual check-in processes
Unclear onboarding steps
Inconsistent communication
These gaps create friction.

And friction reduces trust.

Even small inefficiencies can impact how travelers perceive your business.

Many of these issues can be avoided by understanding the advantages of electronic waivers over paper and how they eliminate delays, errors, and manual friction.

The Hidden Bottleneck: Customer Intake and Waiver Experience

One of the most overlooked areas is the intake and waiver process.

This is often the first real operational interaction a guest has with your business.

Common problems include:

Long forms
Manual paperwork
Delays at check-in
Confusion about what to complete

This creates a poor first impression.

If the start of the experience feels disorganized, trust decreases.

If it feels smooth and structured, confidence increases.

The waiver and check-in process is not just administrative. It is part of the customer experience.

Digital waivers help align operations with modern traveler expectations.

Businesses that focus on how digital waivers improve customer experience often see immediate improvements in check-in speed, guest satisfaction, and overall trust.

How Digital Waivers Improve Customer Experience in Uncertain Times

Guests can complete forms before arrival or quickly on-site.

This reduces:

Lines
Delays
Staff bottlenecks

Check-in becomes faster and more organized.

Faster, Stress-Free Check-In

Mobile-First Signing Anywhere

Guests can sign waivers on their phones.

This allows:

Pre-arrival completion
Flexible access
Faster onboarding

Mobile-first experiences match how travelers behave today.

Safer, Contactless Processes

Contactless workflows align with current expectations.

They reduce:

Physical friction
Delays
Uncertainty during check-in

Smooth processes feel safer and more controlled.

Multi-Language Support for Global Travelers

Digital waivers can support multiple languages.

This improves:

Understanding
Confidence
Inclusivity

Clear communication reduces hesitation.

A clean digital interface creates a strong impression.

It communicates:

Organization
Reliability
Modern operations

Professional presentation builds trust.

Professional, Branded Experience

Digital waiver systems like WaiverSign help tour operators turn a traditionally frustrating step into a seamless part of the experience.

If your check-in process still relies on paper or manual steps, this is often one of the easiest areas to improve.

Why Customer Experience Is Now a Competitive Advantage

In uncertain e nvironments, experience becomes the differentiator.

Travelers choose operators who feel:

Clear
Organized
Easy to book
Reliable

Customer experience directly influences perception.

And perception influences booking decisions.

The Link Between Experience, Trust, and Conversion

These three elements are connected.

Smoother onboarding increases conversion
Better experiences lead to better reviews
Stronger trust increases repeat bookings

When friction is removed, decisions become easier. When decisions are easier, bookings increase.

How Tour Operators Can Adapt to These Changing Expectations

You do not need to overhaul everything at once.

Start with practical improvements:

Audit your booking and check-in flow
Identify points of friction
Digitize intake and waiver processes
Improve communication clarity
Simplify onboarding steps

Focus on removing friction and increasing clarity. Small improvements can significantly impact conversion.

Future-Proofing Your Tour Business

Uncertainty is not temporary.

Customer expectations will continue to evolve.

Travelers will expect:

Faster processes
Clearer communication
More flexibility
Better digital experiences

Operators who adapt early will have a long-term advantage. Those who do not will fall behind.

Next Steps: Build a More Modern, Trust-Driven Experience

If you want to improve bookings, start with the experience.

Focus on:

Streamlining check-in
Reducing friction
Improving onboarding
Building trust through clarity

You can take the next step by:

Exploring digital waiver solutions
Improving your intake process
Reducing check-in delays
Creating a more seamless experience

Modern expectations require modern systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Customer expectations are not just changing.

They are rising.

And the operators who adapt will win.

How Digital Waivers Improve Customer Experience (Faster, Cleaner, More Professional)

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 11:38:26 GMT

Want faster check-in and happier guests? Start with your waiver process.

The easiest customer experience win is removing paperwork friction.

Most businesses invest in marketing, branding, and facility upgrades to improve customer experience. Yet many overlook the first operational moment guests encounter when they arrive: paperwork.

Clipboards. Lines. Confusion. Repeated instructions. Bottlenecks at the front desk.

Digital waivers do more than protect your business. They remove friction at the exact moment guests are checking in and getting ready to participate. Less paperwork stress, faster onboarding, cleaner mobile signing, multi-language accessibility, reduced wait times, and a more professional brand impression all combine to create a smoother experience.

If you are looking for how to improve customer experience operationally, your waiver process is one of the highest-impact places to start.

If you are actively researching how to improve customer experience, start with the moments that create friction.

Digital waivers remove paperwork stress, accelerate onboarding, and create a cleaner first impression.

Frequently Asked Questions

Improving customer experience does not always require a full operational overhaul.

Sometimes, it starts with removing the clipboard.

Guests arrive excited. They have been looking forward to the activity, event, or tour.

Then they are handed forms.

They stand in line. They search for a pen. They ask what to fill out. Staff repeats instructions. Someone misses a field. Another guest spells their email incorrectly. A form gets smudged or misplaced.

The first impression shifts from excitement to friction.

Staff becomes a bottleneck instead of a welcoming presence.

Paperwork friction is rarely considered part of the experience strategy, but it directly affects perception.

If the first two minutes feel disorganized, the entire visit feels less polished.

Digital waivers eliminate that friction.

The Customer Experience Problem Most Businesses Ignore: Paperwork Friction

1. Less Paperwork Stress for Guests

Guests follow clear prompts on their own device or a tablet. Fields are guided. Required information is clearly marked. Errors are flagged automatically.

There is no “what do I do next?” moment.

When the process feels smooth, the overall experience feels intentional.

If you are evaluating digital waivers for customer experience improvements, reducing mental friction is the first measurable benefit.

2. Faster Onboarding and Check-In

If your check-in desk becomes congested during peak hours, your waiver flow may be contributing more than you realize.

Reducing onboarding time is one of the fastest operational wins available.

If you want to see how a digital waiver experience fits into your current check-in process, a quick workflow review can reveal where friction is slowing you down.

Paperless waiver benefits start with simplicity.

With digital waivers:

No printing
No clipboards
No pens
No scanning
No manual sorting

Pre-arrival signing links
Waivers embedded in booking confirmations
QR codes posted at entry
Group waiver flow management

One of the most practical ways to improve customer experience at check-in is to reduce wait time.

Digital waivers allow:

Guests can sign before they even arrive. By the time they walk through the door, their documentation is complete.

On busy days, this dramatically increases throughput.

Instead of staff verifying paperwork manually, they confirm completion in seconds.

The result:

Shorter lines
Fewer late starts
Smoother group arrivals
Better time management

3. More Professional Brand Perception

Perception matters.

A clean, branded digital waiver communicates organization and professionalism.

Instead of loose forms and stacked clipboards, guests see:

Branded screens
Clear instructions
Consistent formatting
Modern, mobile-friendly interfaces

A digital-first process signals that your operation is structured and up to date.

For many businesses, the waiver is the first direct operational interaction after booking. That moment influences trust.

Professional presentation builds confidence.

And confidence improves overall customer experience.

4. Multi-Language Options Make the Experience More Inclusive

Tour operators and attractions often serve diverse audiences.

Paper forms in a single language create confusion for international guests or mixed-language groups.

A multi-language waiver improves clarity.

Guests can:

Read instructions in their preferred language
Understand what they are signing
Feel more confident during check-in

This reduces misunderstandings and back-and-forth explanations at the front desk.

It also demonstrates inclusivity and awareness.

When guests feel understood, they feel welcomed.

That is a direct improvement to customer experience.

5. Clean Mobile Signing That Actually Works

Mobile waiver signing is no longer optional.

Guests expect processes to work on their phones.

A mobile-first digital waiver:

Uses large, clear buttons
Minimizes typing
Avoids unnecessary fields
Loads quickly on cellular data
Adapts to small screens

In real-world environments such as parking lots, lobbies, and outdoor venues, mobile reliability matters.

If your waiver process requires printing or desktop access, friction increases.

When mobile signing is intuitive, onboarding becomes almost invisible.

And invisible processes feel effortless.

6. Reduced Wait Times and Better Flow on Busy Days

Peak days expose operational weaknesses.

When arrivals surge, paper forms amplify delays:

Staff verifies each form manually
Guests wait while others complete paperwork
Lines grow longer

Digital waivers reduce wait times at check-in by streamlining verification.

Staff can focus on welcoming guests rather than policing paperwork.

This shifts team energy from administrative enforcement to hospitality.

Better flow means:

More relaxed staff
Happier guests
Fewer complaints
Fewer rushed departures

Operational calm directly improves customer experience.

7. Safe, Trackable, and Operationally Reliable

Digital waivers also improve internal organization.

Records are:

Stored securely
Time-stamped
Easily retrievable
Organized by booking or guest

Lost forms disappear. Misfiled paperwork becomes a non-issue.

Standardized workflows reduce confusion.

Cleaner operations reduce guest disputes and misunderstandings.

When systems are consistent, experiences are consistent.

That reliability is part of how to improve customer experience long term.

If you want help mapping this into your current operations, a waiver workflow review can identify simple improvements.

What to Look for in a Digital Waiver Solution

Best Practices to Improve Customer Experience With Digital Waivers

Digital tools alone do not guarantee a smooth experience. Implementation matters.

Use Pre-Arrival Signing Links

Include waiver links in booking confirmations and reminder emails.

Encourage guests to complete forms before arrival.

Display clear QR codes at entry points so guests can sign instantly on their phones.

Add QR Codes at Check-In

Keep the Form Short and Mobile-Friendly

Only request essential information. Long, complex flows increase abandonment.

If your audience is international, provide translated options.

Offer Multi-Language Where Needed

Front-desk teams should guide guests confidently:

“Please scan the QR code to complete your waiver. It takes about one minute.”

Consistency reduces confusion.

Train Staff on a Consistent Guest Script

Add Confirmation Messaging

After signing, show clear instructions about what happens next.

For example: 

“Thank you. Please proceed to gear check-in.”

Clear transitions improve flow.

Not Optimizing for Mobile

No Clear Next Step

Your booking confirmation and waiver process should feel connected.

Disconnected systems create confusion.

Excessive questions create frustration and slow completion.

Making Guests Sign On-Site Only

Too Many Fields

Guests should always know what to do after submitting.

Common Mistakes That Hurt Customer Experience

Not Aligning Waiver Flow With Booking

Desktop-focused forms fail in real-world environments.

If guests cannot sign in advance, congestion increases.

Mobile-first signing
Multi-language support
QR code and kiosk capability
Custom branding options
Integration with booking tools and CRM systems
Simple exporting and reporting
Reliable on-site workflows

When evaluating software, focus on customer experience outcomes.

Look for:

The goal is not just digitization.

The goal is faster check-in, reduced wait times, and smoother onboarding.

If your current waiver system is slowing down your front desk, it may be time to modernize.

Improve Your Guest Experience Starting Today

They reduce wait times at check-in.
They support multi-language guests.
They improve staff efficiency.
They modernize your brand.

If you would like to see how a digital waiver experience fits your operation, request a quick waiver workflow review.

Small operational changes at check-in can produce immediate experience improvements.

Digital Waivers Tour Operators Need for Winter & Early-Year Activities

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 14:39:55 GMT

Protect Your Adventure Business with Digital Waivers

Winter and early-year activities often bring higher volume, tighter schedules, and more complex operations. For tour operators and adventure providers, digital waivers play an important role in managing registrations, improving check-in flow, and keeping operations organized during busy seasonal periods.

This blog covers the digital waivers tour operators need for winter and early-year activities, along with best practices, real-world use cases, and an example waiver designed for adventure operations.

Common Concerns About Digital Waivers

Will Guests Use Digital Waivers?

Most guests prefer completing waivers digitally, especially when they can do so ahead of time on their own devices. Mobile-friendly waivers make the process faster and more convenient for participants.

Are Digital Waivers Complicated to Set Up?

With the right tools in place, digital waivers are straightforward to set up and manage. Operators can organize waivers by activity or season without adding extra complexity to their workflow.

Do Digital Waivers Work With Booking Systems?

Many digital waiver platforms work alongside booking and registration workflows, allowing waivers to be delivered automatically as part of the booking process.

Why Digital Waivers Matter for Tour Operators Are Critical During Winter and Early-Year Peak Season

Seasonal activities introduce operational challenges that paper waivers struggle to handle. Long lines, incomplete forms, and manual tracking can slow down check-ins and impact the guest experience.

Digital waivers help tour operators:

Collect participant information before arrival
Reduce congestion during busy check-in periods
Keep registration data organized and accessible
Improve the overall guest onboarding experience

During winter and early-year seasons, when weather, daylight, and staffing all matter, having a digital waiver system in place helps operations run more smoothly.

Best Practices for Digital Waivers in Adventure Tour Operations

Streamlined Registration Forms

Well-structured forms that focus on relevant information help support a smoother check-in experience.

Common elements include:

Participant contact details
Emergency contact information
Activity acknowledgements
Parent or guardian consent when required

Mobile-First Waiver Access

Most guests complete waivers on their phones. A mobile waiver solution for tours allows participants to sign from anywhere, before they arrive.

Look for digital waivers that:

Load quickly on mobile devices
Are easy to read outdoors
Require no downloads or special apps

Using an online waiver platform allows guests to complete waivers on their phones before arrival, which helps reduce check-in delays and keeps lines moving during peak season.

Organized Data Management

Digital waivers centralize participant information, making it easier for staff to access and manage during high-volume days.

Benefits include:

Clear completion status visibility
Easy retrieval of participant records
Reduced paperwork for staff

Clear Guest Instructions

Guests are more likely to complete waivers on time when instructions are simple and clear. Automated reminders and confirmation messages help reduce last-minute issues.

Types of Digital Waivers for Tour Operators

Different activities benefit from different waiver setups. Activity-specific waivers help keep information relevant and easy to understand.

Ski Tour Waivers

Used for snow-based and alpine experiences.

Activity-specific acknowledgements
Seasonal conditions disclosures
Equipment and participation confirmations

Kayak Waivers

Common for cold-water or early-season paddling.

Water conditions acknowledgements
Swimming ability confirmation
Equipment usage guidelines

Youth Activity Waivers

Designed for camps, school groups, and youth programs.

Parent or guardian authorization
Emergency contact details
Participation and supervision acknowledgements

Corporate Event Liability Waivers

Helpful for team-building and group events.

Individual participant submissions
Group tracking for organizers
Streamlined onboarding for large groups

Winter Adventure Waivers

Ideal for multi-activity or custom winter experiences.

Seasonal activity acknowledgements
Weather-related considerations
Clear participation expectations

FAQs Digital Waivers for Tour Operators

How Digital Waivers for Tour Operators Improve Peak-Season Booking and Check-In

During winter and early-year peak periods, operational efficiency becomes critical.

Digital waivers help by:

Reducing lines and bottlenecks at check-in
Allowing staff to see waiver completion status in advance
Minimizing manual paperwork and data entry
Supporting faster group onboarding

Peak-season waiver management becomes more predictable, even during high-demand days.

How WaiverSign Supports Tour Operators

WaiverSign is built to support tour operators, adventure providers, and other activity-based businesses that need an easier way to collect waivers and manage registrations during busy seasons.

WaiverSign helps operators:

Collect digital waivers before guests arrive
Customize waivers by activity and season
Reduce check-in congestion during peak periods
Keep participant records organized and accessible
Deliver a smooth, mobile-friendly guest experience

WaiverSign is designed to support tour operations and seasonal workflows. Operators should consult their own legal or business advisors regarding waiver language and requirements for their specific activities and locations.

Get Your Digital Waiver Ready for Peak Season

Winter and early-year activities demand systems that help operations run smoothly under pressure. Digital waivers support faster registrations, better organization, and a more seamless guest experience.

If you are preparing for a busy season, now is the time to set up digital waivers built specifically for tour operators.

How Thanksgiving Point Simplified Guest Check-In with Digital Waivers from WaiverSign

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 07:52:41 GMT

Guest Check-In Made Easy with Digital Waivers

About Thanksgiving Point

Thanksgiving Point is a nonprofit organization based in Lehi, Utah, home to seven immersive museums and attractions designed to inspire curiosity and confidence through hands-on STEM learning. From the five-story Jurassic Jungle indoor playground to Canopy Tours and the 55-acre Ashton Gardens, the organization serves thousands of families each year across diverse, high-traffic experiences.

The Challenge

When Dave Coltrin , Vice President of Guest Strategy & Experience, joined Thanksgiving Point, WaiverSign was already being used at select attractions. As the organization prepared to open the new Jurassic Jungle , Dave and his team saw an opportunity to expand WaiverSign’s use across more venues and reduce reliance on paper-based waivers.

“We’ve been using WaiverSign for quite some time. That predates my time with Thanksgiving Point,” Dave explains. “When I came on board, we decided that we wanted to expand our waiver capability across more areas. We really wanted a better, more modern way of managing our waivers rather than being primarily paper-based.”

Some of Thanksgiving Point’s experiences, like the Canopy Tours, required waivers for safety and understanding of potential risks. The team needed a consistent and efficient system that supported those experiences while maintaining a smooth guest flow.

The Solution

As Thanksgiving Point prepared to launch Jurassic Jungle, the team worked with WaiverSign to expand and improve their waiver process.

Guests now have two easy ways to complete a waiver, either by scanning a QR code with their smartphone or by using a mounted tablet near the point of sale. “It’s very streamlined,” Dave says. “They’re able to decide whether they want to complete a waiver just for themselves, for minor children under their care, or for both in one session.”

This flexibility has been especially helpful for caregivers arriving with large groups. “To be able to complete that experience for a caregiver and four or five or eight kids in one session was really valuable,” Dave notes.

Initially, Thanksgiving Point used separate waivers for different attractions like Jurassic Jungle and Canopy Tours. Over time, the team consolidated to a single waiver across all venues. “That way, guests who were participating in multiple experiences didn’t need to complete multiple waivers,” Dave says. “It’s been a nice change for us.”

The Results

Streamlined Guest Experience
Digital waivers have made the guest experience smoother and faster, particularly during large events. Dave recalls one summer event in Ashton Gardens featuring bouncy houses, climbing walls, and a 250-foot inflatable obstacle course.

“We communicated in advance that guests would need to sign a waiver,” he says. “Some guests noticed the email while others did not. But those guests really appreciated being able to scan the QR code in line, fill out the waiver on their phone, and not have it add to their wait time to experience the event.”

Efficiency and Easy Access
Digitizing the process has eliminated the inefficiencies of paper handling and made it easier to retrieve records when needed. “It’s easy for me as a vice president,” Dave explains. “I don’t use the software every day, but if a guest or team member has a question, I can pull up a waiver from anytime in recent months or the past year in just a handful of seconds.”

Dave also appreciates how cleanly the system organizes adult and minor information. “I really like the simple organization,” he says. “It’s nice and efficient for us.”

Team Adoption and Ease of Use
WaiverSign has been well received across departments, with staff quickly adapting to the system. “The dashboard has just been really user friendly for us,” Dave says. “Our team can easily access the same online account to manage our waiver business and confirm that guests have filled out their waivers appropriately.”

Excellent Support

When Thanksgiving Point decided to consolidate their two waiver accounts into one, Dave reached out to WaiverSign’s support team for guidance.

“The experience has been really great,” he says. “Response times have been terrific, always within 24 hours and many times more quickly than that. The team coached me through the process and suggested additional options for how it could work. I really appreciated their willingness to help us through that.”

Why They Recommend WaiverSign

Dave describes WaiverSign as a reliable, modern, and guest-friendly solution.

“I would highly recommend WaiverSign to folks that are looking for a streamlined, modern, fast, efficient partner,” he says. “It gives guests easy ways to complete waivers digitally, allows your team to validate them, and provides a user-friendly database to access waivers whenever you need them.”

Watch how Thanksgiving Point uses WaiverSign to make guest check-in faster, smoother, and paperless.

A Better Way to Sign Photo Release Forms

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 06:56:29 GMT

Photo Release Forms: What They Are, Which One You Need, and How to Put Them to Use

What Is A Photo Release Form?

At its core, a photo release form lets the person signing the document give another person or company the right to use a given photo (or photos) in some way. In other words, it transfers control of how a photo is used.

Here’s a common example. Say a photographer takes a picture of a model and wants to use the photo in their portfolio to demonstrate their camera skills. That’s a commercial purpose, so the photographer needs permission from the subject of the photo (i.e. the model).

The photographer has the model sign a photography photo release form, which effectively transfers “ownership” of the photo from the person who’s in the photo to the person who took the photo. From there, as long as the language in the release form says so, the photographer can use the photo how they like.

Now, depending on the wording in the photo release form, it may transfer all rights regarding the photo, or it may only permit the photo to be used in specific ways.

Here are a few of the kinds of rights photo release forms can cover:

Using the photo for commercial purposes (like in an advertisement)
Using it for personal profit (like adding it to a photographer’s portfolio)
Printing the photo
Sharing the photo with someone else for them to use
Displaying the photo publicly, like on a website or social media

There are many rights that can be granted with a release form. The key is creating one with language that fits the parties involved and the specific situation.

This depends on who’s transferring rights, but there’s sometimes a series of releases as the photo changes hands.

When a photo is initially taken, a photographer will usually have the model (or models) sign a photo release form so that it can be used for the photographer’s profit. Then, the photographer might sign one when they sell it to a company for use in ads. And if that company is, say, a movie studio, even they may sign one giving rights to movie theaters to print posters and promotional material.

The important thing to remember is that the photo release form performs due diligence and protects each party’s ability to use the photo without legal conflict.

Who Signs The Photo Release Form?

When Do I Need A Photo Release Form?

The number one reason for photo release forms is when the photo will be used for commercial purposes, and the photo contains the image or likeness of something you don’t own.

First and foremost, a photographer has a stake in every photo they take, since they are the artist that created the image. If the photo is of natural scenery, wild animals, or other things that don’t have a traditional “owner,” the photographer is the only one with rights to the image, and they can do what they want with it.

Things get more complicated when something in the photo is clearly recognizable. When a person, a pet, a home, a car, a building, or something else is in the photo that can be identified, they may also have rights to how the photo is used.

Who Has Rights to a Photo?

What Are “Commercial Purposes?”

The term “commercial purposes” is all about generating revenue. When someone stands to profit in some way by the use of the photo, even indirectly, this is a commercial purpose.

So, whether it’s a photographer selling the photo, or a company using the photo in an ad, it counts.

In other words, photos taken for private use are fair game. Once you try to use them to generate revenue, you’ll need a release form (unless you already hold sole rights).

The exception is the press:

You can sell a photo to a newspaper or other news outlet under “freedom of the press.”
But the photo must depict real events and be newsworthy.

Everyone has a likeness, and they have the right to control whether people profit from it. Laws that enforce this protect privacy, which is why you’ll need photo release forms when working with people who aren’t you.

These laws also protect against defamation. A photographer can’t just take your picture and sell it to the press saying you’re a terrible person without your consent.

Exceptions:

When the likeness isn’t recognizable (blurred, obscured, poor lighting).
When people are photographed in public areas. These photos can be sold to the press, but other commercial purposes are off-limits.

Minors are always treated differently. Anytime a photo of a child will be displayed publicly, whether for school events, sports teams, or marketing, a parent or legal guardian must give consent. Learn more about minor photo release forms here.

What About Privacy?

If you want your release form to stand up in court in the event of a dispute, it’s critical that you use the right one. These forms vary based on both the rights being transferred and the subject of the photo.

What Type Of Photo Release Form Do I Need?

Photo Release Form – A general contract for image use.
Print Release Form – Grants the right to make physical prints of a photo.
Image Copyright Release Form – Transfers full ownership of a photo to another party (often corporations).

Releasing Different Rights

Model Release Forms – For any identifiable individual.
Minor Release Forms – Required for all minors, even if the use isn’t commercial.
Property Release Forms – For identifiable property such as homes, cars, or artwork.
Building Release Forms – For specific structures and landmarks, some of which restrict commercial use entirely.

Diff erent Forms for Different Subjects

Paper forms can work, but they come with significant downsides:

Printing and storage costs
Hard-to-read handwriting
Lost or misfiled forms
Limited access to data
Difficulties sharing copies with all parties

For anyone handling dozens (or hundreds) of releases, paper quickly becomes unmanageable.

The Downsides To Paper Release Forms

All of these problems can be solved with digital forms. WaiverSign’s photo release form builder makes it simple to:

Customize forms to your needs (photo waiver release form, image waiver, social media release, and more).
Collect signatures anywhere, anytime, on any device.
Store all signed forms securely in the cloud.
Instantly access customer information and trends.
Send a simple link for quick signing before events or sessions.

Digital photo release signs make life easier for photographers, schools, camps, gyms, and businesses.

The Digital Solution

With WaiverSign, you can pick the plan that best fits your needs. Every plan comes with unlimited storage, secure signatures, and full access to features. See WaiverSign pricing here and sign up for a 7-day free trial today.

Pricing & Free Trial

FAQs About Photo Release Forms

Why Dance Studios Need a Waiver

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 19:30:48 GMT

How Dance Studios Can Protect Students and Streamline Check-In with Waivers

Running a dance studio is about more than teaching choreography or perfecting technique. It’s about creating a safe, welcoming space where dancers of all ages can move, express themselves, and grow. But with every plié, pirouette, or hip-hop jump, there are risks for both your students and your business.

That’s where waivers come in.

A good waiver doesn’t just protect your studio legally. It sets clear expectations, builds trust with families, and makes your operations smoother. Here’s why every dance studio should make waivers a regular part of enrollment.

The following information is meant for general education and should not be considered legal advice. Since every dance studio has its own unique circumstances, we recommend consulting an attorney when creating or reviewing your waiver.

4. Collect Helpful Student Information

Digital waivers can do more than capture a signature. They also let you gather important student information in one safe place, such as:

Emergency contacts
Medical considerations like allergies or past injuries
Consent for photos or video recording
Acknowledgement of studio rules

Having this information organized and easy to find keeps students safer and helps your team respond quickly if something comes up. With WaiverSign, you can pull up this data in seconds instead of digging through paper files.

1. Protect Your Business From Liability

Accidents happen, even in the most careful environment. Slips, falls, twisted ankles, or injuries during performances are part of the reality of dance. Without a waiver in place, your studio could be exposed to costly legal claims.

A waiver creates a record that students and parents understand the risks involved in dance and agree to participate responsibly. It won’t remove risk completely, but it adds an important layer of protection for your business.

Want to see what this looks like? Check out this example dance studio waiver .

2. Set Clear Expectations With Students and Parents

Waivers aren’t only legal documents. They’re also great communication tools. A clear waiver outlines:

The physical risks of dancing
Safety rules students should follow
Studio policies around injuries, behavior, or refunds

When expectations are written down, there’s less room for confusion later. Parents, especially, appreciate this transparency. It shows you’re organized and professional, which builds confidence in your studio.

3. Support Insurance and Compliance Requirements

Many insurance providers ask for waivers as part of their coverage. Having a signed waiver on file shows that you’re taking reasonable steps to protect both your students and your studio.

This can help with compliance, improve your standing with insurers, and give you peace of mind knowing you’re covered.

Make Waivers Part of Your Studio’s Growth

Dance is joyful, empowering, and transformative. For your studio to thrive, you need systems that protect your business and support your students. A waiver is one of the simplest tools to make that happen.

With WaiverSign, you can create branded, mobile-friendly waivers in minutes. Students and parents can sign from their phones, tablets, or computers. No paperwork. No clutter. Just peace of mind.

Try WaiverSign risk-free. Start your free trial today .

FAQs Dance Studio Waivers

5. Save Time With Digital Waivers

Paper forms are inconvenient for busy parents and a hassle for staff. They’re easy to lose and take up storage space.

Digital waivers solve these problems. Parents can review and sign from any device before their child even steps foot in the studio. For staff, that means no more lines at the desk, no messy stacks of paper, and instant access to signed forms when needed.

Check out our dedicated dance studio waiver solution to see how simple it can be.

6. Show Professionalism and Build Trust

When new students walk into your studio, they’re deciding if they can trust you with their time, money, and often their children’s safety. A professional, mobile-friendly waiver shows that you take that responsibility seriously.

It proves your studio is organized, reliable, and committed to protecting students. That level of professionalism can help you stand out from competitors who still use outdated paper forms or skip waivers entirely.

Why You Need a Rock Climbing Waiver

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 19:21:42 GMT

Why You Need a Rock Climbing Waiver

Rock climbing is one of the most rewarding and adventurous activities out there. Whether you run a climbing gym, guide outdoor trips, or host youth programs, you know the thrill that comes when climbers push past their limits. You also know the risks.

Even with top-quality gear, certified instructors, and strict safety rules, climbing is physically demanding and unpredictable. That’s why having a waiver in place isn’t optional, it’s essential.

Here’s why every climbing operator should use a waiver for their participants.

Disclaimer: The information below is for general educational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. Every business is unique, so it’s always best to consult with an attorney when drafting or reviewing your waiver.

4. Collect Important Participant Information

A climbing waiver can also serve as an information form. Digital waivers let you gather and securely store:

Emergency contact details
Medical considerations, such as asthma or prior injuries
Consent for photos or video use
Agreement to follow gym or trip policies

This data can be critical in emergencies and helps instructors provide safer, more personalized experiences.

1. Protect Your Business From Legal Risk

Climbing comes with inherent risks: slips, falls, scrapes, or more serious injuries. Even experienced climbers can get hurt. Without a signed waiver, your business could face legal claims that threaten your financial stability.

A waiver acknowledges those risks up front. It ensures climbers understand the physical demands of the activity and accept responsibility for their participation. While it doesn’t remove risk entirely, it adds a vital layer of protection for your operation.

See what a waiver can look like by checking out this example rock climbing waiver .

2. Encourage Safety Awareness

A waiver isn’t just about signatures, it’s also an opportunity to emphasize safety. When participants review the risks and rules before climbing, they’re more likely to take those rules seriously once they’re on the wall or out on the rock.

By clearly stating safety policies in your waiver, you reinforce the importance of:

Proper use of equipment
Listening to instructor guidance
Following belay protocols
Respecting height and weight restrictions

This helps create a culture where safety is top of mind for both staff and climbers.

3. Build Trust With Participants

Climbers want to know you take their wellbeing seriously. A clear, professional waiver signals that your business is organized, transparent, and committed to protecting its community.

Parents of youth climbers, in particular, value this clarity. By outlining both risks and responsibilities, you show honesty and professionalism, which builds confidence in your program.

Make Waivers Part of Your Climbing Culture

Climbing pushes boundaries, builds community, and creates unforgettable memories. To keep that spirit alive, you need systems in place that protect both climbers and your business. A waiver is one of the simplest and most effective tools you can put in place.

With WaiverSign, you can set up branded, mobile-friendly waivers in minutes. Your participants can sign from anywhere, and you can access their information instantly. It’s safer, faster, and more reliable than paper.

Ready to make waivers part of your process? Explore WaiverSign’s rock climbing waiver form today.

FAQs Rock Climbing Waivers

5. Streamline Your Check-In Process

Nothing slows down a climbing session like a stack of paper forms at the front desk. Digital waivers solve that problem. Participants can sign ahead of time from their phone or computer, so check-in is quick and smooth.

For your staff, that means less paperwork, no filing cabinets, and instant access to records when needed. Digital platforms like WaiverSign also allow you to brand your waiver to match your gym or guiding business.

Take a look at WaiverSign’s rock climbing waiver form to see how easy it can be.

6. Support Insurance and Industry Standards

Most insurance providers for climbing gyms and guiding companies require waivers as part of their coverage. Having a signed waiver on file shows that you’ve taken reasonable steps to protect your business and your clients.

It also demonstrates that you’re following best practices widely recognized in the climbing industry.

How Little Lion Entertainment Transformed Guest Safety, Efficiency, and Marketing with WaiverSign

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 19:58:07 GMT

How Little Lion Entertainment Transformed Guest Safety, Efficiency, and Marketing with WaiverSign

About Little Lion Entertainment

Little Lion Entertainment is the UK’s premier immersive attractions company, known for creating unforgettable, interactive experiences that put guests at the center of the action. Since launching The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience in 2016, they’ve expanded across the UK, launched a Middle East franchise, and introduced groundbreaking attractions like Chaos Karts , a live-action augmented reality racing experience, and the upcoming PAC-MAN LIVE EXPERIENCE in collaboration with Bandai Namco Entertainment.

With over 230 team members and millions of guests welcomed, their experiences range from physical and skill-based challenges to fully interactive, video game-inspired adventures. Forty percent of their business comes from large corporate groups, making smooth operations, safety, and guest engagement critical to their success.

The Challenge

For most of its history, Little Lion Entertainment relied on paper waivers .

“We have boxes and boxes and boxes of waivers,” recalls Joe Ingram, Operations Director. “If we ever needed to locate one, it was a real challenge.”

Paper wasn’t their only issue. Over time, the company experimented with a mix of waiver systems across locations — some sites still using paper, others on outdated online tools.

“If I went to the Crystal Maze in London, our team couldn’t always tell you who within a group had signed a waiver because they didn’t have that visibility,” Joe explained.

This created operational headaches and slowed down the guest experience. And because they only collected the lead booker’s details, their marketing reach was limited.

“We could speak to the person booking a corporate event of 60 to 100 people, but we couldn’t reach any of the others,” says Joe. “That meant we were missing opportunities to connect with thousands of guests every month.”

Beyond the marketing challenge, the administrative workload was staggering. Staff were spending hundreds of hours every month printing, filing, scanning, and searching for waivers.

“When we were at our most analog, we were talking about hundreds of hours in a month just managing the waiver process.”

The Solution

When Little Lion Entertainment began searching for a better digital waiver system , they knew exactly what was needed: scalability across multiple attractions, customizable branding, easy access to guest data, and clear user permissions for site-specific teams.

“It was actually a bit of a Google search,” Joe explained. “We tried out a bunch of different systems, but WaiverSign was the one that ticked all the boxes.”

The setup was quick and straightforward.

“We sent our existing waivers to the team, they built them out, and we were ready to go. We launched first at Chaos Karts in Manchester, and it went so smoothly that we quickly rolled it out across our Crystal Maze sites in London and Manchester.”

From day one, WaiverSign began solving their operational and marketing challenges.

“Now we can proactively reach out to every member of a booking, not just the lead booker. That’s been a huge win for our CRM campaigns.”

The Results

1. Significant Time Savings
Switching to WaiverSign has freed up hundreds of staff hours every month.

“We’ve gone from scanning and filing paper to having everything accessible instantly,” Joe says. “It’s hundreds of hours saved each month.”

2. Faster Incident Response
When first aid or insurance needs arise, staff can locate waivers in seconds.

“I can literally log in within two seconds, look at waivers across any of our sites, and pull that information immediately. Before, it was like finding a needle in a haystack.”

3. Expanded Marketing Reach
Capturing every participant’s details has opened up new revenue and engagement opportunities.

“We’re now able to speak to every guest that visited, rather than just a small percentage.”

4. Seamless Multi-Site Management
User permissions and location toggling make managing multiple attractions simple.

“Being able to toggle between sites and set user permissions was a game changer for us.”

Why They Recommend WaiverSign

Joe’s recommendation is simple:

“If you want to know everything about your guests, communicate with them, and maintain safety while keeping it fun, WaiverSign is a must. For the first 18 months I worked here, every week there was another headache with waivers. Now, 18 months later, we don’t even think about it — which is ideal.”

And the reliability has been equally important.

“We haven’t had to reach out to support much, which is the best sign for me. Tens of thousands of waivers have been signed without downtime or access issues. That’s a testament to the product.”

As Little Lion Entertainment continues to grow, WaiverSign will grow with them.

“We were always concerned about being able to easily access multiple sites within one system. WaiverSign gave us that. It’s been a game changer in how we operate and how we’ll continue to expand.”

Why Gym Waivers Should Include Liability for Gym Equipment

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 16:00:25 GMT

Why Gym Waivers Should Include Liability for Gym Equipment

When someone walks into a gym, their focus is on fitness goals, not potential risks. But accidents can and do happen, especially when equipment is involved. From weight machines and treadmills to free weights and resistance bands, even the safest environments carry inherent risks.

That is why every gym liability waiver should explicitly include equipment use. Addressing this up front protects your business, sets clear expectations, and helps create a safer environment for members.

Digital Waivers Make It Easy

Paper waivers can be a hassle to store and manage. Digital waivers simplify the process, making it easy for members to sign online before their first workout. This saves staff time at check-in and ensures all signed waivers are stored securely in one place.

Digital solutions also make it easier to update your waiver if equipment policies change. Instead of reprinting stacks of forms, you can quickly update and share the new version with every member.

Common Equipment-Related Risks

Even in a well-run facility, gym equipment presents unique challenges. Injuries may occur from:

Improper or unsupervised use of machines
Equipment malfunction or wear and tear
Overloading weights beyond safe capacity
Using resistance tools incorrectly
Collisions or accidents in crowded workout areas

By making equipment use part of your gym waiver form , you ensure members acknowledge these risks before stepping onto the floor.

Protecting Your Business and Your Members

A waiver is not just legal paperwork. It is a communication tool. When members sign an equipment liability form , they are agreeing to:

Take responsibility for using equipment correctly
Report any faulty or unsafe machines
Follow staff instructions and posted safety guidelines

This creates a shared understanding between your gym and your members. It shows you are committed to safety while reminding clients of their own role in preventing injuries.

What to Include in Your Waiver

When drafting or updating your waiver, make sure the language around equipment is clear and specific. For example, an equipment release of liability form may outline that:

Members understand the risks associated with gym equipment
The gym is not responsible for injuries due to misuse of equipment
Members are responsible for determining their own fitness limits

For a full breakdown, check out our guide on what should be included in a gym waiver .

Keeping Fitness Safe and Professional

At the end of the day, including equipment liability in your waiver is not just about legal protection. It is about showing members you care about their safety while protecting your gym’s future. A strong waiver, whether a standalone equipment release of liability form or part of a broader gym waiver, helps create a safe, trustworthy environment where members can focus on what matters most: their fitness.

FAQs About Gym Equipment Waivers

The Role of Waivers in Group Fitness & Bootcamps

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 15:55:19 GMT

The Role of Waivers in Group Fitness & Bootcamps

Group fitness and bootcamp workouts have exploded in popularity. They’re fun, motivating, and often push people to perform at their best. But with that energy and intensity comes risk. Whether you’re running outdoor bootcamps, cycling classes, or high-intensity group training, the potential for injuries and misunderstandings is always there.

That’s why fitness liability waivers play such a critical role in protecting both participants and fitness professionals. A well-structured waiver sets expectations, reduces legal risk, and fosters trust between trainer and client.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney to ensure your waiver is valid and enforceable in your area.

The Shift to Digital Waivers

Paper forms are easy to lose, hard to track, and inconvenient for both staff and clients. Digital waivers simplify the process by allowing participants to sign from their phone before arriving. This reduces check-in times, eliminates storage issues, and ensures all signed documents are secure and easy to retrieve.

For businesses running multiple sessions a day, especially high-turnover classes like spin or yoga, digital waivers aren’t just convenient, they’re a necessity.

Why Waivers Matter in Group Settings

Unlike one-on-one personal training, group classes introduce more variables. Different fitness levels, exercise modifications, and the fast pace of classes make it harder to monitor every participant closely. Even when instructors give clear safety cues, accidents can happen.

A fitness liability waiver ensures that participants acknowledge these risks before they start. It’s not about scaring clients away, it’s about transparency and professionalism. By signing, participants confirm they understand the nature of the activity and agree not to hold the trainer or facility responsible for ordinary risks.

For a deeper look at how waivers protect group fitness classes, take a look at our gym liability waiver guide .

Setting Expectations Builds Trust

Trust is everything in the fitness world. A waiver isn’t just legal paperwork, it’s a communication tool. It outlines what participants can expect and what’s expected of them.

For example, it may highlight:

The importance of disclosing medical conditions
The participant’s responsibility to listen to instructions
The risks of high-intensity or outdoor training environments

When used well, a waiver shows clients you’re organized, thoughtful, and committed to their safety. That confidence can actually make your classes more appealing.

Different Waivers for Different Needs

Not all fitness programs are the same. A group fitness class waiver may differ from a bootcamp waiver , depending on setting and activity level.

Bootcamp waiver : Often includes outdoor risks such as uneven terrain, weather conditions, and unpredictable environments.
Group fitness waiver : More common in gyms or studios, addressing equipment use, crowded spaces, and varied participant skill levels.

If you operate a facility that offers multiple types of programs, your waiver may need to cover several scenarios at once. Platforms like WaiverSign’s gym and fitness liability waivers make it easy to create customizable, branded digital waivers that fit all your offerings.

Protecting Your Classes and Clients

A fitness waiver is more than a legal safeguard. It’s a way to show professionalism, protect your business, and set the tone for a safe and positive workout environment. Whether you’re leading a high-energy bootcamp in the park or running structured studio classes, the right waiver will keep both you and your clients on the same page, so everyone can focus on the workout.

FAQs About Group Fitness Waivers

Why Every Personal Trainer Needs a Liability Waiver

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 12:40:30 GMT

Why Every Personal Trainer Needs a Liability Waiver

If you're a personal trainer, whether you're working in a gym, running your own studio, or meeting clients at the park, a solid liability waiver is one of the most important documents in your toolkit.

You might be focused on building workouts and transforming lives (and rightly so), but overlooking a waiver could leave you legally vulnerable if a client gets hurt. And let’s be honest, accidents happen.

So let’s break down why a personal training waiver is essential, what it should include, and how to make it simple for both you and your clients.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney to ensure your waiver is valid and enforceable in your area.

Go Beyond Paperwork: Make It Digital

If you're still handing clients paper forms to sign before a session, it’s time for an upgrade. Digital waivers save time, reduce awkwardness, and keep your workflow clean. Tools like WaiverSign’s personal trainer forms let your clients sign from any device, before they even show up.

No clipboards. No lost forms. Just simple, secure recordkeeping.

The Reality of Risk in Personal Training

You know better than anyone. No two clients are the same. One person might thrive on high-intensity workouts, while another pulls a muscle doing warmups. No matter how cautious or experienced you are, there’s always a risk of:

Injury from improper form or overexertion
Accidents involving equipment
Medical issues triggered by exercise
Claims of negligence

A personal training liability waiver helps manage that risk by setting clear expectations and protecting your business.

What Does a Personal Training Waiver Actually Do?

Think of a training release form as a handshake and a seatbelt. It outlines the risks involved, confirms that your client understands those risks, and provides a legal layer of protection in case something goes wrong.

It typically includes:

An assumption of risk statement (your client understands physical activity can lead to injury)
A release of liability clause (your client agrees not to hold you responsible)
A health acknowledgment (your client confirms they’re medically able to participate)
A signature and date to make it official

Want to see how this looks in real life? Check out this sample personal training waiver .

Why Waivers Build Trust, Not Fear

Some trainers worry a waiver will make their clients nervous. But when done right, it actually builds confidence.

A waiver shows that:

You take your business seriously
You care about safety and transparency
You’re organized and professional

It’s the same reason you have insurance and policies. It’s not about expecting the worst. It’s about being prepared for it.

Protect Yourself and Your Clients

Your job is to help people feel stronger, healthier, and more confident. A waiver supports that by giving you the peace of mind to focus on what you do best: training.

Whether you're just starting out or scaling your business, don’t skip the basics. A clear, easy-to-sign waiver is a must-have for any serious trainer.

Want to get started? Try WaiverSign free and we’ll help you create a digital waiver tailored to your personal training business.

When to Use a Personal Training Waiver

Short answer? Every time.

Use a waiver for:

One-on-one sessions
Small group training
Outdoor bootcamps
First-time free trials
Virtual training sessions (yes, even Zoom workouts)

You don’t need to overthink it. Just make signing the waiver part of your onboarding or scheduling process. Once it’s done, it’s done.

What Should Be Included in a Gym Waiver?

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 12:40:27 GMT

What Should Be Included in a Gym Waiver?

Whether you're opening your first studio or running a full-scale fitness facility, having a gym waiver isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s essential. It protects your business, sets clear expectations, and helps you avoid messy legal situations if something goes wrong.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Be sure to consult with a qualified attorney to ensure your waiver complies with local laws and regulations.

But what exactly should you put in a gym liability waiver ?

Here’s a breakdown of what to include (and why it matters), plus a few tips to make sure your waiver isn’t just legally sound but also easy for members to understand and sign.

3. Health and Fitness Acknowledgment

Include a statement where members confirm that:

They are physically fit to participate in gym activities
They’re not under the influence of drugs or alcohol
They’ve disclosed any relevant medical conditions

Some gyms also encourage members to consult a doctor before starting a new fitness program. Including that language in your waiver shows that you're taking reasonable precautions.

First: What Is a Gym Liability Waiver?

A gym liability waiver is a legal document that members sign to acknowledge the risks involved in physical activity and release your business from certain types of liability. It’s designed to protect your gym, your trainers, and your team from lawsuits related to injuries or accidents during workouts, training sessions, or use of equipment.

�� Want a ready-made template? Check out this gym and fitness waiver that you can customize in minutes.

1. A Clear Assumption of Risk Statement

This is the heart of any gym waiver. It should clearly explain that working out carries some level of risk, including injury or even serious health complications. Your members need to understand that they are voluntarily participating and accepting those risks.

Make it specific. Mention things like:

Weightlifting injuries
Slips and falls
Overexertion
Equipment malfunction
Personal training sessions

This isn't about scaring people. It’s about transparency.

2. A Release of Liability Clause

This section says that the member agrees not to hold your gym legally responsible if they get hurt. It typically includes:

Waiving the right to sue for injuries
Releasing the gym, owners, employees, and contractors
Covering all claims related to the use of facilities or participation in services

You might see this referred to as a “release and waiver of liability,” and it's arguably the most important paragraph in your entire form.

5. Photo and Video Release (Optional)

Planning to snap some gym photos for social or promo use? Consider adding a section where members give permission for their image to be used. This isn’t required, but it avoids awkward misunderstandings down the road.

Want to see how this looks in practice? Here’s a solid gym liability waiver example you can review.

4. Emergency Contact and Medical Consent

This part is optional but smart. Ask for an emergency contact and include a line that authorizes your staff to call for medical help if something serious happens.

It shows you’re looking out for your members and it can protect your staff in emergency response situations.

6. Digital Signature and Date Fields

Make sure your waiver ends with a space for members to sign and date the form. If you’re using a digital waiver platform like WaiverSign, the process is mobile-friendly and secure. You can even bundle it with your membership agreement or onboarding process.

No more paperwork headaches. Just clean, trackable records.

Include Your Trainers

If your gym offers personal training sessions, it’s a good idea to have a separate personal trainer waiver in place. This ensures your trainers, whether in-house or contractors, are covered and helps them feel supported by your business.

Why It Matters

Your gym waiver isn’t just a form. It’s the foundation of a safer, more professional experience for you and your members. When it’s clear, specific, and easy to sign, it builds trust, protects your business, and keeps the focus where it belongs - on fitness.

Want help putting together a digital waiver that checks all the boxes? We’ve got you. Start a free trial with WaiverSign and we’ll even build your first waiver for you.

The Ultimate Guide to Summer & Sports Camp Liability Waivers

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 15:52:47 GMT

The Ultimate Guide to Summer & Sports Camp Liability Waivers

Summer camps and sports programs are all about fun, growth, and new experiences. But if you’re the one running the show, you know it’s also about keeping things safe, organized, and legally sound. That’s where having a solid summer camp liability waiver comes in. Whether you're leading a soccer camp for teens or hosting a family weekend at your campground, a waiver isn’t just a legal form. It's a foundational part of your business.

Let’s break down what a camp waiver really does, what should be in it, and how to make it work better for you and your campers.

Don’t Miss the Marketing Opportunity

Here’s something a lot of camps overlook. The info you collect on your waiver can actually help you grow your program.

Every signed summer camp liability waiver gives you valuable data, names, emails, phone numbers, that you can use (with permission) to send post-camp thank yous, request reviews, share next year’s registration dates, or promote new sessions.

Want to dig into the details of crafting a strong sports camp liability waiver ? Check out our sports waiver template and tips designed specifically for active programs like yours.

Why Waivers Matter More Than Ever

Camps today come with a wide range of activities - kayaking, rock climbing, zip-lining, contact sports, the list goes on. Each of those carries some level of risk. A sports camp liability waiver protects your organization by ensuring participants (and their parents or guardians) understand and accept those risks before they ever arrive on site.

But waivers aren’t just about protection. A well-designed summer camp waiver also sets the tone. It shows that you're professional, organized, and care about safety. And if it's easy to sign, branded to your camp, and mobile-friendly? Even better. It makes a great first impression.

What to Include in Your Camp Waiver

Here’s what every good sports camp liability waiver or summer program waiver should include:

Assumption of risk : Clearly outline the types of activities campers will be involved in and the inherent risks associated with them.
Release of liability : State that the participant (or their legal guardian) agrees not to hold your organization liable for accidents or injuries.
Medical consent : In case of emergency, can you seek medical treatment on their behalf? This clause helps you act fast when it matters most.
Behavior policies : Especially for youth programs, setting behavioral expectations is key.
Photo and video release : Want to share camp photos on social media or your website? Make sure you have permission.

And don’t forget: your campground waiver or camp liability form should be easy to read, easy to sign, and easy to store. No one wants to manage stacks of paper in the middle of August heat.

Go Digital: It’s a Game-Changer

If you’re still printing waivers and chasing down signatures with clipboards, there’s a better way. With digital waiver tools like WaiverSign , you can send your waivers ahead of time, collect signatures from any device, and store everything securely in the cloud.

Even better, you can bundle multiple documents (like a medical release and a camp waiver ) into one seamless signing flow. Parents only have to fill out basic info once, and you get everything you need in one go. Talk about a win-win.

Explore how other education programs and youth organizations are using WaiverSign for camps and schools .

Make Your Waiver Work Smarter, Not Harder

At the end of the day, your waiver is more than a form. It's your first line of protection, your first impression with new families, and a chance to stay connected long after the last marshmallow is toasted.

Make it easy. Make it digital. Make it work for you.

Ready to simplify your waivers this summer? Try WaiverSign free and get your first camp document built for you with no tech headaches required.

How to Digitize Your Tattoo & Piercing Consent Forms (and Why You Should)

nikki@resmarkweb.com (Nikki DeSantis) — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 07:40:25 GMT

How to Digitize Your Tattoo & Piercing Consent Forms (and Why You Should)

Running a tattoo or piercing studio comes with a lot more than ink, needles, and creativity. Between managing appointments, staying compliant with local laws, and keeping clients happy, paperwork can pile up fast. And while that old clipboard and pen routine might feel familiar, it’s far from efficient.

If you’re still using paper consent forms for tattoos and piercings, it might be time to make the switch. Digitizing your consent process isn’t just about convenience, it can help protect your business, improve the client experience, and even support your marketing efforts. Let’s break it down.

Bonus: Keep Growing Your Business

Here’s something most studios don’t realize. Every waiver you collect is a chance to grow your client base. When your digital consent form asks for name, email, birthday, or phone number, you’re building a list of people who already trust you. That’s pure gold for email newsletters, promotions, or booking reminders.

Platforms like WaiverSign integrate with popular CRMs, email tools, and automation systems so you can stay in touch with clients long after their appointment ends.

What Does It Mean to Digitize Consent Forms?

Digitizing your tattoo and piercing consent forms means turning those paper documents into secure, online forms that clients can complete from their phone, tablet, or computer. These forms collect all the same information — client details, signatures, parental permissions — just without the hassle of printing, scanning, or filing.

Using an online waiver platform like this one , studios can build sleek, branded forms, send them to clients ahead of appointments, and store everything digitally for easy access later on.

Why Digital Consent Forms Are a Game-Changer

Still on the fence? Here’s why going digital is worth the switch:

1. Less Time, Less Stress

Paperwork slows everything down, especially when clients show up late and still need to fill out forms. With digital waivers, clients can complete their forms in advance, so all you need to do is double-check and get to work. That means fewer delays, happier customers, and more time for actual appointments.

2. Fewer Mistakes, Fewer Headaches

Illegible handwriting, missing initials, and incomplete info are common problems with paper forms. A good digital system makes required fields obvious, ensures every box is checked, and stores everything safely in one place. That’s peace of mind for you, and protection if you ever need to reference a form later.

3. Meet Legal Requirements Without the Guesswork

When it comes to tattoos and piercings, the law isn’t always simple. Whether it’s getting a tattoo minor consent form signed or verifying someone’s age, you’ve got to stay compliant. Many states have strict rules around the age of consent for tattoos , and the requirements for parental permission for tattoos vary depending on location.

A digital system helps you build forms that follow the rules. That’s a major win when you’re trying to stay out of legal hot water.

Need a quick head start? Check out these ready-made templates on tattoo and piercing waivers .

4. A Better Experience for Everyone

Filling out a form on your phone is just… easier. No clipboards. No pens that don’t work. No awkward wait at the front desk. Clients appreciate the convenience, and your studio looks more polished and professional from the moment they book.

Plus, with tools like electronic signature and mobile optimization, it only takes a few taps to get everything squared away.

5. Parental Consent? Even Easier.

If you work with minors, you already know how important it is to collect proper documentation, whether it’s for a minor consent form for tattoo services or an ear piercing consent form . Digital waivers can be sent directly to a parent or guardian via email or text, so there’s no need for them to be physically present at the time of signing.

That flexibility matters, especially for busy families or studios that operate by appointment only.

How to Make the Switch in 3 Simple Steps

Thinking it’s time to ditch the paper? Here’s what switching to digital could look like:

Step 1: Upload or Build Your Form

Start with your existing waiver or tattoo permission form. Most platforms (like WaiverSign ) let you paste your text directly into a template or work with their team to build it for you.

Step 2: Customize and Brand It

Add your studio’s logo, adjust the colors to match your vibe, and choose what info to collect (name, contact, age, emergency contact, etc.). Want to include initials or photo ID uploads? No problem.

Step 3: Share the Link

Once your form is ready, you can add the link to your website, booking system, confirmation emails, or even set it up at a kiosk in your shop. Clients sign before they arrive, and you’re ready to roll.

Pro tip: Some tools even let you send follow-up emails after the waiver is signed, so you can request reviews or offer a discount on their next visit. It’s not just paperwork, it’s marketing.

Go Digital, Stay Safe, Look Pro

Whether you’re running a busy shop or are just starting out, going digital with your tattoo and piercing waivers is one of the simplest upgrades you can make. It keeps you organized, keeps you compliant, and keeps your clients happy.

In a world where everything is online, your consent forms should be too.

How WaiverSign Helps

Want help turning your consent forms into smart, branded documents that do more than just check a box? WaiverSign can help with fast setup, real support, and no tech headaches.

Why Latter-day Saint Leaders Should Switch to Digital Permission Slips

nikki@resmarkweb.com (Nikki DeSantis) — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 07:46:23 GMT

Why Latter-day Saint Leaders Should Switch to Digital Permission Slips

If you’ve ever organized a youth activity in your Latter-day Saint ward or stake, you know collecting paper permission slips can be a headache. Between forms getting lost, incomplete signatures, and last-minute scrambles before a youth camp, it can feel overwhelming.

More wards and stakes are moving to digital LDS permission slips because they simplify activities, protect sensitive information, and save time for leaders and parents.

How Going Digital Supports Stewardship

Switching to digital LDS permission slips also helps your ward or stake support environmental stewardship by reducing paper waste and printing resources. Learn how going digital makes a positive environmental impact here: Environmental benefits of switching to digital waivers .

Why LDS Permission Slips Are Important

An LDS permission slip isn’t just paperwork. It protects leaders, keeps parents informed, and ensures your ward or stake has emergency contacts and health details on file with an LDS medical release form.

Whether it’s for youth conference, young men’s or young women's camp, an overnight campout, or trek; having a permission slip signed before an activity keeps your ward or stake compliant and gives peace of mind to leaders and parents.

But chasing paper forms takes time and creates unnecessary stress.

The Problems with Paper Permission Slips

Forms get lost or damaged
Missing signatures and incomplete information
Constant counting of forms to make sure you have them all before heading out.
Sensitive information is not secure

This is why many wards and stakes are choosing digital LDS youth permission slips to make activities safer and more organized.

The Benefits of Digital LDS Permission Slips

Fast Delivery and Collection : Parents receive permission slips by email or text, and sign instantly.
Accurate Details: Parents can easily update medical and emergency information through a medical release form online.
Instant Access for Leaders: Leaders can pull up a dashboard and individual forms on a phone, ensuring readiness during activities.
Paperless Organization: No paper stacks to store or lose, with secure digital storage for easy access.
Better Compliance: You confirm all youth have a signed permission slip before leaving for activities.

Real-World Scenario: Preparing for Youth Camp

Picture your next youth camp. Instead of reminding parents constantly to hand in their child’s permission slip, you can send a secure link by text. Parents can complete the permission slip and medical release form in minutes from their phones or computer.

Before the activity, leaders can check a simple dashboard confirming every youth has a signed form and updated health details. No last-minute stress, no lost forms, and leaders have immediate access to medical and emergency contacts.

Is It Allowed?

Many leaders wonder if digital LDS church youth permission slips are compliant with Church guidelines. The Church Handbook encourages gathering permission and medical release information before activities, and secure digital forms fulfill these requirements for most wards and stakes. Always check with stake leaders for local direction, but many Latter-day Saint wards and stakes are using digital permission slips with confidence.

Tips for Transitioning to Digital

Let parents know you’re moving to digital LDS permission slips for safety and organization.
Test your system with a small activity first to get comfortable.
Use a secure platform that protects personal data and allows you to archive or delete forms.
Train leaders on how to view permission slips on their devices before activities.

How WaiverSign Helps

WaiverSign, based in Salt Lake City, helps Latter-day Saint wards and stakes simplify collecting LDS permission slips and LDS medical release forms with a paperless system:

Send LDS church permission slips by email or text
Collect secure digital signatures
Store and access forms easily from any device
Reduce paper clutter and improve compliance
Give leaders and parents peace of mind before activities

If you want to reduce stress and simplify youth activities in your ward or stake, see how going paperless with WaiverSign can help you protect your youth and save you time. Request a demo to see how digital LDS permission slips can work for your ward or stake .

Top 6 Waiver Software Tools in 2025: Which One Is Right for Your Business?

nikki@resmarkweb.com (Nikki DeSantis) — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 08:01:59 GMT

Top 6 Waiver Software Tools in 2025: Which One Is Right for Your Business?

1. WaiverSign

Visit WaiverSign →

"It’s so easy to use, I honestly don’t think about it anymore. Our clients sign from their phones, on our website, or via QR code-and it just works."

WaiverSign is the most comprehensive and top-rated electronic waiver software for good reason. Built specifically for experience-based businesses, WaiverSign makes the process of collecting, storing, and managing online waivers incredibly simple. Whether you're a tour operator, a fitness studio, or a nonprofit organizing volunteer events, WaiverSign helps you get signatures before guests arrive - saving time, reducing chaos, and looking ultra-professional.

It also helps eliminate paperwork entirely. With a simple link or QR code, your guests can sign on any device. The signed waivers are securely stored in the cloud, searchable at any time, and exportable in PDF format. No more digging through file cabinets or manually tracking forms.

Key Features:

Seamless mobile and desktop signing
QR code check-ins
Group/event signing links
Multi-language support
Collect custom data like wetsuit sizes, allergies, or preferences
Seamless integration with Resmark Booking Software
API access for booking system integration
See all WaiverSign features

Why It’s #1:

Unmatched customer support
Affordable pricing with seasonal plans
Loved by users with thousands of glowing testimonials

Want a deeper dive? Check out this side-by-side comparison: Smartwaiver vs WaiverSign

�� Watch a real WaiverSign user explain how it transformed their guest experience in Erik’s video: “Why Choose WaiverSign?!”

5. CleverWaiver

Visit CleverWaiver →

If you need a no-frills digital waiver signing tool that works reliably across devices, CleverWaiver might be a fit. It focuses on speed, global accessibility, and flexibility for small businesses.

The platform provides basic features like kiosk signing, offline mode, secure storage, and even allows image capture. While not as robust in integrations or automation, it’s a great entry point for businesses looking to digitize without breaking the bank.

Highlights:

Easy setup and fast deployment
Kiosk app for Android/iOS
Offline signing and auto-sync
Custom email follow-ups
Strong data encryption and GDPR compliance

CleverWaiver doesn’t try to be everything-and that’s a good thing if you want something straightforward without feature overload.

2. Smartwaiver

Visit Smartwaiver →

Smartwaiver is a well-known player in the waiver software space and offers a solid set of features for businesses needing customizable digital waivers.

The platform includes a waiver editor with visual branding options, allowing you to match waivers to your business identity. It supports SMS distribution, offline mode, and even captures photos of signees for added verification.

Highlights:

Waiver editor with branding controls
Auto photo capture
SMS links, kiosk mode, and offline signing
Integrates with major platforms like FareHarbor, Mindbody, and Xola
Searchable WaiverVault storage system

Smartwaiver stands out for its deep customization options and robust integration capabilities, making it a strong choice for businesses with complex operational needs.

3. WaiverForever

Visit WaiverForever →

WaiverForever brings some cutting-edge functionality to the table, including AI-powered template creation and a built-in CRM. It’s ideal for businesses that want extra data insight and advanced automation.

The built-in CRM allows you to manage customer relationships from inside the platform, and the drag-and-drop builder makes form creation straightforward. Plus, with integrations to more than 5,000 tools via Zapier, you can connect your waivers to nearly any workflow.

Highlights:

AI waiver generation
PDF mapping for existing forms
CRM built-in for customer tracking
Enterprise-grade encryption and compliance (SOC2, GDPR)
Works with 5000+ tools via Zapier

This platform is especially strong in beauty, fitness, and event industries-but the interface may be overwhelming if you just need something simple.

4. Wherewolf

Visit Wherewolf →

Wherewolf combines digital waiver signing with guest experience tools that help businesses collect signatures, manage guest data, and boost engagement.

The platform’s SMS-powered automation makes it easy to collect post-visit reviews and encourage repeat bookings, while its custom-branded waiver app ensures a professional first impression-no internet required.

A simple dashboard organizes all your guest data in one place, letting you filter by experience type, time, or group. And with built-in analytics, you can gain actionable insights into guest demographics and behavior to optimize your marketing efforts.

Highlights:

Branded digital waivers compatible across devices
Pre-arrival links sent via SMS
Automated SMS review requests
Integrations with booking tools like Rezdy and Peek Pro
Easy-to-use dashboard with guest filters and analytics

Wherewolf makes it easier to engage guests before, during, and after their visit, all while helping you save time, gather better data, and grow your business.

6. Waiver Electronic

Visit Waiver Electronic →

Waiver Electronic bundles waivers, booking, and CRM into one affordable tool. It shines in industries like fitness, salons, and escape rooms where fast digital intake is essential.

The tool supports signing via web, smartphone, or kiosk app and allows you to embed payment collection directly into the waiver form. It also integrates with Square, Mindbody, and other key platforms, making it a versatile option for smaller businesses that want more than just a signature tool.

Highlights:

Waiver + booking system + CRM
iOS and Android kiosk apps
Bluetooth printer integration
Mindbody and Square integrations
Free trial and low per-waiver cost

For companies on a budget that still want mobile access, payment collection, and automation-Waiver Electronic packs a ton of value.

Choosing the Right Tool for You

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to waiver signing software in 2025, and the right choice depends on your specific business needs. Whether it’s automation, design flexibility, CRM features, or deep integrations-you’ve got solid tools to pick from.

If you’re looking for ease of use, world-class support, and flexibility, WaiverSign is hands-down the best online waiver software for 2025. It’s trusted by thousands of businesses worldwide and continues to raise the bar for reliability, professionalism, and simplicity.

Integrating Electronic Waivers with Your CRM: Simplify Operations and Amplify Marketing

nikki@resmarkweb.com (Nikki DeSantis) — Thu, 22 May 2025 11:02:36 GMT

Integrating Electronic Waivers with Your CRM: Simplify Operations and Amplify Marketing

Implementing an electronic waiver system is more than just going paperless, it’s a chance to streamline your business and supercharge your marketing. We’re going to explore how integrating electronic waivers with your CRM can simplify operations, improve marketing, and even impress customers with a seamless experience.

We’ll dive into tools like WaiverSign and Zapier that feed waiver data into your CRM automatically, and share tips to turn signed waivers into marketing gold. Let’s break down why digital waiver software and CRM integration is a data-driven game-changer for business owners.

Turning Digital Waivers into Marketing Gold

Here’s how to use waiver data for marketing:

Capture Marketing Opt-Ins on Your Waiver Form

Include a checkbox like: ✅ I agree to receive marketing emails and special offers.

This builds your list with permission and compliance.

Build Your Email List Effortlessly

Waiver data can flow into your CRM or email system automatically. With tools like WaiverSign, it’s easy to convert every signature into a marketing powerhouse .

Segment and Personalize Campaigns

Use waiver details to create interest-based segments and send tailored follow-ups. A kayak tour guest might get future paddling offers; a zipline guest could hear about your next aerial adventure.

Automate Follow-Ups

Examples:

Welcome emails right after signing.
Re-engagement campaigns 30+ days later.
VIP perks for repeat waiver signers.
Seasonal offers based on past experiences.

Why Connect Electronic Waivers to Your CRM?

Electronic waivers (digital liability waivers signed on a phone, tablet, or computer) save you from dealing with messy paperwork, but their real power shines when connected to a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. Why? Because the information customers provide on waivers (names, emails, phone numbers, etc.) can flow straight into your CRM database without any manual data entry.

And if you connect to your CRM, you won’t even have to manually download and import the signed documents like you see in the clip below.

By integrating your waiver platform with a CRM, you ensure no customer data gets left in a filing cabinet or lost in a stack of papers.

Every customer must sign a waiver before using your service, meaning you can capture contact info from nearly 100% of your customers (with their consent).

Compared to a traditional email newsletter signup (where only a fraction of customers opt in), an electronic waiver system gives you a far bigger pool of customer data to work with.

When waivers feed into your CRM, that treasure trove of data is organized and ready to fuel your sales and marketing efforts.

How Electronic Waiver Integration Works (WaiverSign + Zapier)

You might be wondering how to actually connect a digital waiver system with your CRM. The good news: you don’t need to be a developer or IT wizard. Modern tools make integration simple. For example, WaiverSign offers built-in support for integrations via Zapier, a no-code automation platform.

With the WaiverSign Zapier integration , you can connect waiver data to thousands of applications. Want each new signed waiver to create a lead in Salesforce or HubSpot? Or add a contact in Mailchimp or Constant Contact? No problem, a few clicks in Zapier and your waiver info flows wherever you need it.

WaiverSign even allows exporting your data as a CSV or PDF at any time for full flexibility ( export waiver data feature ).

“The first rule of any technology used in a business is that automation applied to an efficient operation will magnify the efficiency.”
- Bill Gates

PS: If you’re a tour operator and use Resmark Systems , digital waivers like WaiverSign are already fully integrated.

Business Benefits of Automating Waiver-CRM Data Flow

Integrating your waivers with a CRM system delivers real business value:

Time Savings & Efficiency: No more double-entry. Automation lets your team focus on customers instead of paperwork.
Better Data Accuracy: Typed data is more accurate than handwritten forms.
Instant Follow-Ups: Automatically send thank-you emails or promo codes right after a waiver is signed.
Improved Marketing Segmentation: Use waiver data to group and target customers more effectively.

Enhanced Customer Experience: Fast, professional, and modern – guests appreciate seamless interactions.

Long-Term Success Through Data-Driven Marketing

By continually collecting and organizing waiver data, you create a cycle:

more data → better insights → smarter marketing → stronger loyalty.

Ready to put your waiver data to work? Start your WaiverSign free trial or explore why you need a CRM to truly unlock the full potential of integration.

FAQ: Electronic Waivers and CRM Integration

How a Digital Waiver System Streamlines the Guest Check-In Experience

nikki@resmarkweb.com (Nikki DeSantis) — Sat, 17 May 2025 06:14:04 GMT

How a Digital Waiver System Streamlines the Guest Check-In Experience

Creating a smooth, intuitive check-in process is more than a logistical task; it's a core part of the customer journey. Whether you run a gym, tour company, salon, or youth program, the way your guests are welcomed and processed can shape their entire experience with your brand. Often, that journey begins before guests even step inside your business.

Waivers are a legal necessity, but the process of managing them doesn’t have to feel like a hassle for you or your guests. A thoughtfully designed digital waiver system helps reduce friction, improve organization, and enhance the overall customer experience. Let’s discuss practical ways to improve check-in workflows using digital tools, with WaiverSign as one example of how businesses are making this shift effectively.

Understanding the Customer Journey: First Impressions Matter

Digital waivers do more than protect your business legally. They can help you build stronger relationships by collecting customer data during check-in. This allows you to:

Follow up with feedback surveys
Encourage online reviews
Send promotional offers or loyalty program invitations

For ideas on how to maximize this, see how to turn your waivers into a marketing powerhouse .

Make Check-In Work for Everyone

The guest journey starts with expectations. When customers sign up for a service or book an event, they begin evaluating your professionalism right away. A check-in process that involves printing forms, scanning IDs, or re-entering information on-site can feel outdated and frustrating.

Modern guest expectations call for efficiency, simplicity, and convenience. By digitizing and customizing the waiver and check-in process, businesses can eliminate delays, reinforce their branding, and ensure guests feel confident and cared for before the experience even begins.

Five Ways to Improve the Guest Check-In Process

Below are five proven strategies that businesses can adopt to create a more organized, guest-friendly check-in system.

1. Offer Contactless Pre-Check-In

Allowing guests to sign waivers ahead of time on any device eliminates wait times and reduces errors. This shift supports social distancing, saves paper, and improves the guest’s sense of preparedness.

2. Minimize Redundancy with Bundled Forms

If your business uses multiple documents (e.g., liability waivers, photo releases, health disclosures), consider bundling them into one unified process. Guests only need to input their information once, making the experience smoother and more professional.

3. Use On-Site Digital Kiosks

Not every guest will complete forms in advance. Providing a digital kiosk at check-in ensures no one is left behind. This is especially useful for walk-ins or groups. WaiverSign's digital kiosk mode offers one example of how this works in real-world settings.

4. Make It Easy for Groups

If your business hosts school trips, corporate teams, or family groups, it’s helpful to assign a group coordinator. With the right tools, you can manage participants efficiently and ensure every person is accounted for before the event starts.

5. Support Multiple Languages and Custom Branding

Guests feel more welcome when they can read and complete forms in their preferred language. Add to that a well-designed, branded interface, and your forms become an extension of your professional image.

Benefits Beyond Check-In: What Staff and Guests Gain

Improving your check-in workflow has ripple effects throughout your business. Staff spend less time sorting through paperwork and more time engaging with guests. Digitally stored waivers are easier to retrieve, track, and analyze. And integrations with booking systems reduce duplicate work.

Solutions like WaiverSign demonstrate how cloud-based systems can reduce administrative tasks while improving the quality of the guest experience. Explore WaiverSign's full feature set to learn more.

Using Waivers to Support Customer Engagement

Improving your check-in process benefits guests and staff alike. Whether you're upgrading to digital waivers, refining how you organize group signers, or simply improving the design of your documents, these changes can make a lasting impact.

Tools like WaiverSign are designed to support these improvements, but the real takeaway is this: a well-structured check-in is a sign of a well-run business.

Interested to see how WaiverSign works? Try a 7-day free trial today .

FAQs: Waiver and Release Forms

The Difference Between Waiver and Release: What Business Owners Need to Know

nikki@resmarkweb.com (Nikki DeSantis) — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 14:57:00 GMT

The Difference Between Waiver and Release: What Business Owners Need to Know

Running a business, especially one that involves physical activity, risk, or direct interaction with customers, means thinking about protection. Not just protecting your customers, but also your operations, your staff, and your long-term goals. That’s where liability forms come in, particularly waivers and releases.

At first glance, these two terms, waiver and release, seem interchangeable. While they’re often bundled together in legal forms, understanding their differences can help you create better, more effective documents. It also helps ensure that your digital waivers, like those created through WaiverSign, are doing the job you need them to do.

Let’s explore the difference between waiver and release, how each fits into your business strategy, and how you can use them to build trust and protect your bottom line.

Understanding the Basics of Waivers vs Releases

The Importance of Understanding the Liability Forms

Let’s start with some basic definitions:

Waiver : A waiver is a voluntary surrender of a known right. When a customer signs a waiver, they are choosing to give up their right to hold your business liable if something goes wrong.
Release : A release, or release of liability, typically comes after an incident has occurred. It’s an agreement not to pursue legal action in exchange for something, often a settlement.

So, in simple terms:

A waiver is signed before something happens.
A release is often signed after something happens.

WaiverSign’s platform is designed with business owners in mind. You don’t have to be a legal expert to create strong documents. With customizable templates, e-signature tracking, and branding tools, you can create waiver and release forms that:

Clearly communicate risks
Provide strong legal documentation
Enhance customer trust

It’s not just about protection. It’s about showing professionalism in every step of your process.

Waiver vs. Release

Understanding waiver vs release is important for risk management. When you know what kind of document you're working with, you can be clearer with your customers and better protected if issues arise.

Use Cases:

A rock climbing gym uses waivers to ensure participants know the risks and agree not to sue if injured.
After an incident, a spa might offer a release form with a refund or credit in exchange for the customer agreeing not to pursue further action.

Why Businesses Combine Waiver and Release Forms

Many companies opt for a liability release waiver, a hybrid document that combines language from both types. This all-in-one form provides upfront protection while also reinforcing the customer's acknowledgment of potential risks.

Digital waiver platforms like WaiverSign help businesses easily integrate waiver and release language into one seamless, branded experience that’s signed before participation begins.

The Legal Strength of Digital Forms

While we’re not offering legal advice, it’s worth noting that digital liability forms can carry the same weight as paper if done correctly. With WaiverSign, businesses benefit from:

Timestamped records
Cloud-based access
Easy retrieval for legal backup
Mobile-friendly signing experience

WaiverSign offers powerful benefits for marketing and customer engagement . When customers sign a digital waiver, you can include an opt-in checkbox for marketing communications. This allows you to build a contact list of people who are already familiar with your brand and interested in your services.

You can easily export waiver data for use in email marketing platforms, loyalty campaigns, or follow-up messages. Whether you’re promoting a seasonal offer or gathering reviews after a visit, WaiverSign helps you turn your waiver process into a marketing asset that drives long-term growth.

How WaiverSign Makes It Simple

When it’s used : A waiver is used before an activity takes place. A release is used after an incident or issue occurs.
Purpose : A waiver prevents legal claims before they arise. A release settles or prevents legal claims after an event.
Legal effect : A waiver gives up the right to sue before an activity. A release frees one party from liability after something happens.
Common use : Waivers are used in adventure businesses, fitness centers, and spas. Releases are used for conflict resolution or after incidents.

FAQs: Waiver and Release Forms

Make Liability Protection Seamless

Understanding the difference between waiver and release helps you protect your business and provide a more transparent, professional experience for your customers. Whether you're running a climbing gym, a fitness class, or a yoga retreat, having the right digital forms in place is key.

With WaiverSign, you can simplify how you collect, store, and manage your release of liability online while also making a great impression on every customer who walks through your door.

Ready to simplify your waiver process?Try it for free by clicking the button below!

What Is a Consent Form?

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 07:28:36 GMT

What is a Consent Form?

Stephen Porritt

As kids, we all learned how to get permission to do things (some of us more than others). Once we became adults, we may have thought that was the end of it. But it turns out “getting permission” is still a thing that grownups do, and there are some very important legal reasons for it.

Certain activities, like medical procedures and research trials, require “getting permission” first, usually by having the individual sign some type of consent form . The type of consent form will vary based on the activity in question and whether the permission is for a minor, but each is important for protecting the rights of the parties involved.

Informed Consent Forms

All medical procedures —and a good number of research trials—come with risks. In most cases, before a patient or participant can be involved in either, there needs to be proof that the individual was made aware of those risks, and agreed to having their person fiddled with in potentially harmful ways (no matter how small that potential).

Enter the Informed Consent Form. This type of form allows a patient to review the risks and declare their willingness to permit medical professionals to perform a medical procedure. It can also be used for participants in a research trial to give consent. Finally, these forms can be used for adults to give permission on behalf of their child (though this is sometimes called a Parental Consent Form).

Informed Assent Forms

When the medical procedure is being performed on a minor, or it’s a minor participating in a study, depending on the child’s age, they may be required to give their consent in addition to their parent or guardian’s. In these cases, the minor signs what’s called an Informed Assent Form.

These forms mimic Informed Consent Forms, informing of risks and giving consent the same way, but they also acknowledge that the minor doesn’t yet have the legal autonomy to fully consent for themselves. In most cases, children over the age of seven will be required to sign one, though some exceptions (such as emancipated minors) require a consent form to be signed instead.

Sometimes, the permission being given is not for the individual signing the document, but for their underage child. These are called Parental Consent Forms , and they can be used for a number of different things. First and foremost, as mentioned above, they permit medical procedures and research trials involving the minor to be performed.

Parental Consent Forms

Permission Slips

If a minor travels, especially across national boundaries, a Minor Travel Consent Form will often be required. These forms allow parents and guardians to indicate to border agents that the travel is approved and permissible and that the child is not running away or being abducted.

There are two travel situations that require this form—when the child is traveling alone, and when the child is traveling with a single parent. If both parents are present at the time of border crossing, the consent form isn’t required.

Minor Travel Consent

Child Medical Consent

Doing Consent Forms Right

Paperless. Contactless. Hassle-less. That’s WaiverSign.

This is probably the most common type of Parental Consent Form that people are familiar with. These forms, frequently used by schools and sports organizations, are often required for children to participate in extracurricular activities. They may be incredibly simple, even just a statement of what activity they will be involved in and a line to sign on, but they still fall under this category.

Related to the Minor Travel Consent Form is the Child Medical Consent Form. If a child is being left in the care of someone else, such as a grandparent or family friend, and the child is injured during this time, the chaperone will need permission to make medical decisions on behalf of the child. Child Medical Consent Forms give this kind of permission, allowing the chaperone to seek medical treatment for the child.

Not everyone needs consent forms on a regular basis, but if you do, it’s important to know you don’t have to administer them manually. With WaiverSign , you can create a customized document and administer it digitally, allowing the individual to sign from anywhere.

How to Write a Liability Waiver

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 06:13:00 GMT

How to Write a Liability Waiver or Release of Liability Form

Chun T. Wright
Washington DC-based attorney and former prosecutor at the US Attorney's Office, Chun serves as legal counsel to businesses across the country.

Writing a liability waiver is something that should not be taken lightly. Snagging a template online and calling it good could spell financial ruin for your organization. The small investment in legal help from someone who specializes in the field of liability waivers may pay dividends for years.

In this section, we’ll cover the importance of making liability waiver language clear, conspicuous, and voluntary. We'll also answer the common question regarding whether or not people can sue if they have signed a waiver.

Your Liability Waiver Language Must Be Clear

First, your liability waiver or release form has to be clear . Make the intentions of the waiver obvious, and make the language easy to understand. It should be written for a person of ordinary or average intelligence to understand without getting any additional explanation. The language of the waiver should avoid needlessly complex words, and they should never be designed to be confusing.

Most of all, the signers should know what rights they are being asked to give up, and what rights they are retaining.

There will obviously be legal terms in the waiver that people might not understand because they're not lawyers. But you can still give them context clues so they can infer the meaning of those words. Ultimately, your guiding principle should be "if you can use a simpler word, do it," since it's in your business's best interests for travelers to understand your waiver.

Your Liability Waiver Language Must Be Conspicuous

You also want the liability waiver to be conspicuous. It should not be buried or easily overlooked. Travel companies frequently ask whether the waivers can be included in the terms and conditions , or whether it should be a standalone document, and it's a fair question.

The answer in the majority of cases is that it should be a separate form, one that clearly communicates that by signing it they are giving up certain rights. This is because courts will look and see whether or not the language was conspicuous.

If the rights they're waiving are hidden among a bunch of other unrelated terms—if you're, say, talking about luggage requirements in one paragraph and that they waive all these rights if you're injured in the next—courts don't look favorably on that. It's much better for these things to be as hard to ignore or overlook as possible.

Finally, you'll want to make sure that the waiver is signed voluntarily. This is where you get into questions about where to incorporate the waiver in your signing process. You do not want to give the travelers the waiver right before the activity if you can help it. For most businesses, you'll want to give your traveler as much time as possible to review and sign the waiver.

What you're trying to avoid is having a traveler tell a court that they signed the waiver "under duress." If you leave them no time to read it before the experience starts, and they have to sign it before they can participate, that leaves them some wiggle room (legally speaking) to make the "under duress" claim.

Now, if you’re using paper waivers, this presents a bit of a problem, as it's not very easy to get people to sign paper waivers before the activity. Using a digital waiver solution makes it a lot easier to get travelers, guests, and participants to sign their waivers ahead of time. We’ll talk more about that in a later section.

For now, just remember to give signers as much time as possible to review the document.

Your Liability Waiver Must Be Signed Voluntarily

Can You Sue After Signing A Waiver?

Other Sections:

Liability waivers don't function as a magic wand, making your legal disputes disappear and making liability issues a thing of the past. People can and do sue, even after they've signed a waiver (see the above warning about signing under duress). The longer you're in business, the greater the odds you'll have to deal with a dispute. That's just how it is.

But by having a waiver, you can deter lawsuits, making the plaintiff's case less attractive to their lawyer in the first place. You'll also, as already mentioned, educate travelers of the dangers of the activity and screen out unsuitable participants, and you'll provide yourself with a legal defense since that person entered into a contract with you and released you from liability. Lastly, you'll have evidence that they assumed the risk of the activity.

It is important to remember, however, that a waiver also does not release you from liability for everything. It's against public policy for people to waive instances of gross negligence or intentional misconduct, so let's give a brief explanation of what those two things are.

Gross negligence means something more than ordinary or simple carelessness. Where simple negligence can be failing to pay attention, assuming an issue is harmless, or forgetting to check something, gross negligence is a reckless disregard of another person's welfare. It requires knowing that what you're doing (or not doing) has the potential to cause real harm, and then failing to do things properly anyway.

Intentional misconduct, on the other hand, simply means that the harm was intentional. This differs from gross negligence in that negligence doesn't actually intend to harm anyone. With negligence, you're aware of the potential for harm, but don't care enough to remedy the situation. With intentional misconduct, you want someone to get hurt.

Those kinds of bad behavior are not what courts want to encourage. As a result, signers can't release you from those liabilities, and you'll most likely be held fully accountable by the court. For simple negligence, though, waivers can go a long way toward protecting you against disputes.

*As part of WaiverSign’s partnership with the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), we jointly hosted a webinar on August 25, 2020. In that webinar, Online Waivers & Digital Release Forms, lawyer and adventure travel legal expert Chun T. Wright discussed participant liability concerns, and how online waivers help with mitigation. This page was adapted from that presentation.

Can Someone Sue After Signing a Waiver?

nikki@resmarkweb.com (Nikki DeSantis) — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 20:22:53 GMT

How to Turn Your Waivers Into a Marketing Powerhouse with WaiverSign

Sustainability is more than just a trend. It is a responsibility. Businesses everywhere are looking for ways to cut waste, lower their carbon footprint, and operate more efficiently. One simple yet powerful step is switching to paperless waiver forms . Going digital not only makes business operations smoother but also helps protect the environment.

What Does a Waiver Actually Do?

Can Someone Still Sue Your Business?

A waiver, or release of liability , is intended to show that participants understand the risks of an activity and agree not to hold your business legally responsible in certain situations.

But while a waiver can help protect your company, it doesn’t cover everything. Waivers aren’t magic shields. They are part of a larger system of safety and responsibility.

If you're not sure whether your waiver is doing its job, take a look at What to Include in Your Liability Waiver, and When to Have More Than One .

Creating effective waivers doesn’t have to be hard. With WaiverSign , your business can easily build custom waivers, collect signatures online, and keep everything organized.

With digital waiver software, you can:

Let participants sign from any device
Automatically store and organize signed forms
Eliminate paper clutter and manual filing
Update forms anytime without printing

Want to know more about the benefits of going paperless? Check out Benefits of Electronic Waivers .

Common Questions About Liability Waivers

The answer is: yes, they can. Just because someone signed a waiver doesn't mean your business is automatically off the hook.

Courts consider waivers carefully, and they don’t always hold up. Here are a few common reasons why a waiver might not protect your business:

Gross negligence : If your company fails to follow basic safety practices or ignores serious risks, a court may find that the waiver doesn’t apply.
Unclear or vague wording : If your waiver is confusing or doesn’t clearly outline the risks, it might not stand in court.
Improper execution : If the waiver wasn’t signed properly, or if a minor signed it without a parent or guardian, it could be invalid.
Illegal activity : Waivers don’t protect businesses that engage in unlawful behavior.

That’s why it’s critical to make sure your waiver is clearly written, easy to understand, and specific to your activities.

What Courts Look For in a Valid Waiver

When evaluating a waiver, courts typically ask questions like:

Was the waiver easy to understand?
Did the customer sign it voluntarily?
Were specific risks clearly outlined?
Was it signed before the activity?

If the answer is yes to most of these, your waiver stands a better chance. But it’s important to remember: this blog post is not legal advice . If you're dealing with an actual legal issue, speak to an attorney.

Waivers Help, But They Don't Replace Safety

Even the best waiver can't take the place of proper business practices. Your company still has a duty to:

Maintain a safe environment : Clearly mark hazards or remove them entirely.
Keep equipment in working condition : Perform regular checks and maintenance.
Hire and train staff : Ensure your team knows their responsibilities and how to handle emergencies.
Give clear instructions : Explain how to use equipment and follow safety procedures.

When a business falls short in these areas, it can put customers at serious risk, and it can weaken the legal protection that a waiver provides. A strong waiver helps, but it’s not a substitute for doing the right things behind the scenes.

Document your safety procedures. Keep records of staff training and equipment checks. Encourage a culture of responsibility and safety. These actions not only keep your participants safe, but they also show the court that your business is acting in good faith if something ever does go wrong.

Waivers work best as part of a bigger risk management plan, not as a standalone fix.

Make Waivers Easy and Effective with WaiverSign

Here are some of the most common questions businesses ask about liability waivers:

1. Are waivers legally binding?
In many cases, courts have found that waivers can be legally enforceable when they are properly written, clearly outline risks, and are signed voluntarily.

2. Can a minor sign a waiver?
In most states, a waiver signed only by a minor is not enforceable. A parent or legal guardian typically must sign on their behalf.

3. Can I be sued even if I have a signed waiver?
Yes. A signed waiver does not prevent someone from filing a lawsuit. However, a strong waiver may help your business defend itself in court.

4. Should I use a waiver template from the internet?
It's better to use a waiver tailored to your business and reviewed by a legal expert. Generic templates may not cover the specific risks involved in your services.

5. How often should I update my waiver?
You should update your waiver whenever you change your services, introduce new activities, or learn about new risks that should be disclosed.

6. What happens if someone refuses to sign a waiver?
In general, businesses may choose to deny participation to individuals who do not sign a waiver. However, be sure your policies comply with local laws or regulations.

7. Are electronic signatures valid for waivers?
Yes. Electronic signatures are legally valid in most cases and can even offer better tracking and storage than paper forms.

Still Have Questions About Online Waivers?

Want more answers about how liability waivers work and how to make them stronger? Visit our FAQs here .

Help Strengthen Your Business’s Risk Management Approach

At the end of the day, waivers are an essential part of protecting your company. But to be effective, they need to be well-written, easy to understand, and properly signed and stored.

Do what you can to protect your business and get your online waiver software !

With WaiverSign , creating effective waivers is easier than ever. You can quickly build, send, and manage digital waivers, release of liability forms, consent forms, permission slips, and more, all in one place.

See Pricing and Sign up for a free trial today!

What Is a Liability Waiver?

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 06:12:57 GMT

What is a Liability Waiver & Why Should I Use One?

Chun T. Wright
Washington DC-based attorney and former prosecutor at the US Attorney's Office, Chun serves as legal counsel to businesses across the country.

What Is A Liability Waiver?

In a nutshell, a liability waiver , also known as a release form, release of liability, or waiver of liability, is a legally binding contract between parties that addresses the risks involved in a given activity. In our context, it's between the traveler or participant and the activity operator.

A waiver has two primary purposes. First, it informs participants about "inherent risks," referring to potential risks that a release may be subjected to and must be informed of before signing a release of liability form. Second, it allows participants to release the travel company from the liability that comes with those risks.

Liability waivers are meant to be signed prior to any physical activity or other activity involving potential legal liability amongst parties. In other words, the participant agrees, in advance of an incident occurring, not to hold the travel company accountable for harm relating to various risks, including a company’s negligence, in a court of law. This is sometimes referred to as a hold-harmless agreement, as you are effectively agreeing that you were made aware of the inherent and other risks associated with the activity. This differs from a settlement, where a participant agrees not to pursue a lawsuit or any legal action after an incident. This usually involves some financial offer and corresponding legal documents..

At the end of the day, a liability waiver or release is a legally binding document that educates your guests and protects your business.

If you're an event organizer, a waiver of liability form is a great way to make sure that you are not held legally responsible in the event of incidents causing injury, illness, or death. It's also important to create waiver forms that are designed for parents and guardians to sign for minors. This will help in cases like field trips or activities where kids cannot responsibly sign for themselves.

Why Should You Use A Liability Waiver?

The most obvious reason to use a liability waiver, or release form, is that travel companies want to protect themselves from claims of injuries or damages that arise from mishaps that might happen on a trip. This can be for physical injuries, financial ramifications, or other unique circumstances. Mitigating liability—especially in the adventure-travel industry—is a serious concern, and waivers go a long way toward doing that. After all, the last thing a company wants is bad word of mouth and a lengthy legal dispute.

As previously mentioned, another reason to use a waiver form is that it educates the traveler about the potential risks of a trip. This general rule is key since not all members of the public are willing to accept those inherent risks with certain activities. For those people, a release of liability form serves as an important screening tool for any specific event or sponsoring department within the organization. It can give a potential releasor or signing party the chance to decide whether the activity is right for them before they fully commit to it.

While you certainly want as many people as possible to book trips through your company, a small percentage of those people may not be right for that activity, even if they're willing to spend any amount of money. They may be frightened by the experience or angered by the risks involved, especially fearing the ramifications that may take place in the event of an accident. In other words, release forms are a good way to figure out if a traveler will have a positive experience on a particular trip. After all, you really only want the guests whom you can actually make happy.

Finally, a third reason to use a release of liability waiver is that insurance companies will oftentimes require that you have one before they will insure you. A liability waiver will help travel companies protect themselves so that an insurer is not so easily susceptible to having to pay out for negligence or sudden lawsuits from parties.

The bottom line is that a liability waiver or release form is a critical piece of your risk management program in the adventure space. Traveling itself, as well as participating in an adventure activity, carries its own particular risks, and using a waiver form helps prevent those risks from harming your business as the releasee.

This is a question that comes up often for attorneys in the travel industry, and the answer depends on where you do business and with whom you conduct business. In most states across the U.S., waivers are actually binding contracts, provided that the traveler agrees to the release form by signing it and that the release meets certain conditions established by state law (through the courts and/or statutes).financial lenders, and insurance companies.

It's essential to consult with a local legal professional to get a greater understanding of the requirements in order for a release of liability waiver to be properly implemented to protect the releasor and the releasee. Laws throughout the United States are different for liability waiver forms, and they differ even more when the agreements cross interstate and international borders.

For example, in the United Kingdom, the idea of a waiver that releases a company from negligent acts is a foreign concept while it's acceptable here in the United States for voluntary activities like adventure travel. The United Kingdom has very specific laws around package holidays, and tour companies in that nation cannot waive ordinary negligence as a result. The kind of indemnification clauses found in liability waivers in the U.S. provides travel companies with additional peace of mind regarding legal action

Now, with respect to the conditions that must be met, you'll have to consult an expert in your area regarding these kinds of potential lawsuits and other legal action. It is important to note, however, that regardless of your location, courts don't like a release of liability waiver that isn't clear. They are disfavored because travelers give up a lot of rights by signing these legal documents . Should you ever be in court defending a liability waiver, be aware that they are subject to significant scrutiny. You'll therefore want your liability waiver to be airtight, and that only comes with help from a professional.

Are Liability Waivers Legally Binding?

Is A Digital Liability Waiver Better Than A Paper Waiver?

A digital liability waiver isn’t necessarily better or more legally binding than getting a waiver signed on paper but they are certainly no less accepted simply because they are digital. However, there are some benefits to writing a digital waiver that many organizations and lawyers appreciate:

Signed waivers stored online are generally quick and easy to locate.
All information from the signor is legible. Sometimes handwriting on paper waivers can be hard to read or completely illegible.
Data such as date of birth or email address can be verified by the waiver signing platform to ensure it is complete and at least in a valid format.

Online Waiver Software Built for Your Business

Paperless. Contactless. Simple. Get organized and stop worrying about waivers today.

Your customers will love the convenience. You'll love the peace of mind.

Make Life Easier with WaiverSign

Other Sections:

What to Include in a Liability Waiver

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 06:13:02 GMT

What to Include in Your Liability Waiver, and When to Have More Than One

Chun T. Wright
Washington DC-based attorney and former prosecutor at the US Attorney's Office, Chun serves as legal counsel to businesses across the country.

Liability waivers, also called liability releases forms , are routinely used by businesses. This includes travel companies, outdoor recreation businesses, outfitters, and now—because of COVID—an increasing number of businesses that may have not used waivers before.

In the travel and outdoor recreation world, businesses understand the critical role that liability waivers play to 1) educate travelers and participants about the risks of a trip or activity, and 2) protect businesses from legal claims that range from minor mishaps (e.g., small injuries) to catastrophic events (e.g., death).

But what you put in your liability waiver can mean the difference between winning a legal dispute, and closing up shop for good. In this post, we’ll discuss what’s most critical for a release to include, to help you make sure you’re better protected.

What To Include In Your Liability Waiver

Waivers (including digital waivers ) are legally binding contracts in most states, but are strictly scrutinized by courts given the significant rights that consumers give up by agreeing to them. For this reason, your waiver, whether created from a template or custom-drafted for your business, should be well-written, clear and unambiguous, conspicuous, and presented as early as feasible to your customer.

Generally, a liability waiver should include the following provisions:

Risks

First and foremost, it should include a list of the representative inherent risks and any special risks of a trip and/or core activities in an itinerary. For instance, if whitewater rafting is an activity you offer, risks such as falling out of the raft, injury from contact with submerged objects, and drowning may be expressly mentioned. Risks of travel may include venturing into remote areas with a lack of access to medical facilities, encountering roads and other infrastructure that may not be to the same standards as the traveler's home country, and so on.

A release clause in which the participant or travelers expressly releases your business from claims for damages related to the risks of their trip and/or activities. This clause often begins with language similar to: "I, the traveler RELEASE, DISCHARGE, COVENANT NOT TO SUE AND HOLD HARMLESS Business A and its [list of all who are released]."

Be sure to categorically identify all individuals and entities that should be included in the release, e.g., owners, officers, employees, agents, representatives, related entities, independent contractors/sales representatives, volunteers, successors, and assigns.

"Successors and assigns" are often missing in liability waivers, but if you change your business entity or sell your business, a liability release that omits "successors and assigns" may not cover the new entity or successor business. This clause should stand out to the traveler/participant; use bolded language, larger type, and/or a different font to ensure that the traveler/participant's attention is drawn to it.

Liability Waiver Release

Assumption of Risk

An express voluntary assumption of the risk clause that states that the participant or traveler understands and voluntarily assumes the risks, both known and unknown, associated with the trip or activity. As with the release clause, the traveler/participant's attention should be drawn to this provision.

An indemnification clause is optional but common. This clause provides that the traveler/participant will pay for your defense costs and reimburse your business for any damages that it is required to pay if sued as a result of the traveler/participant's actions or inactions.

Indemnification

A forum selection, venue, and choice of law provision. This provision sets out where disputes will be brought (your location will typically be preferred), what forum (e.g., state or federal court or arbitration), and what law will govern. Without this provision, if you and the traveler/participant have a dispute over these issues, you will have to litigate them in court.

The requirements for a waiver to be valid vary from state to state so it is very important that you consult your state laws and an attorney on what to include your liability waiver or release.

Forum/Venue Selection

A common question that businesses ask is "Can I just put the waiver in my terms and conditions?" While it is tempting to go that route with the thinking that "Hey, it sure is a lot easier to administer a single document,” and “Who wants to bother customers with more than one document?" don't cave in to the siren's call of convenience without considering all of the pros and cons of a single document.

On the con side, a key factor that courts examine in deciding whether to uphold a waiver is whether it is conspicuous, i.e., written or displayed in a way that a person would have noticed it. If a liability waiver appears in a terms and conditions agreement, it will probably be nestled in with payment and cancellation policies, baggage requirements, insurance expectations, passport and visa information, and other provisions that could make it much harder for you to claim that your liability waiver was conspicuous.

Why not make it easier on yourself and make it harder for someone to challenge your waiver on conspicuous grounds by making your liability waiver a standalone, separate agreement from your terms and conditions? This approach is one to seriously consider, especially given how digital waiver services can make it simple and seamless to present travelers/participants with multiple agreements.

Travel and outdoor recreation companies often have a suite of documents for travelers/participants to sign such as Traveler/Participant Information form, Images Release, Medical Consent and Questionnaire, and Travel Insurance Disclaimer. A digital waiver can easily be added to this suite without disrupting the customer onboarding process—though you should still speak with your attorney and business team for legal and business advice on how best to use and incorporate a waiver in your business operations.

By following these tips and considering whether to make your release of liability form a standalone document, you will make your business stronger and better able to protect itself from legal challenges.

When You Want More Than One Agreement

Environmental Benefits of Switching to Digital Waivers

nikki@resmarkweb.com (Nikki DeSantis) — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 15:37:16 GMT

Environmental Benefits of Switching to Digital Waivers

The Hidden Environmental Cost of Paper-Based Waivers

A Smarter, More Sustainable Way to Handle Waivers

Many businesses do not realize how much paper-based waivers harm the environment. Paper production uses a lot of resources and creates pollution. Here are some interesting and important facts:

The paper industry creates about 26 percent of all waste in landfills .
Producing just one ton of paper requires 24,000 gallons of water .
The U.S. alone uses over 68 million trees every year for paper products.
Paper production causes 10 percent of deforestation worldwide .

(Source: Business Waste - Paper Waste Facts and Statistics )

Businesses that use paper waivers add to this waste. Switching to paperless solutions is an easy way to reduce environmental harm and adopt more sustainable practices.

At WaiverSign, we believe small business decisions can make a big difference. That is why we have partnered with the National Forest Foundation to plant a tree for every new WaiverSign customer. By choosing a paperless waiver solution , businesses do not just reduce waste. They also help restore forests for future generations.

Make the Switch to a Paper-Free Future

Going digital is not just good for the planet. It is also good for business. Digital waivers help companies work more efficiently and improve customer experience. They also show that a company cares about sustainability in business .

By using paperless waiver forms , businesses can:

Get rid of paper storage and filing cabinets.
Spend less time managing paper forms.
Save money on paper, ink, printing, and shredding.
Offer a faster, more modern way for customers to sign forms.

To learn more about paperless waiver solutions , visit WaiverSign’s Electronic Waiver Features .

How Digital Waivers Reduce Environmental Impact

Cutting Down on Paper Waste

Every time a business switches to digital waivers, fewer trees are cut down, and less waste goes into landfills. Companies that use paperless solutions help protect forests and keep our planet healthier.

Lowering Carbon Emissions Through Digital Solutions

The environmental cost of paper goes beyond cutting down trees. The process of making, transporting, and disposing of paper creates pollution. Going digital helps reduce:

The energy used to make paper.
Pollution from transporting paper and printed forms.
Waste from old and unused paper documents.

Cost-Effective and Efficient for Businesses

Going paperless is not just about being eco-friendly. It also saves money. Printing, storing, and managing paper forms costs time and resources. Digital waivers eliminate these costs and make business operations easier.

Businesses Leading the Way with Digital Waivers

Many industries are switching to paperless waiver forms to improve efficiency and sustainability. Some examples include:

Tourism and Adventure Companies : Reducing paperwork for bookings and liability waivers.
Gyms and Fitness Centers : Making sign-ups faster and easier.
Spas and Wellness Centers : Going digital with consent forms for treatments and services.
Healthcare and Medical Offices : Cutting back on paperwork for patient intake forms.
Corporate and Legal Services : Managing contracts and waivers online.

Small Change, Big Impact

Switching to paperless waiver forms is one of the easiest ways for businesses to support sustainability in business . Going digital helps companies cut costs, work more efficiently, and protect the environment.

Are you ready to make a difference? Start your 7-day free trial with WaiverSign today and join the movement toward a more sustainable future.

How to Turn Your Waivers Into a Marketing Powerhouse with WaiverSign

nikki@resmarkweb.com (Nikki DeSantis) — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 09:49:31 GMT

How to Turn Your Waivers Into a Marketing Powerhouse with WaiverSign

When you think about waivers, marketing probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. After all, waivers exist primarily to protect businesses from liability. But what if we told you that digital waivers could double as one of the most powerful marketing tools in your arsenal?

Whether you run a fitness studio, adventure tour company, rental business, sports league, or wellness retreat, you already have a goldmine of customer data at your fingertips. The key is knowing how to leverage that data effectively to increase engagement, improve customer retention, and drive more revenue.

With waiver software like WaiverSign, not only can you streamline your waiver process and ensure legal protection, but you can also turn every signed waiver into a marketing opportunity.

In this article, we’ll show you how to transform your digital waiver system into a marketing powerhouse.

Why Waivers Are an Untapped Marketing Tool

Traditional marketing tactics like loyalty programs, email sign-ups, and social media engagement require customers to voluntarily opt in. However, waivers are different—they’re a necessary part of the process. Every customer must complete a waiver before participating in your service, meaning you get access to 100% of your customers’ information (with proper consent).

Compare that to a newsletter opt-in, where only a fraction of customers sign up. With WaiverSign, you can seamlessly collect valuable contact information from every visitor, making it one of the most effective ways to build your marketing database.

Step 1: Collecting the Right Data

To use waivers as a marketing tool, you need to collect the right information. Most waivers require a name, date, and signature, but that alone isn’t enough for marketing.

Here’s what you should include in your digital waiver form:

Email Address – Essential for email marketing campaigns, promotions, and follow-ups.
Phone Number – Allows you to send text message promotions and appointment reminders.
Birthday – Great for sending special birthday promotions or discounts.
Zip Code – Helps with location-based marketing and tracking customer demographics.
Interests or Preferences – Useful for segmenting your audience and sending personalized offers.

By customizing your WaiverSign form, you ensure that you’re gathering data you can use to re-engage customers long after their visit.

Step 2: Obtaining Consent for Marketing

One of the biggest advantages of WaiverSign is the ability to export and manage customer data easily.

How to Export Data & Upload to Your CRM

Your customer data is securely stored in the cloud and can be exported anytime for marketing purposes.

Export Contact Data – Navigate to the Signed Documents page and click “Export Contacts” to download a CSV file with all customer information.
Bulk Export Waivers – To export signed documents, go to Signed Documents >
Export Documents , and receive a download link via email.
Seamless CRM Integration – Upload your CSV file into your email marketing platform (Mailchimp, Constant Contact, etc.) or CRM (HubSpot, Salesforce, etc.) to start targeted campaigns.

Pro Tip: Segment your contacts by visit frequency, demographics, and preferences to maximize engagement!

Step 4: Exporting Your Waiver Data for CRM & Email Marketing

Before using customer data for marketing, you must obtain explicit consent to comply with TCPA (Telephone Consumer Protection Act) and CAN-SPAM laws.

To do this, add a simple opt-in checkbox to your WaiverSign form:

✅ I agree to receive marketing emails and text messages about promotions and special offers.

By making this opt-in clear and transparent, you ensure that the contacts you collect are ready to engage with your brand.

Step 3: Automating Follow-Ups and Engagement

Now that you have customer data, it’s time to put it to work. Instead of letting customer information sit unused, set up automated marketing campaigns that keep your business top-of-mind.

1. Welcome Emails & Texts

As soon as a customer signs their waiver, send them a welcome email or text thanking them for their visit. This is a great opportunity to include:

A special first-time discount for their next visit
A call-to-action to follow your business on social media
A referral offer to encourage them to bring a friend next time

2. Re-Engagement Campaigns

Since your waiver system tracks customer visits, you can set up automated reminders for customers who haven’t returned in a while. For example:

30-day follow-up: “Hey [First Name], we miss you! Here’s 10% off your next visit.”
Seasonal promotions: Send special offers for holidays, birthdays, or seasonal events.

3. Loyalty & VIP Programs

Encourage repeat business by integrating your waivers with a loyalty program. For instance, customers who sign waivers multiple times can be added to a VIP club that grants them access to exclusive discounts and perks.

Automate Data Syncing with WaiverSign + Zapier

WaiverSign now offers Zapier integration , allowing you to automate the process of transferring customer data to your favorite marketing tools, CRMs, and communication platforms.

With Zapier , you can instantly connect WaiverSign with thousands of apps, including:

Email Marketing (Mailchimp, Constant Contact, Klaviyo)
CRMs (HubSpot, Salesforce, Zoho)
SMS Marketing (Twilio, SimpleTexting)
Survey & Feedback Tools (Google Forms, Typeform)

Common Zapier FAQ

Why aren't some fields transferring correctly to my other apps?
Some applications require specific data formatting. For example, Mailchimp requires DOB (Date of Birth) to be formatted as MM/DD , while WaiverSign stores it as YYYY-MM-DD . To fix this, you can create a formatting rule in Zapier to convert the data to match the required format.

How much does Zapier cost?
Zapier offers a free plan for users processing fewer than 100 waivers per month. However, for higher volumes, you may need a paid Zapier plan. See current pricing here: Zapier Pricing .

I don’t see the Zapier option in my WaiverSign account settings.
Zapier integration requires an account upgrade—please contact WaiverSign Support to enable this feature.

With WaiverSign and Zapier, you can save time , reduce manual data entry , and automate marketing workflows —ensuring that every waiver signed helps grow your business.

Step 5: Using Digital Waivers for Surveys & Feedback

Want to improve your customer experience? Use digital waivers to collect customer feedback!

After their visit, send an automated survey asking:

How was your experience?
Would you recommend us to a friend?
What could we improve?

Customers who leave positive reviews can be encouraged to post a public review on Google or Yelp, helping you attract new customers.

Step 6: Turning Paper Waivers Into Digital Marketing Assets

Most businesses view waivers as a legal necessity, but in reality, they are a powerful marketing tool. By collecting valuable customer data, obtaining consent, and setting up automated marketing campaigns, you can turn every waiver into an opportunity to increase customer engagement and revenue.

With WaiverSign, you can effortlessly collect, store, and export customer data—making it easier than ever to connect with your audience, grow your business, and boost revenue.

Ready to turn your waivers into a powerful marketing tool? Sign up for a free trial with WaiverSign today and start maximizing your customer engagement!

Making Waivers Work for Your Business

If you’re still using paper waivers, switching to digital is a game-changer for your marketing. With WaiverSign, you:

Eliminate manual data entry and paper storage
Instantly collect customer information in a searchable database
Automate marketing messages without extra work
Reduce wait times with pre-signed waivers

Going digital doesn’t just streamline your business—it enhances your ability to market effectively and grow your customer base.

What Is a Code of Conduct & What Does It Cover? | WaiverSign

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 08:44:55 GMT

What Is a Code of Conduct and Do We Need To Have One?

Brandon Lake

A code of conduct (CoC) is a set of guidelines or code of ethics that helps to ensure that all community members involved in a particular activity are treated fairly and with respect. CoCs often cover things like expected behavior, communication guidelines, and grievance procedures. They are designed to create a safe and positive environment for everyone involved and indicate an organization’s commitment to professional conduct through a public statement. Many organizations, including tech companies and open-source projects, have CoCs with ethical standards their members are expected to follow. This helps to ensure that everyone in the community feels safe and welcome. This includes factors such as ethnicity, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and more. Adherence to a CoC helps to create a more inclusive environment for everyone in the community, from current stakeholders to future applicants. WaiverSign makes it easier than ever to answer the crucial question of “what is a code of conduct?” and to utilize your CoC. Our online waiver and release system makes it easy to get your code of conduct signed and keeps your organization safe. Our system is customizable, taking into account your specific needs, and we provide everything you need to get started quickly and easily. If you are thinking about creating a CoC for your organization or community, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the code is clear and easy to understand. Next, make sure that it covers all of the important aspects of behavior and communication. Finally, be sure to promote and enforce the CoC. This means making sure that everyone involved is aware of the code and understands what is expected of them.

What Is A Code Of Conduct And Why Is It Important?

When people come together to work on a project, they need to agree on the basic rules of how they will behave toward each other. This is what a code of conduct is for. It sets out a common understanding of how people will treat each other in order to create a safe and productive environment. A CoC is important because it helps to prevent harassment and abuse. It also provides a way for people to report any unacceptable behavior. This helps to protect everyone involved in the project from any potential harm. Having a CoC is also good for business. It can help to attract new contributors, and it can improve the overall quality of the business. It can also help to build a community of supporters around the business. Learn more and sign an example Code of Conduct

What Is The Difference Between CoC And Terms Of Service?

To completely answer the question “what is a code of conduct?” it’s important to understand what a CoC is not. A CoC is not a terms of service (ToS), which is a document that outlines the terms and conditions under which a person or organization agrees to use a service. A ToS can include items such as a refund policy, the allowed usage of the service, and the consequences for violation of the code.

When you can answer the question of “what is a code of conduct?” and begin creating your CoC, there are many reasons you should consider digitizing it. By having a digital CoC, you can easily make changes and updates as needed, and you can also ensure that everyone who needs access to it has access to it. Additionally, a digital CoC can be easily shared and embedded on your website or other online platforms. Another benefit of having a digital CoC is that it’s easy to store and save. You can store it on your computer or other electronic devices, and you can also print it out if needed. This can be helpful when you need to store it and access it easily. Having a digital code of conduct that employees or other memers of the organization can actually sign brings a new level of importance to the code of conduct, vs having it only posted on your website as a reference.

Why Should You Digitize Your CoC?

The purpose of a code of conduct is to provide a set of expectations for the members of a group or community. This document should outline the responsibilities of individuals within the community, as well as the consequences of violating these expectations. When creating a CoC, it is important to understand the question “What is a Code of Conduct?” and to consider the specific needs of the individual or group. Some things to consider include:

Ethical Considerations - relating to appropriate workplace behavior
Values - relating to honesty, tolerance, and respect
Responsibility - relating to owning ones own actions, managing one’s own work, and maintaining care of their own obligations
Standard of Conduct - relating to avoidnig conflicts of interest, fulfilling your dutiies, and proper use of company equipment and services
Procedures - relating to company policies already put in place
Repercussions - relating to results from not following the CoC and penalties afterwards

Some common conflicts of interest and professional misconduct include:

Using one's position for personal gain
Accepting gifts from others
Having inappropriate relationships with clients or customers
Fraud
Bribery
Retaliation
Sexual harassment

The consequences of violating a CoC can vary depending on the situation. They may include disciplinary action, such as a warning or termination of employment, or legal penalties.

What Should Be Included In An Effective Code Of Conduct?

A CoC should function as a standard in your workplace or community. It empowers the business to hold their people accountable to a code expected of everyone. It’s always a good idea to set in place standards of acceptable behavior to protect you and your business. WaiverSign makes it easy to create, share, edit, store, and send any code of conduct you may need. An online code of conduct form can make it cost-effective and efficient to onboard new employees and update current staff. Reach out today for a demo and see how WaiverSign can improve your business workflow. Learn more and sign an example Code of Conduct

Should My Business Have A Code Of Conduct?

What Is a Model Release Form Used For? | WaiverSign

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 08:44:54 GMT

What Is a Model Release Form and Why Do I Need One?

Brandon Lake

A model release form is a legal document that permits a photographer or other artist to use a person's likeness in a work of art. The form typically asks for the person's name, age, contact information, and a description of the work that will be created. It also requires the signature of the person giving permission. Model release forms are often used in advertising and other commercial contexts, where the use of a person's likeness can be valuable. However, they can also be used in different contexts, such as when a photographer wants to use a person's image in a portfolio or website. With WaiverSign’s online waiver software , you can make your model release forms so much easier to manage.

What Is A Model Release Form And Why Do I Need It?

People are often surprised to learn that they need a model release to use a person's name, photograph, or likeness in advertising, marketing, or other commercial purposes. So, what is a model release form? The form should state the specific permissions the person is giving you, such as the right to use their name and photograph in advertising and marketing materials. It should also state the right to use their name and photo on your website and the right to use their name and photograph in connection with product endorsements. It's important to note that a model release form is not the same as a release form for use in television or film production. A release form for television or film production permits using a person's name, photograph, or likeness in connection with a particular project. If you want to use a person's name, photograph, or likeness in your advertising or marketing materials, you need to get a model release form from that person. If you're not sure whether you need a model release or a release form for use in television or film production, it's best to consult an attorney.

What Data Should I Include In This Form?

As your business grows, so will your priorities. Digitizing these files is the easiest way to track, check, send, and verify model release forms right when you need them. Focus on what you’re amazing at, and let WaiverSign handle all the forms and waivers you’ll need. With WaiverSign, you can easily store them on your computer or cloud-based storage service and access them from any device with an Internet connection. This makes it easy to find and use release forms when you need them. Having all your release forms on hand would be valuable in a sticky situation where someone claims you stole their likeness for marketing purposes. Many times, models don’t understand what they are signing away, so having proof of release a few quick taps away on your phone or computer can help put your mind at ease. Filing, storing, and maintaining paper files can be both costly and time-consuming. When you have a digital release form , you can quickly and easily send it to models, other people involved, or people who need it. This can save you time and money on printing and postage costs.

Why Should I Make This Form Digital?

When creating a simple model release form, there are a few specific pieces of data that you will want to have. This information will help ensure that you protect yourself and the model.

These four pieces are the most important:

Name - Seems obvious, but just in case. The full legal name of the model is a good idea, along with any model alias’ they may have. This will help to identify the individual if something happens and you need to track them down. It also protects you if they are representing themselves falsely.
Description of the photo or video - You will want to include a description of the photo or video. This will help ensure there's no confusion about the release. Be as detailed as possible and include photo editing rights so you can manipulate the photo however you need.
Signature with Date - You will want to include the date the release is signed to help to document when the release was signed and ensure that it's still valid. Always make sure the signature matches the name given.

Contact Information - Include contact information for both the model and yourself, to ensure that either party can reach out if there are any questions or concerns. It’s a good idea to include phone numbers, email addresses, and current mailing addresses. Your information can, of course, be added directly to the model release language. The model’s information will be added in the online form during signing.

While many professional photographers and businesses use a generic model release form, there are several reasons why it’s a good idea to customize a simple model release form to fit your specific needs. Sometimes custom release forms can protect you from potential legal problems that using a generic form may pose. You may not be covered by all the specific legal protections you need. For instance, a custom form can include language that protects the photographer from legal claims that may arise from using a person's likeness. With WaiverSign, photography businesses can create custom fields, modify the document as needed, and select the inputs they need. WaiverSign also enables companies to track who has signed the waiver and when. This gives businesses peace of mind that they have the documentation they need in the event of an accident or incident.

Try your model release form with WaiverSign

Why Should I Customize My Model Release Form?

Liability Waivers For Volunteer Cleanups | WaiverSign

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 07:03:55 GMT

WaiverSign Makes Liability Waivers Easier for Volunteer Cleanups

Chad Allen

Cleaning up our communities is important to make sure we show off the true beauty of our hometowns. Letting litter pile up on the side of the street takes away from what makes our communities shine at their brightest. Our environment is the only one we have, so taking the time to clean up our neighborhoods is one of the easiest ways to not only beautify our backyards but also show a united front as neighbors.

Community cleanup events present plenty of volunteer opportunities. However, there is a risk that comes with picking up litter and debris that has piled up, as well as taking part in restoration projects to better the environment. The Great Raleigh Cleanup recognized those risks and wanted to make sure its volunteers signed waivers before tackling these important tasks. That's where WaiverSign sought to make things easier for their crew to focus on boosting their city's beauty.

The Background: Rallying For Raleigh

Preston Ross III founded The Great Raleigh Cleanup after noticing that his hometown, and the capital of North Carolina, was garnering far too much litter on the ground. His goal: create an environmental advocacy group that could make Raleigh the cleanest and greenest city in the United States.

Preston knew he could take his case to the local government and try and call out politicians for the problem. Instead, he got out and started picking up trash. From a team of just two volunteers, The Great Raleigh Cleanup has continued to increase in size, with more volunteer applications coming in than ever from residents and North Carolinians alike who are looking to slap on the work gloves and beautify their community.

While any volunteer program loves getting more boots on the ground, it's also important to keep volunteers safe. That's where The Great Raleigh Cleanup sought out a digital solution to having potential volunteers sign liability waivers in advance of their helping out. WaiverSign was there with the right online formatting to make sure that waivers were not only signed but also set aside safely for review when needed.

The Problem: So Many Volunteers, So Little Time

While Preston and The Great Raleigh Cleanup crew were thrilled to see an influx of volunteers, they soon realized that they needed a quicker registration process that also saved them from having to store mountains of paperwork. While helping hands for a big sweep is great, volunteer cleanup liability waivers are a must as there are hidden dangers that lurk with picking up trash. Rather than having to deal with paper documents at the cleanup site, digital solutions could let everything be taken care of online.

Placing a liability waiver online would not only avoid the hassle on cleanup day, but also give volunteers the time to read over a waiver before offering up their electronic, or e-signature. The Great Raleigh Cleanup's staff knew that with the right platform, online waivers can be signed with ease and their focus could turn to their efforts to revitalize the city.

The Great Raleigh Cleanup wanted to make sure that their liability waivers for volunteer cleanups were clear as could be, but not taking up so much time that volunteers were held back from conservancy efforts. That's where WaiverSign was able to help them create the right form template to let volunteers sign up with the greatest ease, while also giving them important facts to remember upon registration for any cleanup activity.

"WaiverSign allows an easy location to store signed waivers and collect important data like email address and emergency contacts."

With WaiverSign, Preston and his team no longer had to lug paper waivers to an event, risking losing those important documents or having them get damaged. With volunteer waivers that laid out the risks associated with these efforts, people were also made aware of the precautions they needed to take to avoid serious injury or illness while helping out. Sun protection, closed-toe shoes, and long pants are just some of the musts to wear to prevent any issues when trying to do better for your community.

The Solution: WaiverSign's Online Consent Forms

See how WaiverSign can make it easier for volunteers to sign waivers.

Clean up your signup process with WaiverSign

The Process: Turning Liability Waivers Into Online Documents

Switching from paper waivers to electronic documents might seem like a lot for any business to undertake. However, WaiverSign makes such activities so much easier. That's why touring companies that are subject to liability claims and other litigation turn to our platform with evidence of an incredible rate of success.

1. Send us your waiver.

WaiverSign helps out volunteer programs every step of the way. Send us your liability waiver, and we'll work with you to create an online template that meets your needs.

2. Volunteers sign online.

Once those paper waivers are transformed into an online document, you're ready to have participants begin the onboarding process. The Great Raleigh Cleanup sends its volunteers either a link or QR code that leads them to their designated WaiverSign URL. From there, they follow easy step-by-step instructions to allow for quick signing for adults or their children.

Volunteer events are no longer a hassle to make sure that papers are signed, as volunteers sign using an e-signature in advance of cleanup day, putting the focus on bettering the community and making sure that volunteers have all of the cleanup supplies they need to make this project happen.

3. Online Waivers are safely stored.

Come the day of the cleanup, you'll have confirmation of which volunteers can help out and who still needs to sign their waivers before putting on a pair of disposable gloves. Those online waivers are safely stored away for quick reference in the event of any incident. With WaiverSign, volunteer organizations are able to download waiver forms as needed, or just to quickly look up to make sure everything is in order.

The Results

As more volunteers join The Great Raleigh Cleanup, the registration process is now easier than ever. Group leaders are able to quickly confirm that waivers have been signed-in advance and that volunteers, or adults signing for minors, understood the assumption of risk as they get ready to take part in these beautification projects.

As Preston watched more people express interest in helping out, he had the peace of mind in knowing that liability waivers were signed well in advance. Plus, he no longer had to show up at each cleanup site with a mountain of paperwork for volunteers to glance over and sign. WaiverSign allowed him to focus on annual events like The Wake County Big Sweep and local coordination for National Cleanup Day.

Other Benefits Of Using WaiverSign

You've learned how WaiverSign saved a lot of time and physical storage for Ozark Bike Guides, affording more time to focus on bike tours and a better time for cyclists who sign up. For understanding what happens in the event of injury, this waiver makes riders aware of the terms of this document without having to rush to read it. However, there is even more to what WaiverSign has to offer.

1. WaiverSign helps you go green.

With a digital waiver, companies can save physical space and money for printing out liability waivers. Eliminating this cost for paper and ink can save businesses in various industries a lot in the long run. Furthermore, biking tour companies and everyone in between can tout their efforts in giving back to the environment.

2. Electronic signatures are more convenient.

More jurisdictions across the U.S. are accepting electronic signatures within a court of law. This digital signature holds up the same as a physical signature and can save you from costly legal fees in the event of litigation. These online consent forms are put into a template that is easy to read and follow, allowing volunteers to confirm their assumption of risk. Once seen, a judge will likely order a quick dismissal of a personal injury lawsuit or legal action on the grounds of negligence.

3. Make quick updates to waiver forms.

If you need to put any additional information onto your waiver or change things up for a particular cleanup event, WaiverSign saves you from having to print out a batch of new forms. You can make adjustments to your template in real-time, plus we'll work with you in case the new information doesn't suddenly appear on your online waiver, or if your format just needs a little sprucing up.

"The customer service is great. It feels like I can get someone immediately and don't have to call in or what days for a response."

The Great Raleigh Cleanup was able to save time on backend logistics with WaiverSign, and put more focus on their community beautification efforts. WaiverSign's electronic signature system provides an automated platform that manages its own storage and makes document retrieval that much easier. Both your volunteer program and those who sign up to help out on the cleanup day will greatly appreciate the ease of use and convenience of these digital waivers.

See how WaiverSign can make it easier for volunteers to sign waivers.

Get signed volunteer waivers easily with WaiverSign

WaiverSign Makes Liability Waivers Easier for Martial Arts

Sun, 21 Aug 2022 06:52:42 GMT

WaiverSign Makes Liability Waivers Easier for Martial Arts

Chad Allen

Whether it's seeking a new physical activity to stay in shape or garner self-defense skills, martial arts programs have become a global phenomenon. With regimented training, students of all ages are understanding the history and culture behind these tactics, as well as the refined physical movement that comes with each style of combat. Students are empowered by instructors to fine-tune these actions, working their way up to the highest levels of expertise.

However, the safety of all who take part in a martial arts program is pivotal to any studio or fitness center. Chinese Martial Arts and Health Centre Australia seeks to pass on these techniques, while also emphasizing a safe environment for everyone. However, there is a risk of injury associated with martial arts that students or the parents and legal guardians of minor students need to be aware of. That's where WaiverSign can help to clearly dictate those inherent risks, clearing the way for a safe climate to practice.

The Background: Bringing Martial Arts To Australia

Sherrilyn Walters and her team opened the Australian branch of the International Chinese Martial Arts and Health Centre when she first moved down under in 2006. The goal was to deliver a unique martial arts school to locals, offering training in Chang Hong kung fu, tai chi, self-defense, and combat-oriented fitness.

This unique system sought to introduce these forms to athletes of all ages to train and build up their regimen for the greatest success in these skills going forward. However, these activities do carry a risk of serious injury, raising concerns for students and instructors to make sure that everyone is as safe as can be during sessions. With more new members joining the CMAHC ranks, a solution was needed to get a waiver of liability filled out in advance of a student's first class.

Sherrilyn and her team were in need of a digital solution to have waivers and releases of liability signed by new members ahead of time. This would also spare both her staff and students from having to worry about a physical paper copy of an indemnity form or medical waiver form upon their first session. That's where WaiverSign came into the picture, delivering an online waiver unique to CMAHC's needs.

The Problem: The Hassle of Paper Waivers

Filling out paperwork is a pain in just about every environment, and the Chinese Martial Arts and Health Centre did not want to burden their new clients with paper waivers for martial arts . CMAHC knew they needed to make sure that new students or their parents/legal guardians understood the risks associated with signing up. That's why a digital solution made the most sense to get liability waivers in order before the first class.

CMAHC took the legal advice of their attorneys to draft up a release agreement that would spare them from any litigation related to gross negligence or personal injury. Now, the task became creating an easily accessible format that could be signed online, expediting the registration process. That's where WaiverSign sought to offer the perfect digital solution to their concerns.

Rather than having to deal with paper copies, Chinese Martial Arts and Health Centre Australia found that putting their martial arts liability waivers online made for easier enrollment. Whether it's an adult waiver or a release form for a minor, CMAHC wanted to afford releasees time to look over these important documents to truly understand the risk associated with martial arts classes and other fitness programs.

"We wanted an efficient online solution for new members to complete waivers and membership forms without the hassle of filling out paper forms."

With WaiverSign, Chinese Martial Arts and Health Centre Australia was able to layout precautions that come with their classes, alerting prospective students before they agree to take part in a class. Plus, a participant's signature can be obtained electronically. E-signatures have become the latest asset for a business in any realm. Signing a digital waiver now holds up in most jurisdictions in the event of a lawsuit, recognized as just as valid as a physical signature.

The Solution: WaiverSign's Online Waivers

Clean up your signup process with WaiverSign

See how WaiverSign can make it easier for studentst to sign waivers.

The Process: Turning Liability Waivers into Online Documents

Martial arts can bring out the best in a student, from regimented instruction in hand-to-hand combat to the inner sanctity that comes with arts like tai chi. WaiverSign approaches liability waivers for martial arts with responsibility for both business owner and client, creating clear templates that afford a simpler waiver that can be signed with the greatest of ease.

1. Send us your waiver.

WaiverSign works with you every step of the way to make sure that your paper waiver syncs up to your new online template. Just send us a copy of your release form and we'll get started from there.

2. Students sign online.

WaiverSign doesn't pull any punches when it comes to making sure the best interest of an organization is protected. Once a waiver form meets your standards, you can begin the digital onboarding process for your students. Chinese Martial Arts and Health Centre Australia sends a link off to their prospective students to read over the release of liability and membership forms in advance of their first class.

In addition to sending out a designated URL to potential students, other martial arts studios have found that a QR code is an easy way to have their waiver forms accessed online. It's all in the name of making sure that students understand risk and sole responsibility when taking part in martial arts activities.

3. Online Waivers are safely stored.

Teaching self-defense is just some of what Chinese Martial Arts and Health Centre Australia has sought to encourage. However, they needed their own defense to avoid any potential lawsuits. WaiverSign's online waiver template not only saves time in getting important documents out to students but also provides a convenient database for references for all organizations. You'll be able to download your contacts' consent forms as needed, having easily accessible proof that the risk of injury was understood by a client.

The Results

Switching to electronic waivers, Chinese Martial Arts and Health Centre Australia was able to expedite their registration process. New students, parents, and legal guardians had enough time to look over these waivers before providing their electronic, or e-signature, and giving the green light for students to meet with instructors for scheduled sessions to build physical and mental health. This effectively added as a warmup for CMAHC, as they also no longer had to worry about where these waiver forms were located. With safe online storage, Sherrilyn and her staffers could quickly lookup any important documents if needed to make sure that a student was cleared legally and medically to take to the mat.

Clean up your signup process with WaiverSign

See how WaiverSign can make it easier for studentst to sign waivers.

Other Benefits of Using WaiverSign

1. E-signatures are just easier.

With electronic signatures being recognized by most jurisdictions, it just makes more sense than ever for businesses of all backgrounds to move their waivers online. These e-signatures hold up in a court of law, often leading to the dismissal of a lawsuit. With a clear template that dictates the facts, a release of liability signed by a student confirms the assumption of risk, and closes the case there.

2. It's easier to update forms.

Rather than having to print out a new liability waiver with each new crop of students, a link or QR code is sent out for students or adults to sign for minors. You also don't have to worry about printing out new waivers to make changes to any legal restrictions or to adapt to a specific activity. All of your edits can be made online, and the template can be adjusted to suit the needs of your studio.

3. It's a time and money saver.

Wrangling up paperwork with physical signatures can wear thin for just about anybody, especially when you want to focus on instruction in your martial arts studio. One of the greatest assets of WaiverSign is no longer having to send your staffers chasing people down to sign on the dotted line. With access to a URL and an online format, a good waiver can provide clarity, but also some assurance on the back-end.

"It is a great platform that is reliable and easy to use."

Martial arts studios no longer have to print out a pile of paperwork for every class and instructor, leading to damaged forms or waivers going missing. That could lead to significant headaches in litigation down the line. WaiverSign saved Chinese Martial Arts and Health Centre Australia time in getting those forms filled out, and in making adaptations as needed for legal reasons. Plus, you'll save on paper and ink with each change. It's time to see what WaiverSign can do for your studio today.

Liability Waivers For Bike Tours & Lessons | WaiverSign

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 06:49:15 GMT

WaiverSign Makes Liability Waivers Easier for Bike Tour Operators

Chad Allen

A scenic bike tour is a fun activity for all ages to enjoy. From soaking in the natural wonders of a national park to traveling around a bustling city, a bicycle is a great way for tourists to truly take in what an area has to offer. For tour operators, it's important to be able to book reservations with ease but also make sure that guests are able to safely take part in a ride with the assumption of risk with certain events.

The more clients that book tours, the greater importance there is for making a seamless experience for riders from all over. A vital onboarding process is key, and that's why Ozark Bike Guides relies on WaiverSign to streamline client waiver forms and get riders back on the bike and exploring their surroundings.

The Background: A Ride Around Bentonville

We love stories about people who want to show off their hometown pride and bring that love into their business. Alex Martens founded Ozark Bike Guides back in January 2020 to share his love for his hometown of Bentonville, Arkansas, a community that has become a tourist destination in recent years for mountain bikers from all over. Alex also sought to help others have positive new experiences aboard their bicycles, providing cyclists with skills and lessons to enhance their riding journeys.

Alex's company has now become a desired bike tour service, advertised by the state's tourism board to show off the natural wonders of Northwest Arkansas while also making sure riders know how to anticipate hurdles when riding. With miles of world-class trails, Alex wanted his clientele to get the most out of their journeys but know the inherent risks of the ride. That's why he looked to WaiverSign for a helping hand.

The Problem: Mounting Waivers and Paperwork

With private mountain, gravel, and road bike tours taking up the day, Alex and his Ozark Bike Guides crew found that the number of liability waivers and other important documents were stacking up on top of them. Making sure that a bike tour liability waiver was filled out in advance of the ride was hassle enough, but making sure that it was safely stored was just another problem in and of itself.

Knowing that riders were eager to get on the trail, Alex found that tour guides were under pressure to get a waiver of liability signed quickly, not giving customers enough time to read through the documents. There was grave importance of having cyclists understand the risk of serious injury, so that's why Ozark Bike Guides searched for a more straightforward option that would make their liability waivers more easily accessible while also sparing the need for a lot of storage space to hold those papers.

Ozark Bike Guides wanted to find a program that would give each cyclist the time to read over their waiver and understand the full responsibility they assumed by taking part in the tour. They also wanted to avoid cutting into the enjoyment of a bike tour by having people sit and sign papers. That's where WaiverSign allowed for easier digital interaction, obtaining electronic signatures so riders could put the pedal to the metal.

"Keeping track of paper forms was difficult and time-consuming, especially at the start of my tourism, and I didn’t have a good way of filing them."

With waivers designed for solo bicyclists or groups, Ozark Bike Guides was able to adapt their liability waiver to a digital format to accommodate any group. By working with WaiverSign to implement these forms online, Ozark also capitalized on a digital platform that could hang on to all signed documents for quick reference in the event of an emergency situation or a potential personal injury lawsuit.

The Solution: WaiverSign's Online Platform

Increase your cadence with WaiverSign

See how WaiverSign can boost both your bike tour business and customer experience forward!

Get on trail quickly with WaiverSign

The Process: Putting Liability Waivers Online for Easy Access

1. Send us your release of liability form.

One of the greatest assets of WaiverSign is that you're not alone in the integration process. Simply send a copy of the liability waiver for bike tours , and we'll transform that waiver into a digital format to present the risk of injury that comes with a particular tour.

2. Your clients sign online.

Once we convert the waiver to a digital version, you're ready to begin the onboarding process for cyclists who book a tour or are part of parties taking part in a tour. A link is sent out connecting riders to the online waiver form for review and their electronic signatures. A QR code will also be made available for customers to scan and connect to the documents that they need to sign. Ozark Bike Guides makes sure that waivers are signed in advance of the scheduled activities so as not to deduct any time from the journeys.

3. Liability forms are safely stored.

As mentioned earlier, Alex and his crew at Ozark Bike Guides just didn't have the physical space for all of the waivers that applicants signed before taking part in their mountain biking or bicycling tours. One of the best things about putting these forms online is that an electronic signature is accepted to the fullest extent of the law in many jurisdictions of the United States. WaiverSign also offers safe storage of documents, avoiding lost or destroyed waivers and affording a quick lookup option to find the necessary waiver in the event of potential legal action.

The Results

Switching to online liability waiver forms helped Ozark Bike Guides avoid having to stack papers up and risking the loss of important documents that could be costly. This stopped the need for saving a portion of the waiver agreement in the physical realm, with WaiverSign able to keep documents securely stored in an online platform for quick reference when needed to show that cyclists acknowledged their responsibilities and were aware of their legal rights. The best part for Alex and his guides is that they no longer have to take up time before each tour to make sure that waivers are signed, showing that cyclists understand the risk of serious injury and potential hurdles brought on by inherent dangers in wilderness and weather conditions. This also ensures that riders are in proper physical condition and prepared to take on a private tour with all appropriate safety measures, including bicycle helmets. WaiverSign allows Ozark Bike Guides to have more time to show off scenic Bentonville and other wonders of Northwest Arkansas.

Other Benefits of Using WaiverSign

1. Going paperless is better for the planet.

2. WaiverSign provides clarity regarding cancellation policies.

When it comes to any event-based business, especially for outdoor activities, there needs to be clarity for participants about the steps to take in the event of weather extremes. While more severe weather may cancel a cycling tour, bicyclists also need to be aware of any additional hurdles that may result from a previous day's weather. For example, there could be a delayed start for a tour or the potential for damages on a roadway that could be an issue for riders throughout the day.

3. Electronic signatures are more convenient.

WaiverSign provides businesses and their clients with not only peace of mind but an easier way to get through liability waivers well in advance of a planned event where there is a risk of injury. Taking the time to read a waiver allows for clarity for signers and third parties to understand the unanticipated risks that organizers of the event have a responsibility to detail.

"All my clients sign a digital waiver before the day of their tour or lesson, so we don’t waste any time doing paperwork. I also love that we both can get a copy and it’s easy for me to access my signed waivers at any time."

One of the positives that Ozark Bike Guides has discovered is the ease of signing documents ahead of time and having electronic signatures that qualify as an agreement in many jurisdictions across the United States. Cyclists can have the greatest ease when signing these waivers and can be better focused on enjoying the scenery of a bicycling journey.

Liability Waivers for Church Activities

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 06:37:26 GMT

WaiverSign Makes Liability Waivers Easier for Church Activities

Chad Allen

Congregants of a church are bonded together by their faith in a higher power, but that bond is further built by activities that unite for a greater ministry in worship. Networking with neighbors not only allows for deeper explorations of faith but creating lifelong relationships with people you may not otherwise cross paths with. Mission trips, weekend activities, and excursions rooted in religion are just some of the ways to build these bridges.

However, some of these activities may have an element of risk involved. The safety of parishioners in regard to these potential risks is important, and it's also important for religious organizations to protect their interests from any legal action. A liability waiver is an easy way to provide coverage to avoid lengthy and expensive litigation, and WaiverSign seeks to simplify the access of these release forms by getting them placed into a perfect online template.

The Background: On A Mission For The Community

Serve Noblesville began 10 years ago as a way for youth pastors and friends to provide a local mission and ministry opportunity under one motto: "Connecting Compassionate Neighbors." Those efforts to unite in faith-based activity led to the founding of the nonprofit Serve Village, creating a model for other communities to bring joy, excitement, and pride to their neighbors.

Serve Noblesville has branched off into three programs to connect the community. Every summer, Serve Week connects neighbors, businesses, churches, and nonprofits for beautification projects throughout the city. These four days are also a fundraising effort for local families. There's also FUN Fest: Celebrating Food, Unity, and Neighbors. This community party welcomes everyone to highlight what makes Noblesville a suitable and lovely place to live. And finally, there's Come Together Weekend, coinciding with Memorial Day to kick off charity events through the summer.

Bonding communities through church events, garage sales, and physical activities have made Serve Noblesville a force for the city. However, the safety and well-being of volunteers and visitors are paramount, leading to a need for a liability release to make sure patrons understand some of the risks associated with these engagements. That's where WaiverSign stepped in to help those looking to unite their communities for the greater good.

The Problem: The Need For Simple Waiver Signing

With so many different activities to engage the community, it was important for Serve Noblesville to have liability waivers for church activities that were simple and hassle-free. With events that sometimes mobilize as many as 1,000 volunteers, Serve Noblesville didn't have time to have everyone fill out paper waivers but needed to make sure those consent forms were signed to protect the vested interest of the nonprofit as a whole.

That's why Serve Noblesville wanted to convert its waiver into a digital format that could be filled out whenever and wherever for any volunteer registration. Plus, a digital waiver solution would eliminate issues with keeping track of all of this paperwork. Serve Noblesville thus turned to WaiverSign to make sure that volunteers understand the risk of liability associated with certain activities through these enforceable contracts.

Serve Noblesville knew they needed a smarter solution to allow volunteers ample opportunity to understand some of the risks associated with activities. That's why WaiverSign stood out in the marketplace to meet their unique needs. WaiverSign allowed them to create waivers for church activities that made volunteers aware of any potential injury that could result from these events while also keeping signed waivers in order in case of any issues with access.

"It's easy to use for volunteers and we don't have to keep a paper trail that was always difficult and time-consuming to organize and then keep on file afterward."

With organizations embracing the digital transformation, WaiverSign has become a great tool for nonprofits, corporations, and everyone in between to make the crossover to an online platform. This is even more beneficial now that more and more jurisdictions across the United States are recognizing electronic signatures on digital waivers as valid under applicable law.

The Solution: WaiverSign's Online Forms

The Process: Receiving Waivers Online

Switching from hard copies to online church activity liability waivers may seem like a lot to handle, but WaiverSign makes sure that a template is designed to make things as seamless as possible for nonprofits. If an organization is subject to any liability claims, WaiverSign walks users through the digital formatting every step of the way to protect their interests.

1. Send us your liability waiver.

One of the greatest benefits of WaiverSign is having a helping hand to make your digital waiver perfect. Simply send us a copy of your waiver, and we'll get started on the legal document you desire.

2. Your clients provide an electronic signature.

Once we convert your paper document into an online liability waiver, you're ready to have volunteers begin the digital onboarding process. Serve Noblesville has been able to send out a link to the documents that require signatures. These links can also direct signers to your website and online registration software, making it easier to acquire these necessary waivers. Some organizations have also found success in creating a QR code to direct people to an online liability waiver. This also provides clarity for open-ended questions, especially concerns about inclement weather, illness, serious injury, and other events that most waivers end up losing in the fine print of the document.

3. Online waiver forms are safely stored.

One of the major problems that Serve Noblesville sought to overcome was getting signatures quickly without important documents getting lost in a mountain of paperwork. No longer having to worry about physical documents for contact information and necessary signatures eliminated that fear. With WaiverSign, everything from a volunteer consent form to a unique release of liability form can be transformed into a digital format that is user-friendly and safely stored within a safe and secure online platform for quick reference.

The Results

Switching to digital liability waivers made things easier for Serve Noblesville and its volunteers . Church leaders and related ministries have been able to keep more focus on uniting participants to better the community. With a digital hold-harmless agreement, volunteers are more informed about the risks associated with an activity, and Serve Noblesville is able to directly point to their website and registration software for the liability release form.

Not only did Serve Noblesville save time in the event registration process, but the switch to digital waivers helped them eliminate the hurdles that are associated with making larger events come together for the community at large. WaiverSign became especially helpful as a participant signs from afar. This digital formatting allowed Serve Noblesville to still carry out its charitable efforts without concern over legal risks during times with coronavirus-related restrictions.

Other Benefits Of Using WaiverSign

You've read how WaiverSign made things easier for Serve Noblesville and its charitable efforts throughout the city. However, you're probably wondering how this can help your own organization. WaiverSign is an incredibly versatile platform that provides clarity and easier virtual systems for everyone from volunteers to parents or legal guardians who need to sign for minors to enjoy fundraisers, field trips, and more.

1. Electronic signatures are easier.

Electronic signatures, or e-signatures, stand up in a court of law in the event of a personal injury lawsuit or other litigation, saving people from costly lawsuits. These online waiver forms are put into a template that is clearly understandable and, if presented in a court of law, will more than likely result in a judge tossing the case. Plus, there's just more versatility with online signatures than running around chasing clients and volunteers with a paper and pen.

2. Digital waivers are money savers.

For Serve Noblesville, having easy access to electronic waivers was important to spare the problems associated with paperwork. They no longer had to rely on physical storage for any type of contract or consent form, sparing space in the church office for each event they sought to create for the betterment of the city. Cutting out paper documents also saved funds for paper, ink, and other supplies just to make sure that officials were protected from litigation with applicants and volunteers.

3. It's an efficient way to update forms.

Ahead of any scheduled activity, these waiver forms can be completed and agreed to, putting more focus on the bonding activities. Rather than having to continuously print out new paperwork for each youth ministry event or fundraiser, organizations can instead make easy changes on the WaiverSign platform to suit a particular activity. These forms can be adjusted based on language and changes to legal regulations or even to shift a liability waiver to add additional stipulations that may not be needed for other activities.

"If you need an easy tool to collect waivers and permission at a fairly reasonable price, WaiverSign should certainly be considered."

The team at Serve Noblesville knew that WaiverSign could adapt release forms with their e-signature system, automating for secure storage and easy document retrieval. Both your organization and its clients will greatly appreciate the ease of use and the convenience of a digital reference point for liability waivers.

Liability Waivers for Animal Encounters

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 06:30:03 GMT

WaiverSign Makes Paperwork Easier for Animal Encounters

Brandon Lake

Animal lovers enjoy the ability to get close to creatures. It's a unique opportunity to provide a gentle touch to animals who could use a little kindness. However, there are safety measures that need to be in place to make sure both people and animals are protected. That's why it's important for those who operate these animal encounters, be they aquariums, zoos, or private companies, to have waivers in place for any legal protections.

Being able to protect the interest of the visitor is vital to protect them and these pets. Karma Kat Cafe is seeking to give humans a little interaction with their furry feline friends, connecting cats with future owners, while providing a therapeutic outlet for pet lovers. That's where WaiverSign has helped to clear the way for caretakers and future caretakers to enjoy their time at the cafe without fear of injury to visitors or the cats that roam the grounds.

The Background: Comfort For Cats And Cat Lovers

Rescue animals deserve a loving home, and that's what drove Mystie Beckwith to create the Karma Cat Cafe. Opened in Mount Pleasant, Michigan three years ago, Karma Cat Cafe is a unique concept where rescue cats live communally until they find their "furever homes". Mystie's experience in the pet industry and passion for helping homeless cats has made KKC a safe haven for felines in need of a loving home. The business concept evolved into a state-licensed protection shelter and 24/7 rescue effort for cats of all ages.

Visitors to KKC will set a reservation in advance, paying a small fee to hang out with the adoptable cats. This helps Karma Kat Cafe to offset the costs of vet bills, supplies, and any other special needs for these adorable creatures. KKC has found their rescue efforts are also rescuing the people that come to the cafe. The visits are therapeutic for both these pets and customers in their safe, inclusive cat lounge. KKC has expanded to hosting fun events like Yoga With Cats and Painting with Cats for more unique interactions with these felines.

Every visitor to Karma Kat Cafe must sign a liability waiver regarding the risks of entering a space with these furry felines. However, Mystie and her team found that using paper waiver forms was becoming too much of a time constraint. That's why she turned to WaiverSign to make things easier for her staff members and her visitors to focus more on rescue and adoption efforts.

The Problem: Slowing Down Operations

With so many different events for their rescue cats, Karma Kat Cafe knew they needed a smarter solution for their animal encounter liability waivers . Hard copies of their waiver of liability were delaying how soon visitors could interact with the cats, plus storage and access to this information was just making for more of a headache for KKC's rescue efforts.

These waivers were a must for KKC to avoid any legal issues that could result from these animal experiences, as cats can startle easily and react to visitors with a scratch or a swipe of fright. Acting as a boarding facility and rescue shelter, there's a nature of caring that needs to be understood, but KKC wanted to make sure that visitors understood the full responsibility that came with a visit to these live animals.

Karma Kat Cafe wanted to make sure their visitors could truly enjoy themselves upon arrival, and not have to worry about combing through a waiver before enjoying their experience with their furry feline friends . That's where online liability forms from WaiverSign came in handy to not only clear adults to enter, but also give parents the ability to sign on behalf of their teens to take part in KKC's unique environment for enrichment.

"The biggest benefits are efficiency, time-saving, and easy access to information."

With more companies embracing online operations, WaiverSign plays an important role for rescue efforts like Karma Kat Cafe to present their hold harmless agreement. This is even more beneficial now that more and more jurisdictions across the United States are recognizing electronic signatures on digital waivers as valid to the fullest extent of the law.

The Solution: WaiverSign's Online Forms

The Process: Receiving Waivers Online

Switching from hard copies to liability waivers for animal encounters may seem overwhelming, but WaiverSign makes sure that a template is designed to make things as easy as can be for organizations of any size. If your organization is subject to claims related to physical injury or property damage, you need waiver protection. WaiverSign walks you through creating the form every step of the way so volunteers and visitors understand their sole responsibility in this environment.

1. Send us your liability waiver.

One of the greatest benefits of WaiverSign is that you're never alone with this interactive program. Simply send us a copy of your release of liability and we'll create a digital format fulfilling your needs.

2. Your clients sign online.

Once we convert your paper document to an online waiver form, you're ready to have clients and volunteers begin the digital onboarding process. Karma Kat Cafe has been able to send out a link to their documents that require signatures. This has been a timesaver for customers, avoiding a crunch to have to sign paper documents at the time of booking.

Some organizations have found success in creating a QR code to direct people to these online liability forms. This gives customers and volunteers time to give a deeper look into a liability waiver, understanding the risk assumed when entering a rescue shelter with 40+ cats. Plus, WaiverSign makes sure your important information doesn't get lost in the fine print.

3. Online forms are safely stored.

One issue that Karma Kat Cafe sought to eliminate was the frantic running around for paper copies of their animal encounter waivers. No longer having to worry about physical documents for necessary signatures eliminated the fear of losing those important forms. With WaiverSign, everything from reservations to forms waiving negligence be transformed into a digital format that is user-friendly, plus safely stored within its platform for quick access to those documents when you need them.

The Results

Switching to electronic waivers has been incredibly helpful for Karma Kat Cafe to put their focus on the private experience of their visitors, and the safety of everyone involved, especially their feline friends. Each visitor or volunteer signs the electronic waiver before entering the cat lounge, giving them plenty of time to understand the rules around these rescue animals. This includes getting parents to sign liability waiver forms for their teens in advance of their volunteering at KKC.

Plus, animal care staff at KKC no longer had to worry about where to store the waivers for animal encounters . This allows staffers and volunteers to focus on their important role in the safety of the animals and the accommodation of these cats and guests. With an online platform safely storing these waivers, Karma Kat Cafe felt more at ease creating unique events with their amazing animals including Cat Bingo and Reading with Cats.

Other Benefits Of Using WaiverSign

You've read how WaiverSign made things more efficient for Karma Kat Cafe and their one-of-a-kind experience for potential pet owners and helping their cats find "furever homes". However, you may be wondering how it can help your zoo, aquarium, or any other animal encounter. WaiverSign is a versatile platform that provides clarity and easier virtual systems for everyone from a visitor to a parent or legal guardian who needs to sign for a volunteer who is younger than 18 years of age.

1. E-signatures are just more convenient.

With electronic, or e-signatures, becoming the norm in the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations are turning to a digital format for any important documents. These signatures stand up in a court of law in the event of a personal injury lawsuit or other litigation, saving people from costly lawsuits. These forms are put into a template that is clearly understandable and will often lead to a quick dismissal by a judge as the signature confirms the assumption of risk.

2. WaiverSign helps you cut expenses.

For the Karma Kat Cafe, eliminating paper was a big help, making more room in their animal habitat for their furry friends and their visitors. Cutting the need for physical storage provided peace of mind for KKC to deal with their accessibility needs, able to quickly pull up a signed liability waiver in the event of a negligence claim. In addition to saving on physical storage, KKC also cut costs on paper and ink for every new batch of release forms.

3. It's far easier to update waiver forms.

Ahead of a reservation time or scheduled event, these forms are completed and agreed to for program admission and volunteering in no time at all. Rather than having to print out documents within hours' notice, the WaiverSign platform is able to accommodate participants for a particular activity. This allows for quick adjustments to liability waiver forms, including changes to legal regulations, or additional stipulations based on an event or special options.

"Definitely worth the affordable fee and it’s a very valuable service. Easy to navigate and great customer service."

WaiverSign's electronic signature system provides an automated platform that manages its own storage and makes document retrieval that much easier. Both your organization and all parties involved in it will appreciate this interactive program, especially visitors who may be looking for a reservation confirmation amongst limited spots for these exclusive encounters.

WaiverSign Makes Liability Waiver Forms Simpler for Trainers

Tue, 10 May 2022 06:25:13 GMT

WaiverSign Makes Liability Waiver Forms Simpler for Trainers

Chad Allen

Personal trainers rely on a steady influx of clients for their businesses to prosper. While attracting new customers is integral, and even exciting, it presents challenges for fitness business owners who'd rather focus on training than handling onboarding and personal trainer waivers. The more clients they attract, the more diligent they have to be about ensuring that all their information is correct and every client has signed a liability waiver before their first workout.

Whether you're a personal trainer or gym owner, there's a lot on the line every time you take on a new customer, so it's vital to have a system in place to make the new client onboarding process easier and quicker. That's why Silicon Valley Athletics relies on WaiverSign to streamline client waivers, enabling their fitness professionals and clients to get to the training process quicker.

The Background: A Personal Trainer With A Purpose

We love stories about people using circumstances that could have destroyed them to catapult themselves into greatness. Such is the case for personal trainer Joey Sparacino. The second of eight children, Joey was kidnapped by his mother at a tender age. Fortunately, the state eventually found him and brought him back home to his father. However, the aftershock of that kind of trauma doesn't dissipate overnight.

During his childhood, Joey struggled with his weight and self-esteem. As is the case for many troubled youths, sports turned out to be his saving grace. Participating in sports helped him to get into shape, improve his self-confidence, and make friends. Not to mention, it gave Joey a purpose that he still lives for today, which is helping others get fit and feel great about themselves, too.

Joey started his personal training business to help others experience a story of triumph similar to his own, and he's been at it for 15 years. He began using WaiverSign as a way to effectively communicate his commitment to customers and allow him to focus on what he loves doing most, which is helping individual clients meet their fitness goals.

The problem for Joey, like for many fitness professionals and gym owners, was managing the mounting waivers and other paperwork necessary to protect his customers and business. Silicon Valley Athletics used to use paper waivers for their release of liability forms, but they had a problem storing their waivers when their clientele grew. When you have problems with your filing system, it makes everything more difficult, from tracking customer information and meal plans to managing personal training liability waiver forms .

Not only was working with paper making it hard for Joey and his team to manage their growing backlog of paper waivers, but they also kept running out of paper! Every time you turn a customer away from a personal training session because you don't have the proper release form, you risk losing that customer forever.

Read some common questions asked by gym owners >>

The Problem: Mounting Liability Waivers Became Difficult To Track

The Solution: WaiverSign's Online Forms

The Process: Receiving Consent Forms And New-Client Forms Online

Switching from paper waivers to electronic ones might seem like a painstaking process, but it's much simpler than you think with WaiverSign. That's why companies subject to liability claims switch to our platform at such a high rate and love the results.

1. SEND US YOUR LIABILITY WAIVER OR CONSENT FORM.

One of the great things about WaiverSign is that you're not alone in the integration process. Simply send us a copy of your waiver form, and we'll convert it into digital format for you.

2. YOUR CLIENTS SIGN ONLINE.

Once we convert your consent form into a digital version, you're ready to begin the digital onboarding process with your clients. You merely provide them with a link on your website or emails or have them scan a QR code in person, and they'll be redirected to the WaiverSign platform where they can give their e-signature for the exercise waiver. You can also take the Silicon Valley Athletics approach and have clients give their e-signature on your company's tablet.

3. LIABILITY RELEASE FORMS ARE STORED AND SECURE.

As we mentioned earlier, one of the major problems for Silicon Valley Athletics was the proper storage of their consent forms. One of the best things about going digital is you no longer have to worry about storing physical documents that are prone to get lost or destroyed. With WaiverSign, anytime a client signs an exercise waiver, the document is immediately stored in our system and available for retrieval.

The Results: Saving Time, Money, And Energy With Online Waivers

Switching to electronic waivers helped Silicon Valley save a lot of money. Joey and his team were having problems storing and managing their paper waivers. Furthermore, they were always running out of paper, and if you've ever run a paper-based business, you know that the costs of paper and ink add up over time. However, WaiverSign is the gift that keeps on giving. Personal trainers like Joey can create electronic waivers for unlimited clients, significantly cutting costs.

Not only did Silicon Valley save money by relying on WaiverSign for their personal training waivers, but they also saved a lot of time and energy. It's much easier to touch a screen and get to your waivers than dig through drawers and file cabinets looking for the right papers and hoping they're there. Whether it's a physical activity readiness questionnaire or a liability release form for your fitness center, WaiverSign can make managing your customer information and waiver forms much simpler.

Try WaiverSign Free >>

Ready To Upgrade Your Waiver And On-Boarding Process For Your Gym?

You've read how WaiverSign helped Joey and his team to become more efficient and save money, but you're reading this case study because you're wondering how we can help improve your fitness business. The good news is that WaiverSign is a versatile platform with plenty to offer fitness professionals and others in professions that put them at high risk of legal liability for others' safety.

1. GOING PAPERLESS IS GREAT FOR THE PLANET.

This planet is all we have, and many businesses have gone paperless in their efforts to reduce their carbon footprints. Using WaiverSign to manage your consent forms will considerably reduce your fitness center's paper waste. Furthermore, you'll be able to boast to potential clients that your company is committed to being part of the solution when it comes to protecting our planet.

2. CREATE MORE SPACE IN YOUR FITNESS CENTER.

One thing about paper is it tends to accumulate quickly, requiring more and more storage space with each individual client. One of the many ways switching to WaiverSign can help your business is by enabling you to clear up some space in your facilities. After all, no paper means no filing cabinets.

3. ELECTRONIC SIGNATURES ARE CONVENIENT FOR YOU AND YOUR CLIENTS.

Possibly the best thing about WaverSign is the level of simplicity it provides businesses and their clients and customers. Many companies and organizations allow their patrons to fill out online documents but require them to print, sign, scan, and then fax, or email them. Electronic signatures are convenient and significantly improve the client experience by enabling them to complete the entire consent form online.

As you can see, there are a number of ways WaiverSign can make life easier for you and your team while also enhancing the intake process for your new clients. Joey and his team saw significant benefits from implementing our e-signature platform, and one of the main ones is he was able to focus more on his daily workouts and less on managing a growing backlog of waiver forms.

"WaiverSign has allowed me to clearly communicate our policies so I can focus on what I love to do and help others."

Learn more about Gym Liability Waivers >>

The team at Silicon Valley Athletics gets to spend more time on personal training and less time and energy digging through files. Not to mention all the money they're saving on paper and ink. WaiverSign's electronic signature system provides an automated system that manages its own storage and makes document retrieval quick and easy. Both your company and its clients will love the simplicity and convenience of WaiverSign.

Silicon Valley Athletics' problem isn't unique. In fact, the main reason for many business owners switching from paper to electronic communications and files is that they're much more reliable and accessible. Joey Sparacino and his team began using WaiverSign to effectively communicate with clients about their policies, educate them about the risks of injury, and of course, enable online clients to use an e-signature to complete online consent forms.

"When I hand our iPad to the client it looks much more professional than a paper waiver."

With businesses all over the world becoming more digital every day, WaiverSign is a great tool for companies trying to go digital. When you hand someone an iPad and tell them to read and scroll to the bottom to provide their e-signature , it gives your business an air of professionalism.

Read some common questions asked by gym owners >>

Esthetician Consent Form Gets a Makeover

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 06:19:08 GMT

Esthetician Consent Form Gets a Makeover

Stephen Porritt

Client intake and consent forms are a part of many businesses’ operations, but most people wouldn’t say it’s their favorite part of running a business. Keeping copies of intake and consent forms on hand, filing and storing them, and ensuring that every client has signed one can add up to quite a management headache.

Luckily, there is an easy way to give your consent forms a makeover.

Whether you’re looking for digital waiver solutions or esthetician services, it’s important to find someone who specializes in their field. Erin and her team at The Waxing Room are experts at their craft, and they rely on WaiverSign’s online tools to make the waiver process as smooth and painless as can be.

The Background: An Experienced Esthetician Focused On Continual Improvement

While many spas offer waxing, not all specialize in it. Unfortunately, this can lead to "sticky situations" that often leave customers with a poor—or even painful—waxing experience. That's why it is essential to seek a Waxologist (an Esthetician who specializes in waxing) when looking for hair removal.

Waxologists work on every area of the body, using hot or cold wax to remove the hair follicle from desired areas. It’s a specialized skill that takes practice and precision, and not every esthetician who offers the service can claim the title.

That’s where Erin comes in. Erin Temple has been in the beauty industry for over 20 years and has specialized in hair removal since 2011. She has worked for some of the best salons in the business, including the famous New York City waxing company Completely Bare (which was featured on Bravo's Real Housewives of NYC).

After her time in New York, Erin decided to relocate and open her own waxing salon called The Waxing Room in Orange County in 2015. Her practiced skill, combined with her personality and soothing bedside manner, make for a quality waxing experience like no other. She aims for perfection every time and is thorough and detailed.

And clients noticed. Right from the start of The Waxing Room, business was booming: in the first five years, Erin served over 7,000 clients. Her clientele grew quickly, and so did the paperwork.

The Problem: Paper Consent Forms & Client Intake Forms

Rapid growth has its drawbacks; serving that many clients so quickly left Erin with a lot of intake forms and client waivers to sort through and store. This meant keeping track of who had and had not yet signed their forms, finding space to store the signed waivers, and always having fresh copies on hand. Not to mention having to sift through stacks of paperwork to find a client’s waiver later if something came up. What a pain!

The Solution: WaiverSign's Online Forms

Enter WaiverSign. With simple online waivers and forms, WaiverSign offers an easy, customizable solution to the hassle of paper copies of client intake forms. You can easily convert your existing waiver into a digital form to let your clients sign anytime, anywhere.

What’s more, our simple and affordable pricing makes it easy to get started. No more paper copies, no more storage worries, and no more waiting on clients to fill out forms once they arrive. This allows The Waxing Room’s staff and clients alike to enjoy a more relaxed environment in the salon. Add your new waiver link to your website, confirmation emails, or check-in kiosk, and your clients can easily and securely sign online before their appointment.

The Process: Getting Waxing Consent Forms And Intake Forms Online

Using WaiverSign’s online waiver service to create and administer your company’s waxing & esthetician consent form is as easy as 1-2-3.

Send us your waiver
Our WaiverSign team will convert your current waiver to a customizable digital version.
Your clients sign online
Add your new waiver link to your website, confirmation emails, or check-in kiosk, and your clients can easily and securely sign online before their appointment.
Signed waivers are securely stored in the cloud

Your signed documents are securely stored with WaiverSign and retrievable in seconds.

The Results: Digital Esthetician Consent Form & Intake Form

Now Erin can simply attach her WaiverSign link to a customer's outgoing confirmation message, either through text or email. This way, clients can fill out the form before arrival, which makes the whole process, well, smooth.

By getting their information beforehand, Erin and her team are able to know if they can service a client or not before they arrive, which saves everyone time. And, if someone forgets to fill out the waiver form before arriving for an appointment, they can use their phone to scan the WaiverSign QR code posted at the check-in counter, and fill one out right from their mobile device. Quick, simple, and user-friendly.

Storage concerns are eliminated with WaiverSign, too. All signed client waivers are simply and securely stored in the cloud, and painlessly retrievable with just a few clicks. No more storing boxes upon boxes of forms, and sorting through hundreds of paper waivers to find the one you’re looking for.

Do You Need An Esthetician Consent Form For Waxing, Facials, Or Other Beauty Treatments?

It is critical to get a consent form (also called a liability waiver or release) from your clients. One reason is to protect your company and your employees from liability. The form is called a “release” because customers who sign it are releasing your company from liability for injury and damage they may encounter during the covered service.

A well-drafted release of liability form may also help you demonstrate that your customer knew about and assumed the risks inherent in the service. This offers your company another layer of protection against liability: If you are ever sued (or threatened with a suit) by a customer who signed a liability waiver, you can use the waiver to assert that the customer has entered into a contract with you not to hold you liable for any claimed negligence.

Can I Present My Intake Form And Consent Form At The Same Time?

WaiverSign can actually present all the questions you need to ask before your clients’ treatments and then serve up the consent form to be signed - all prior to arrival, making the check-in proces easy and giving you everything you need up front to provide the best service possible. Your clients have come to expect their waxing experience to be smooth, and that should include the necessary paperwork. Presenting your waxing consent waiver electronically will help you provide a pain-free experience by making intake forms:

Your clients have come to expect their waxing experience to be smooth, and that should include the necessary paperwork. Presenting your waxing consent waiver electronically will help you provide a pain-free experience by making intake forms:

Why Use WaiverSign For Your Esthetician Consent And Release Form?

Easier for you and your customers
Contactless and paperless
Less expensive than printing and storing physical copies
Simple to retrieve

Another reason to use WaiverSign for your esthetician consent form or waiver is the ability to customize your digital forms. Looks are important, especially in the esthetician business. Make the look of your waiver signing process personalized to your business with custom branding in WaiverSign. You can customize the language of your waxing consent waiver to include any inherent risks or other essential information, and you can customize the sections within your document.

Need to make more than waivers digital? WaiverSign can help you gather digital signatures on just about any type of release form that you need to have signed repeatedly. Your clients will love how easy it is, and you’ll love getting organized and saving time.

Best Waiver Software for a Small Training Gym

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 06:14:50 GMT

Best Waiver Software for a Small Training Gym

Jeremy Jensen

WaiverSign offers tremendous perks and convenient waiver options to all sorts of businesses and organizations around the country. Both major operations and small businesses can enjoy gym liability waiver forms and tracking information right at their fingertips, including on mobile devices. See how this technology and our unique offerings can help you succeed with your operation when you take a look at the benefits we brought to BRelentless Training and Sports Performance , a small training gym in Morton, Illinois.

Background: A Small Training Gym Making A Big Difference

BRelentless is a small training gym that works with athletes of all ages from middle schoolers to professional adults. They assist student-athletes, local teams, and adults who are trying to get on track with their fitness. This operation is unique because the participants in these classes or training programs sign up online. Whether it is a team coming in or a large group ready to take a class, they all have to be prepared to sign a liability waiver form before entering the gym.

Learn more about Gym Liability Waivers >>

“WaiverSign makes it easy to get everyone's liability forms without creating extra hassle or confusion”

Problem: Paper Waivers And Too Many Hats For A Small Gym Owner

With so many people coming in and out on a regular basis, it can be difficult to track everyone down and make sure they sign a paper waiver that ends up being several pages long. Full teams can have 20-30 athletes, and even though each of them may have signed up online, each one would still have to fill out a lengthy paper waiver when they arrived at the gym.

Convenience is one of the biggest perks that WaiverSign offers. The owner and head administrator for this small training gym wears a lot of hats. Responsible for bookkeeping, assisting, social media marketing, human resources, and so much more, it’s often hard to keep up. Because of this busy schedule and its demanding needs, there is no time to time to track down every single waiver to make sure things don't fall through the cracks.

Read some common questions asked by gym owners >>

WaiverSign was able to convert the paper process that BRelentless was using to a digital format and provide a simple link that all their new clients could sign with a few clicks. They had both a "Training Registration Form" as well as a "Waiver, Release and Assumption of Risk Form." They can now use WaiverSign to provide a single link to new clients. Their clients receive the link and fill in all the requested information including their goals, health history, injuries, and exercise history. Once they have filled in their information, WaiverSign then directs them to sign the registration form and then the waiver. If any minors are participating in the training, parents or guardians can easily sign for them as well.

Read some common questions asked by gym owners > >

Solution: WaiverSign Simplifies Waivers And All Onboarding Documents

Results: A Big Win For A Small Business

WaiverSign has made it so much easier to get everyone's liability waivers without creating extra hassle or confusion. Clients absolutely love the ease and convenience. With WaiverSign's convenient online options and tracking capabilities, teams can now get everyone signed up before they even enter the facility. Gym staff can see who has already filled out their information rather than rifling through packets of paper just to find a name. This also makes pop-up events way easier. Rather than lugging stacks of paper around and asking people to read long paragraphs of information in a packet, they can fill out these waivers right on their mobile device.

As a strength training and performance gym, BRelentless takes its job seriously to keep every one of its athletes and trainees safe. Having the right waivers in order helps save the company from liability and lightens concerns. They know everyone is protected and kept safe from a legal standpoint as the trainers work to ensure everyone is exercising safely. With the convenient ability to download waivers at any time, it's easy to ensure that no participant has missed signing one.

Try WaiverSign Free >>

Ready To Upgrade Your Waiver And On-Boarding Process For Your Gym?

Not only does WaiverSign save the team at BRelentless from worrying, but it also saves time and money. Rather than spending hours going through waivers or money on printing, all these liability forms are kept in a digital location that's completely secure. WaiverSign helps you stay organized automatically and saves you the headache of working through tedious tasks on the administration side. Start saving your time, energy, and money when you sign up for WaiverSign, so you can focus on the core aspects that are really important to your business.

Learn more about Gym Liability Waivers >>

Personal Trainers adopt Digital Liability Waivers

Thu, 13 May 2021 08:38:28 GMT

Personal Trainers Eagerly Adopt Digital Liability Waivers

Brandon Lake

Upgrading To Waiversign

WaiverSign was an upgrade from the center’s traditional way of handing out paper waivers for clients to sign before they used the workout equipment. Now clients sign workout-related waivers, digitally produced, before coming to the center or affix their signatures at a kiosk right at the center. And they are asked to sign a COVID-19-related Code of Conduct, also digital, that pledges them to adhere to the center’s protocols.

“The team at WaiverSign has been good at answering questions and helping us after we established the legal language,” notes Candia. “The WaiverSign system is organized by type of waiver and all in one place. This is so much better than juggling and storing multiple paper waivers.”

With protocols and waivers in place, Candia is looking forward to the fair-weather days when clients can enjoy the fresh air coming in from the open garage-size doors.

“We have a great team who keep the gym super clean and organized. The fresh air makes clients and trainers more relaxed,” she says.

Waivers are long associated with such high-risk pursuits as sky diving, river rafting, and bungee jumping. But as reported in Money, June 9, 2020, “As Americans return to their favorite gyms, salons, and restaurants, waivers will be part and parcel of the experience…”

By requiring signed waivers, businesses want clients to commit by signature, their understanding that this pandemic puts at risk all who choose to enter a locale. By acknowledging in advance the risks, the participant assumes responsibility for a decision to partake; and businesses adhering to disease-mitigation protocols may steer clear of liability for illness-related claims.

WaiverSign has experienced a massive spike in signups for its digital liability waiver application services. In the first quarter 2021, WaiverSign saw a 32% increase in the number of online waiver accounts signing up compared to the same time period in 2020.

Being cooped up by the pandemic may mean copping out on exercise. But spring brings the urge to take our bodies to task once again. A cadre of personal trainers stands ready to help with corporeal renovations.

For example, a team of seven personal trainers serves up to 40 clients daily at Wattage , a personal training facility in Chicago. Manager Maria Candia explains that training here is appointment-based, semi-private, or one-on-one.

“People want to move for an hour under the guidance of an experienced and certified trainer, someone who knows exactly what to do to help, even when outside of the gym,” she says.

Along with so many other businesses, Wattage was closed for a period of time in 2020, re-opening in June after establishing COVID-19 protocols to protect clients and staff. Among its protocols was the implementation of WaiverSign that provides a paperless path to obtaining signed online liability waivers from clients.

Adding an Exculpatory Clause to a Commercial Agreement.

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 08:34:18 GMT

Adding An Exculpatory Clause To A Commercial Agreement Can Protect A Business Owner

Anthony J. Ellrod

Exculpatory Clause In A Commercial Lease Agreement

The court’s opinion in the recent case Garcia v. D/Aq Corp. (2020) 57 Cal. App. 5th 902 is illustrative. In Garcia plaintiff was the tenant under a lease for a commercial premises. The lease contained an exculpatory clause providing that the lessor “shall not be liable for injury … to the person … of Lessee” and others, whether resulting from conditions arising on the premises or from other sources.

Plaintiff fell down a staircase after hitting his head on a beam in the doorway at the top of the staircase. He sued the landlord, alleging causes of action for premises liability and negligence. He alleged his fall was caused by the inherently dangerous condition of the staircase due to numerous building code violations. The landlord moved for summary judgment and the trial court granted the motion, based on the exculpatory clause in the lease. The court of appeal affirmed, stating that while “Civil Code section 1668 ordinarily ‘invalidates contracts that purport to exempt an individual or entity from liability for future intentional wrongs [citation] and gross negligence’ . . . [and] ‘prohibits contractual releases of future liability for ordinary negligence when ‘the “public interest” is involved or … an exemption from liability ‘located within a commercial lease between business entities’ does not implicate the public interest . . ..” (Garcia at 907.)

Exculpatory Clause In Residential Lease Agreement

Other cases have enforced exculpatory provisions in residential leases to a limited extent. While courts have consistently held that residential leases do in fact implicate the public interest, limited exculpatory agreements relating to certain non-essential aspects of a residential lease, such as a gym in an apartment complex, do not.

In Lewis Operating Corp. v. Superior Court (2011) 200 Cal. App. 4th 940 the plaintiff tenant was injured while using a treadmill at an exercise facility operated by the landlord. The lease agreement contained an exculpatory clause whereby the tenant agreed to assume all risk of harm resulting from, and to waive claims against the landlords relating to, his use of the exercise facility. The court held that case law prohibiting exculpatory clauses affecting the public interest did not invalidate the exculpatory provision of the lease agreement because recreational activities, such as the tenant's use of the exercise facility, were not essential services or necessities affecting the public interest.

As with releases in other contexts, to be enforced the release must be conspicuous, clear and unambiguous. If inserted as an exculpatory clause into a residential or commercial lease, the landlord would be wise to require a separate initial for the release in order to satisfy the conspicuous requirement. With respect to residential leases, the landlord should make it clear that the release applies only to specific non-essential portions of the leased premises such as on site gyms.

Exculpatory Clause In Other Commercial Agreements

Exculpatory provisions in other commercial contracts are becoming increasingly popular, along with limitation of liability provisions. Absent public policy implications, there is no reason that such provisions should not be enforced. In fact, since the bargaining power of parties to commercial transactions are typically more equal than in consumer transactions, the argument for enforcement is even stronger. Therefore exculpatory provisions should be included any time they can be negotiated.

When Does It Make Sense To Add An Exculpatory Clause Vs. Create A Separate Release And Waiver?

Best practices require all business owners to make efforts to reduce potential liability exposure as much as reasonably possible. For both commercial and residential landlords, this would include adding an exculpatory clause to their lease agreements. However such provisions must be drafted carefully to assure that they will be enforced. If properly constructed, an exculpatory clause in a lease agreement will provide another layer of protection for a landlord, and could end up saving your business.

Under certain circumstances having a separate free-standing waiver and release should be considered. While there is some support for the proposition that multiple releases can cause confusion impacting enforcement (Conservatorship of Link (1984) 158 Cal.App.3d 138), so long as the releases are not contradictory they should remain enforceable. (Powers v. Superior Court (1987) 196 Cal.App.3d 318.) Further, the stand-alone release will provide protection in the event that there is some problem with the primary agreement which results in the agreement being deemed void.

Anthony J. Ellrod, Esq. is a founding partner with Manning & Kass, Ellrod, Ramirez, Trester, LLP's Los Angeles office where he heads up the firm's Sports and Recreation and Commercial Transactions. Tony may be reached at (213) 6246900 or by email at AJE@manningllp.com. All information provided is of a general nature and is not intended nor represented to replace professional, specialized legal advice, nor should the information be relied upon as same.

The vast majority of cases involving releases and express assumption of risk agreements arise in the context of membership or participation agreements. However, an exculpatory clause or exculpatory agreement can also be effective in other commercial agreements, including lease agreements.

Waiver Templates - Should I Use One?

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 08:25:55 GMT

Waiver Templates and Why You Shouldn’t Use Them

Stephen Porritt

Reason #1: Templates Wont Cover Your Businesses Unique Needs

The advice to avoid using stock templates can be applied to any legal document, but since we’ve got “waiver” in our name, we’re going to use liability waivers as an example.

The first purpose of a waiver is to inform the signer of the risks related to the activity. If you’re, say, going bungee jumping, you sign a waiver that tells you that you risk certain injuries by, you know, jumping off a bridge. Or, if you’re really unlucky, you risk kissing terra firma at terminal velocity.

Most businesses obviously do everything in their power to minimize these risks, but there’s only so much that can be done before you’re just...not doing the activity. So, to make sure everyone’s on the same page regarding what’s at risk, and whether or not those risks are acceptable, liability waivers list all the risks inherent in the activity.

That way, no one can come to you after the fact and say “I didn’t know the risks.”

The problem here is that free waiver templates aren’t adapted to your profession, which has unique risks. Even if you find a waiver template that matches your profession (tours and adventure travel, for example), it won’t match your business, which will have its own unique risks.

But let’s pretend for a moment. Let’s say that you not only found a waiver in your industry, you also found one specific to your service (like our bungee jumping example above). In order for a waiver to serve its purpose, it needs to list all of the risks involved in the activity, and odds are if you’re grabbing a free template off the web, you’re going to be as lost as the rest of us when you read it to double-check.

In other words, even for templates that look like they perfectly match your situation, there’s not really any way to verify that it’s legitimate. If there are mistakes in the document, you’re not likely to notice, and neither will those who sign it. The court will definitley notice, though.

Reason #2: Templates May Include Non-Related Risks

The second purpose of a waiver is to give signers a chance to assume the risks of the activity. This is an extension of the previous purpose: first, you inform the participant or guest of the risks, then you give them an opportunity to accept those risks and agree that they’d like to move forward in spite of them.

This may seem a little redundant but it’s an important part of the legal process. With a properly written clause, the signer is explicitly stating that they know the risks as presented and that they’ve decided to assume the responsibility for any misfortune that happens as a result of those risks.

The problem with templates is they don’t always list all of the risks of the activity. If the risk isn’t listed in the clause that informs the signer, then it’s not covered in the clause that assumes the risks.

Worse yet, sometimes templates will include risks that aren’t relevant to your activity. This may seem like a “so what?” moment, but here, there can be too much of a good thing. Irrelevant risks can cause some serious complications should your waiver ever be brought up in a lawsuit (more on this below).

Bottom line: signers need a chance to agree to risks, and they need to know what those risks are to do that effectively.

Reason #3: Make Sure You Are Covered

The third purpose of a waiver is to allow the signer to release you from liability and to waive their right to pursue legal action.

This purpose goes hand-in-hand with the previous one, in a peanut-butter-and-jelly sort of way. For the whole waiver thing to work, the signer has to assume responsibility for the relevant risks, and then explicitly relieve you of those same legal responsibilities. Waiving the right to sue is an important addition to those two, a kind of cover-all-your-bases deal.

If any of these three steps are missed, it leaves room for legal claims to be made on a plaintiff’s behalf against your company.

The issue here is the same as the previous three: if the waiver doesn’t match the activity, they will be releasing you from the wrong liabilities (i.e. they haven’t released you from the liabilities you want them to). That gives them the freedom to claim that your business is still responsible for whatever mishap befell the signer.

To put it another way, it’s the legal equivalent of wearing flip-flops in a snowstorm. Sure, it functions like most shoes, but it isn’t offering most of the protection you really need.

Waivers have been a necessity for a number of businesses for decades now, but thanks to a global pandemic, they’re more popular than ever. As a result, a lot of companies are looking for a quick and cheap answer to their legal document needs. After all, who has the money to pay an actual lawyer to write something for them?

The internet has made a lot of things available to the general public, and quite a few businesses have used it to look for legal templates they can use instead of drafting a custom document. It’s hard to argue with a price of “free,” but that’s exactly what we’re about to do.

We know there’s a strong temptation to just Google “ free waiver template ,” grab the first one that looks good and slap your name on it, but we’d like to advise against it.

Let us explain why with 3 simple reasons.

Waivers Should Be Specific To You Business

Perhaps the best way to illustrate how waivers are supposed to work (and how dangerous it can be when they don’t) is to take you through a potential lawsuit. So let’s do that.

These types of disputes typically bring one of four legal claims against a business (translated from legalese for your convenience):

“You willingly overlooked something important, and that’s why I got hurt”
“You didn’t tell me the risks, so I didn’t know them going in”
“I didn’t accept responsibility for an accident like this”
“I knew there were risks, but you still had a responsibility to protect me”

The first kind of claim, known legally as “gross negligence,” is not something that can be covered by any waiver, regardless of how well written, and you’ll be held fully responsible in the event it can be proven. For this kind of dispute, your only real defense is preventing the negligence in the first place.

The other three types of claims, though, you can do something about. With a well-crafted waiver, you can show the court that the signer knew the risks, accepted the responsibility for them, and released your business from the liabilities.

But if your waiver isn’t written to fit your business, the judge will almost certainly throw it out. If the signer didn’t release you from the relevant risks or wasn’t able to assume the relevant risks, the judge won’t count it.

Even more than that, though, the judge will be sensitive to whether or not the waiver was representative of the actual risks invovled in the activity. This is because, while waiving their rights is important, actually knowing their rights is even more important, and here’s why.

The court system isn’t too fond of waivers. Most judges don’t like the idea of customers signing away these important rights, and often feel that no one should be allowed to sign away those rights.

So when they find out that, not only did you try to have them sign away their right to sue in the event of an accident, but you didn’t properly inform them so they could make an informed decision, it almost never results in an outcome that favors the business.

Ultimately, with a mismatched waiver, you’re leaving the door open for numerous lawsuits that might otherwise be preventable. What we’re saying is that using a free template is a classic example of “penny wise, pound foolish.”

Going Digital With Waivers

There is a cost-saving method you can use that doesn’t open you up to unnecessary legal risk, though. Rather than printing out endless copies, storing them in space that you’re paying for, and dealing with all the frustration caused by illegible handwriting and signers scribbling out stuff as they please, you can administer waivers digitally.

Look, you’re going for a waiver template to make things easy on yourself. Shortcutting things that way will only make things harder in the end, but converting your waivers (and other documents) to a digital format can save you a lot of hassle. Plus, it’s cheaper than printing copies and storing them in physical space.

It’s a lot simpler than it sounds, and it sure makes looking up a waiver a lot easier. So if you’re interested, contact us. We’ll show you around and help you figure out if WaiverSign will work for your business. And if it doesn’t, we’ll help you find a solution that does.

Paperless. Contactless. Hassle-less. That’s WaiverSign .

Choice of Law and Forum Selection Clauses in Waivers – Do They Matter?

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 08:19:04 GMT

Choice of Law and Forum Selection Clauses in Waivers – Do They Matter?

Leah Corrigan

A common question in my practice is: “What is the point of a clause in a waiver indicating what state’s law applies and where a lawsuit must be filed?” Such language can be at least convenient, and more likely critically important, in the event of an accident that results in a lawsuit. While these clauses are often found together, they serve distinct, though equally important functions. A forum selection clause indicates the signing party’s agreement to where they must file a lawsuit against you. A choice of law clause indicates what state’s law applies to the future plaintiff’s claims. While the importance of such clauses can vary depending on where you operate, in most cases both clauses are advisable.

In this article you will find information on:

Strategic Benefits Of A Forum Selection Clause

Simply put, for many businesses, there are strategic benefits to being sued in a “hometown” forum. On a broad scale, there can be an advantage to the local judge or jury pool being familiar with your business, particularly if the person who is suing you is from out-of-town. Familiarity often invokes a sense of trust in the local business and the people who run them, and there can also be a tendency of the “hometown” jury pool to protect businesses that are important to the local economy. Similarly, local familiarity with the type of business you run can increase the possibility that the jury or judge will better understand issues important to your defense. For example, take the case of a rafting company who operates on the Arkansas River in Colorado, where a man drowns after falling out of the boat in a class IV rapid. The people that live in the areas around the Arkansas River (who would ultimately make up the jury), are likely to have an understanding that the river can be inherently dangerous, and that if you choose to go whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River, it is possible to fall out of a boat and drown. Another illustration would be a horseback riding outfitter in the Bitterroot Mountains of Montana, who conducts a trail ride on which a woman from San Francisco was injured after getting bucked off a horse. A local jury, many of whom are likely to either ride horses or be very familiar with them, will have a more innate understanding that horses are animals and can be dangerous than a more urban jury pool. Finally, another important consideration of a forum selection clause is that it is far more convenient, and generally less expensive, to be sued in the place where you live.

What If You Don’t Have A Forum Selection Clause?

If you don’t have a forum selection clause in your waiver , it is possible to be sued in a non-local jurisdiction, particularly if the injured person is from out of state, or if you operate in multiple areas outside of where your business is headquartered. Taking the example above, an unfortunate scenario for the Arkansas River outfitter would be if the deceased man’s family is from Pennsylvania, and therefore is able to sue the outfitter in Federal Court in Denver, Colorado, as opposed to the local state court. Any advantage created by a jury pool familiar with rafting and with the outfitter’s business has now evaporated, and the costs and inconvenience of litigating the case in downtown Denver will begin to become quickly apparent to the outfitter. While I almost always include forum selection clauses in my client’s waivers, there are many factors that may mitigate for or against choosing a particular forum, and for some clients, the choices are fairly limited. The client’s particular circumstances will dictate how I advise them on this point, but the importance of the analysis cannot be overstated.

What Is A Choice Of Law Clause?

State law on various issues relevant to the operations of your business can vary, sometimes significantly. Therefore, requiring the person signing your waiver to agree to the application of a particular state’s law can create significant advantage in the event of a lawsuit. Consider a rock-climbing guide service that is based in Wyoming that also takes clients climbing in multiple states across the west. One area where the guide service takes clients rock climbing is the Sawtooth Mountain range outside of Stanley, Idaho, where the company is licensed as a climbing service with the State of Idaho. Imagine that on a Sawtooth climbing trip, a client slips on a short section of exposed traverse and falls to their death. The company uses a standard liability waiver , which the client has signed, but the company does not have a forum selection or choice of law clause in their waiver. The deceased climber’s family sues the guide service in the Federal Court in Boise. Because the climb occurred in Idaho, and the case was brought in Idaho, the guide service has lost any right to argue that Wyoming law applies to the case. The practical consequence of this could be that: 1) The waiver is deemed invalid under Idaho law as a matter of public policy (a waiver which almost certainly would have been valid under Wyoming law); and 2) The company cannot argue that the Wyoming Recreation Safety Act (which makes outdoor recreation providers immune to lawsuits based on injuries arising out of inherent risks) applies to bar the Plaintiff’s claims. Therefore, two critically important legal defenses are lost by the company’s failure to include a choice of law clause in their waiver.

While choice of law and forum selection clauses have their limits, and are not always presumptively enforceable in every state, the concepts are very important and well-worth exploring with a lawyer experienced in this area of law. The inclusion of these clauses can have a major impact on the defense of your business in the event of an accident or incident.

Digital Health Club Documents

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 06:10:43 GMT

Streamlining Business with Digital Health Club Documents

Stephen Porritt

If you’ve seen our website or read our other posts, you’re probably used to seeing us talk about liability releases and waivers. After all, it’s in the name. But many of our clients use our solution for other types of documents, and have seen the same benefits—quicker document signing, easier access to signed documents, reduced costs, and a simpler process overall.

Take, for instance, Manhattan Plaza Health Club (MPHC) in New York City. Rather than using WaiverSign to administer waivers, MPHC uses our service for several documents, signed both by members and staff alike.

According to Shannon Maloney, front desk manager at the health club, “MPHC uses WaiverSign for our new Code of Conduct/Member Acknowledgement that our members must sign off on before their first check in to the health club (post reopening). We also have all of our members and staff complete their required Daily Health Screening through WaiverSign.”

These are all important documents that help in mitigating liability, despite not being actual waivers. The WaiverSign system works for these documents because each person is signing the same template document.

Unlike contracts, leases, and other agreements that have to be customized for the signer, every time someone at MPHC signs a daily health screening, they’re signing a fresh copy of the same document the last person signed. Ditching all of those paper copies of each of those documents for digital templates that can be used over and over again has made life easier at MPHC.

“The biggest benefit to using WaiverSign,” Shannon explains, “Is that it is user-friendly for our varied demographic and it streamlines the process for all waivers that need to be signed in our health club.”

WaiverSign also helps with organization and document retrieval, making managing the paperwork and contact information a lot easier. “The fact that WaiverSign can store all of the data from our waivers in their website is also appealing to us for our facility records,” Shannon says. “We love how simple it is to view documents in real-time and to also have the capability to search by name or time period.”

We’re glad to hear it, Shannon.

Liability Waivers for Employees

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 08:10:16 GMT

Liability Waivers for Employees

Benjamin Ross

Often, different states have different rules for waivers, but one thing is consistent across the country: when it comes to thinking about using waivers for your employees, businesses cannot have workers waive Occupational Safety and Health Administration rights or liability. OSHA asserts that the health and safety of workers are an employer’s responsibility, and ones that cannot be waived.

In this article we will address 3 main points:

What Does OSHA Do?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulates workplace safety, performing scheduled inspections of worksites, investigating complaints and accidents, and creating emphasis programs that focus on trending safety problems. OSHA enforces a regulatory system that covers most industries with general rules and employs specific rules for some industries.

Some states use a state plan to regulate workplace safety, meaning that federal OSHA monitors a state-run agency’s workplace safety and health program, and the state program regulates the businesses in the state. OSHA requires that state plans are at least as effective as OSHA in protecting workers and in preventing work-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths.

Usually, state plan states enforce most federal regulations, making exceptions only for a handful of rules that are stricter or more specific than the federal rules.

Regardless of federal or state enforcement of workplace safety rules, workers cannot waive their rights. Federal OSHA has specifically addressed liability waivers for employees in several contexts, always refusing to allow their use.

Whistleblowers

The best information concerning OSHA’s view of waivers comes from their guidance on what they allow in settlement agreements between businesses and whistleblowers. A settlement agreement establishes the rights of parties, and often its terms contain waivers of rights. OSHA will not allow agreements or liability waivers that prohibit, restrict, or otherwise discourage protected activity, including:

Broad confidentiality or non-disparagement clauses
Provisions restricting the right to provide information to the government, participate in investigations, file a complaint, or testify in proceedings based upon past or future conduct
Provisions requiring workers to notify employers before complaining to or voluntarily communicating with the government concerning past or future conduct
Provisions requiring workers to affirm that they have not previously provided information to the government or engaged in other protected activity, or to disclaim any knowledge that the employer has violated the law
Provisions requiring workers to waive their right to receive or requiring workers to remit any part of a monetary award from a government-administered whistleblower award program for providing information to a government agency
Provisions requiring liquidated damages for breach, which are often improper

Together these prohibitions mean that OSHA does not allow employees to waive rights that help it enforce its regulations. OSHA also prohibits waivers that seek to remove employer duties that regulations mandate.

Issuing guidance concerning waivers of regulatory duties, OSHA has consistently rejected their use. The guidance specifically addresses waivers concerning workers’ right to:

Wear protective equipment
Get fit-tested for respiratory use
Retain bloodborne pathogen samples for 90 days
Forgo claims for hepatitis B vaccinations

None of these situations allows employers to waive any regulatory requirements.

What To Do For Employees Instead Of Waivers

Where liability waivers for employees don’t work, businesses should educate workers on how to work safely. Businesses should train workers to safely perform their assigned tasks and to use any personal protective equipment associated with those tasks. Additionally, workers should have stop-work authority, which allows them to stop any tasks that are unsafe.

Reporting safety concerns is important for workers, and employers should welcome such information without retribution, and notify workers of that policy of readily receiving feedback. The details of the strategy will depend upon the situation, but information and training can replace waivers to avoid OSHA citations and other enforcement action.

H2: Other Employee Agreement Documents

While a business can’t have their employees waive their right to a safe work environment, there are a number of other documents that can be used to help protect the business from a variety of legal and professional issues.

Closest to the current topic are situations like vaccines—in these cases, informed consent forms are allowed and can protect businesses from legal actions based on claims such as “I didn’t agree to that,” and “I didn’t know it was an option.”

Other documents a business might have employees sign (that OSHA doesn’t bar you from) include:

Non-disclosure agreements (for proprietary brand information, and sensitive client information)
Non-compete agreements (to prevent an employee from working for a competitor simultaneously, or leaving the employer for a competitor)
COVID Screenings (to give employees a chance to declare that they are symptom-free)
Photo or video release forms (to secure the right to use an employee’s likeness)
Company code of conduct agreements (to ensure the employee knows the rules)

For all of these examples (and for others we didn’t include here), you can simplify the processes of administering, storing, and organizing these documents by making them digital. Software solutions like WaiverSign allow you to convert paper documents to digital templates that can be administered online, and signed by computer or mobile device.

Conclusion

Properly drafted liability waivers can be good tools for businesses, especially to prevent tort claims. But OSHA enforces its standards and protects worker rights without considering waivers, and may even allege that an employer violates the law by attempting to have workers sign unenforceable waivers.

Whenever businesses encounter laws that OSHA and other government agencies enforce on behalf of workers, they should know that using waivers is not always the best solution.

Attorney's Fees Provisions & Fitness Liability Waivers

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 08:02:12 GMT

Attorney's Fees Provisions in Health & Fitness Liability Waivers

Anthony J. Ellrod

Health clubs, horseback riding facilities, sports teams, and other sports and recreation facilities are constantly being sued for personal injuries despite the fact that the plaintiff has signed a release of liability waiver. As a result, such businesses and their insurers are forced to expend large amounts of money defending what are in essence frivolous claims. One option is to do what USA Cycling did - include an attorney's fees provision in the release of liability waiver. Such a provision, and the resulting award of over $30,000 in attorney's fees, was upheld by the California Court of Appeal.

Kendall v. USA Cycling, et al. involved a street bicycle race that took place in Utah. The plaintiff suffered significant injuries, including severe brain damage, as a result of an accident that occurred when she was struck by a male rider. In fact, her injuries were so severe that she had to re-learn how to read, tell time, etc. The plaintiff claimed that the defendants were negligent in starting the races in such a manner that the female racers were overtaken by the male racers. She further argued that the court should apply Utah law, as that is where the accident occurred. The defendants denied any negligence and asserted that even if there was negligence, the plaintiff’s action was barred because of two separate releases the plaintiff signed in order to compete in the race.

On the choice of law issue, the court applied California law finding that the laws in Utah and California were substantially similar. The court then granted the defendants’ motion for summary judgment based upon the releases the plaintiff signed and entered judgment in favor of the defendants.

Following the motion for summary judgment, the defendants brought a motion to recover all attorney's fees and costs incurred in defending the action based upon the attorney's fees provision of the release. The provision read as follows:

“I agree, for myself and my successors, that the above representations are contractually binding, and are not mere recitals, and that should I or my successors assert any claim in contravention of this agreement, the asserting party shall be liable for the expenses (including legal fees) incurred by the other party or parties in defending unless the other party or parties are finally adjudged liable on such claim for willful and wanton negligence...”

Based upon the foregoing, the court granted the defendants’ motion and awarded defendants in excess of $30,000 in fees and costs. The court of appeal affirmed, finding that the parties were free to contract on the issue of attorney's fees, and found that the fees and costs awarded were reasonable and supported by the evidence.

Risks Of Including Attorney's Fee Provisions In A Release Of Liability Waiver

The question then becomes whether or not it is always advisable to include an attorney's fees provision in a release of liability waiver used in the sports and recreation industry. The answer appears to be yes. There are, however, some risks.

In California, an attorney's fees provision which by its language limits its applicability to one party, is, by operation of law deemed applicable to both. Therefore, in the event that the health & fitness club does not prevail on the waiver and release it could be held responsible to pay some or all of the plaintiff’s attorney's fees. While we are aware of no case on point, it would appear, however, that the plaintiff would only be entitled to those fees necessary to defeat the waiver and release, i.e. oppose the motion for summary judgment. If the club prevails, however, it would be entitled to all costs of defense.

Furthermore, there is authority for the proposition that if worded correctly, the attorney's fees provision can be limited so that it applies only if the release is successfully asserted as a defense to a tort claim. In other words, if the release of liability waiver is being used solely as a defense, attorney's fees will not be awarded to the plaintiff even if the plaintiff successfully defeats the assertion of the release as a defense.

Health & fitness clubs and other businesses in the sports and recreation industries are consistently forced to defend lawsuits for personal injuries despite the fact that the plaintiff has signed a release. As a result, insurance costs and attorney's fees are high even though the vast majority of cases have no merit. It would therefore be wise to at least consider including an attorney's fees provision in the release of liability waiver provision so that some or all of these costs can be recovered.

Medical Liability Waivers

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 07:56:13 GMT

“What’s a Medical Liability Waiver?” and Other Important Questions Answered

Stephen Porritt

Here at WaiverSign, we talk a lot about liability waivers for tour and activity operators, but they're not the only businesses that need protection from legal kerfluffles. In fact, if any industry has a need to use a liability waiver, it's the healthcare industry—after all, it's hard to get more serious than "life and limb." Without a properly worded waiver , even a single medical mishap can ruin a practice.

That, dear friends, is where the medical liability waiver comes in.

What Is A Medical Liability Waiver?

In general, a liability waiver (sometimes called a "release of liability") is a legal agreement where the signer does two things: 1) "waives" (or gives up) the right to sue in the event of misfortune or "simple negligence," and 2) releases a person or organization from "liability" (i.e. “legal responsibility”). In order for both of those actions to be valid, however, the waiver needs to explain the risks involved in the given activity, and the signer needs to be given time to read it.

Medical liability waivers work the same way but are signed by patients, and are tailored to the specifics of the healthcare industry. A good medical waiver is carefully written so that medical professionals won’t be unduly held responsible for things that are a) outside their control, or b) not wholly their fault. It helps prevent patients or their families from blaming practitioners for things like complications, side effects, or a patient's ignorance.

It's important to be aware, though, that no waiver is foolproof. Under the right circumstances, a plaintiff may win in a legal battle even if their complaint is covered by the waiver. More importantly, there are things that no waiver can cover, such as "gross negligence," "malpractice," or intentional harm.

Finally, we want to stress that the best waivers (meaning the most effective ones) are bespoke—they're unique to both the circumstance and the provider. Sure, you can just snag a template you found online and insert the names and verbiage you need, but we don't recommend it. You'll be much better protected if you work with a legal professional to design a custom waiver that addresses your specific needs (and only your needs; extra, irrelevant stuff can get your waiver thrown out of court).

Looking for a Medical Release Form or HIPPA Authorization
This type of agreement is different than a medical liability waiver, but used by nearly all healthcare organizations. See an example Medical Release and HIPPA Authorization Form .

Who Uses Medical Liability Waivers?

Medical liability waivers, as you might expect, are used by medical professionals. For example:

Family doctors
Specialists
Nurse practitioners
Physical and occupational therapists
Surgeons

All of the above are providers that might (and probably should) use a waiver. They may even be used by less traditional or obvious wellness professionals, such as chiropractors, massage therapists, practitioners of alternative medicine, or veterinary professionals.

Essentially, any trained, licensed professional who monitors or attempts to modify (i.e. "improve") the operation of the body of a person (or animal) stands to benefit from using a medical liability waiver

It’s not just individuals, either. In many cases, it's the facility (the clinic, hospital, or otherwise) that administers the waiver. When that happens, the medical waiver usually includes language that includes the professionals that work at the facility as protected entities.

Why do so many different professionals use medical liability waivers? Because there are inherent risks in treating illness, no matter what kind it is, and the more severe the illness, the greater the risks.

Typically, though, medical liability waivers are only required when the level of the risk exceeds a minimum threshold. In other words, you may sign a simple, generic waiver at a clinic for things like refilling prescriptions or getting a flu shot and will only have to sign a waiver unique to the procedure when it gets more invasive (as with surgery).

Get your Medical Liability Waiver setup today at Waiversign

Is A Medical Liability Waiver The Same As An Informed Consent Form?

Now, if you've ever had a major medical procedure done yourself, you may be a little confused at this point, since a medical liability waiver probably wasn’t the only document you were required to sign. Most likely, you were also required to sign an informed consent form (sometimes called a "medical consent form" or a "consent to treat form").

If that's the case, you're probably curious why they didn't combine both into a single document, or why a medical liability waiver doesn't count as both. Those are common questions, and providers don’t always do a good job of explaining the difference, so we’ll help them out by doing that here.

Informed consent forms are used so patients can declare their willingness to undergo a specific treatment, regardless of risks or alternative options. Without them, they can claim in court that they didn't agree to treatment and that they were treated against their will.

Medical liability waivers are releases, meaning that they're used so that patients can confirm that they won't pursue legal action if something goes wrong during the procedure (barring gross negligence or malpractice).

Where informed consent forms state something similar to "I know the risks and I still want treatment, and I won't claim you treated me without my permission," medical liability waivers say something along the lines of "I know the risks, and I won’t blame you if something goes wrong."

This is complicated enough when you're signing for yourself, but it gets even more complicated when the patient receiving treatment can't do so. The most common example is when a minor is receiving treatment; in this case, the parent or guardian signs a "parental consent form" on their behalf (though, depending on age, the patient may still have to sign an "informed assent form").

Similarly, when a patient isn't conscious, coherent, or of sound mind, authority is usually given to the next of kin to sign for them. The only time this isn't required is when treatment is addressing a life-threatening condition. In these cases, consent is assumed, since otherwise, they won't live long enough to even complain about it.

This is also where DNR ("Do Not Resuscitate") forms come in, as they're essentially the exact opposite of a consent to treat form.

Bottom line: consent forms grant permission to providers, while medical liability waivers release them from responsibility.

Get your Medical Liability Waiver setup today

Can Medical Liability Waivers Be Signed Digitally?

Ok, here's where what we do becomes relevant. If you're someone who uses medical liability waivers on a regular basis, regardless of what you do or why you need one, you've probably run into the inherent issues with doing it all on paper (and there are quite a few of them).

For one, you always have to have copies on hand. Sure, you probably have a decent printer/copier on-site, but if you're totally out of copies you have to go digging for the digital file in order to print more (and wait times in medical facilities are already long enough as it is).

For another, printing costs money, something you're all too aware of whenever you have to buy another box of paper, replace an ink cartridge, or have that fancy printer repaired.

Then there are issues with people signing them by hand. Some people have worse handwriting than the doctors at your clinic, making them virtually illegible. Beyond that, there isn’t much document integrity, seeing as signers can just cross stuff out or write stuff in (which can seriously undermine your waiver in court).

And don't get us started on filing the paper waivers. Finding anything in that mess (even if it's properly organized) is scarier than any needle.

The good news is that, with the right tools, medical liability waivers can be administered, signed, and stored digitally, eliminating all of these issues. But where, oh where, could you find such tools?

Setup up your Free Waiversign Account Today

WaiverSign Can Help

We know how frustrating paper waivers can be, even though we learned those hard facts in a completely different industry. We were using paper waivers for our adventure travel businesses, and let's just say it was...less than fun. That's the whole reason we built WaiverSign—so we didn't have to deal with those drawbacks anymore.

With WaiverSign, you can create an unlimited number of templates (for your consent forms, liability waivers, and anything else you need signed), store an unlimited number of signed documents, and allow your patients to sign from nearly anywhere.

Perhaps best of all, you can finally give these documents to patients in advance, ditching the "signed under duress" argument at last.

It's a robust system with a ton of other features designed to make life easier for you, and we'd love to show you how it works. Just contact us , and we'll chat with you about how to use WaiverSign, then give you the keys and let you drive, giving you a chance to see if it works for you. Oh, and you get to try it for free . Did we mention that part?

Paperless. Contactless. Hassle-less. That’s WaiverSign.

Benefits of WaiverSign Online Waivers

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 07:48:27 GMT

The Benefits of Using WaiverSign

Brandon Lake

WaiverSign as a digital waiver solution has a number of advantages over its competitors. In this section, we break down the benefits, and explain how WaiverSign can help you do what you're already doing, but better.

Other Sections:

Creating Liability Waivers And Other Documents

When you log into your WaiverSign account, you'll see that you can create an unlimited number of documents. This is helpful because again, you might have your standard liability waiver. But you might have your terms and conditions here. You might have something related to COVID like we had to put together. You might have a photo release form or any number of other forms.

Any of these participant agreements can be stored inside WaiverSign, and each one can be customized in your own account.

To be clear, WaiverSign isn't something that provides the waiver document for you. You'll need to work with someone like Chunnie or an attorney in your country to craft the documents so it fits the specifics of your business. Once you have the document, though, we can help you convert it to a digital format, and the rest can all be done electronically.

Collecting Participant Data On Your Waiver

Once you have the documents ready, all the formatting and editing tools are built in to WaiverSign. That way, you can actually customize what information you want to collect.

All the standard fields are there for email, first name, middle name, last name, gender, date of birth—all that information you'd expect. But you can also create custom fields if there's some additional information you need to collect from your participants.

Multiple Languages For Online Waivers

WaiverSign also lets you determine what language to show on your liability waivers or other documents. So, if you have somebody whose native language is not English and you need to present the signing flow in Spanish in the document, you can work with someone to get that document in Spanish and then actually present it to your participants in that language.

Handling Adults And Minors On Waivers

The other thing that the system does that's maybe a little different than other solutions is it actually facilitates the signing of adults and minors. With the ability to customize the age of majority (or at what age a minor becomes an adult), you can actually plug all of that into the system. Then, when it asks for the date of birth, it will validate everything and make sure that parents are signing for minors as needed.

Sending Signed Waivers To Participants

Each time a waiver or other agreement is signed, a copy of the signed agreement is actually sent to the participant, and you can trigger a notification to yourself as well. This is double coverage in case your guests are inclined to sign without reading first.

Not only do they sign before they show up, but they've been sent a copy to keep via email, meaning they've had ample time to review it. It's an effective way to counteract "under duress" arguments.

Viewing Signed Liability Waivers Or Other Agreements

Once you have signed waivers or other agreements, you can log into your WaiverSign account, and you'll see all the documents that have been signed there. In literally seconds, you can look up any participant's name, open up the signed document, and review the information inside the PDF.

ATTA Partnership Sign Up

Be sure to get the direct link to the partnership sign-up page from ATTA. There you'll find more details about the advantages of using WaiverSign. You'll find all the features spelled out there as well. On the page, you'll see a form you can fill out with your contact information. There's no commitment. You provide your documents and your logo and we'll get it all set up. You can then look at it live and make sure you're ready to move forward and activate your account.

Online Waiver Questions from Tour Companies

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 07:43:41 GMT

Online Waiver Questions from Tour Companies

Chun T. Wright
Washington DC-based attorney and former prosecutor at the US Attorney's Office, Chun serves as legal counsel to businesses across the country.

In this final section, we’ll answer a host of excellent questions from tour companies regarding the online waiver process, how WaiverSign stands out from other solutions, and much more.

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Despite Coronavirus Challenges, this company is swinging for the fences

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 06:08:18 GMT

Using Digital Sports Waivers to Keep Players on the Field

Stephen Porritt

This year has been a pretty bad deal all around, but it's been an especially hard blow for the athletic industry. From the Major Leagues down to t-ball teams, games have been canceled, practices suspended, and the near future for every sport has been thrown into uncertainty.

Even as some sports have resumed activity, it's been a little dicey, and a lot of adjustments have had to be made to ensure the safety of the players, the referees, the coaches, the spectators, and everyone else who comes to the field.

No organization knows this like DS Sports Ventures , a sports investment group that supports nearly 9,000 teams local to the state of Florida. They’ve had to make their own modifications to how they operate, as Annie Cross-Cordon, COO of the investment group, explains. "The COVID-19 pandemic forced our sporting event companies to implement additional waivers in order to get back on the fields."

Sports teams already typically require participants to sign one or more legal documents before allowing them onto the team; requiring their 140,000 players to sign even more waivers presented some serious complications. So they turned to WaiverSign for help making that process easier.

" Kate and WaiverSign were able to help us get our system up and running quickly and seamlessly," Cross-Cordon states.

With WaiverSign, DS Sports Ventures—along with their teams—have been able to turn their waivers into digital documents, making them easier to administer, easier to collect, easier to store, and easier to retrieve when needed. It’s made their signing process faster, simpler, and less frustrating. All are changes they’re extremely grateful for.

"I highly recommend them for anyone looking to collect and organize waivers from a large group of participants," says Cross-Cordon.

If your business or organization administers waivers, terms and conditions, or other documents to large groups, we invite you to test-drive our online waivers for free and see firsthand how your processes could benefit from digital signing and storage.

Paperless. Contactless. Hassle-less. That's WaiverSign .

Easy to Use Digital Waivers for Combat Centers

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 06:05:33 GMT

Easy to use Digital Waivers Help Businesses Conquer Battlegrounds and Back Offices

Stephen Porritt

The need for effective, easy-to-use waivers (and for better document signing processes in general) is not unique to the United States. Case in point: our good friends at The Mill Combat Centre in Northern Ireland.

Doing Battle At The Mill

Housed inside the historic Blackers Mill (a building that dates back to 1619 and served as an integral part of the fabric industry), The Mill Combat Centre is an indoor warzone, where skirmishes of every kind take place. Home to paintball and airsoft games, axe throwing, and much more, it’s a great place to blow off steam, build camaraderie, and experience the thrill of victory.

The thing is, all of this excitement comes with a little bit of risk, and having players sign paper waivers can be a hassle. That’s why The Mill uses WaiverSign to offer online waivers to all of its customers.

"As a business, we are always looking for new ways to enhance our customer experience and streamline our business to be more efficient," says Gordon Dreyer, director at The Mill. "We have many regular customers who spend a lot of time completing waivers before checking in and enjoying our activities. Going digital allows us to save all documentation securely online. Customers now only have to sign once and we know exactly where to find the signed waivers when needed."

No one wants to spend the evening signing paperwork on game day, and with digital waivers, the team at The Mill is helping their guests avoid that unhappy scenario. That’s not the only reason they like WaiverSign, though.

"The whole setup was easy from start to finish," Dreyer says. "The process was very straight forward and not complicated at all. WaiverSign's level of professionalism and efficiency was outstanding throughout. I can strongly recommend changing over to WaiverSign for your online needs."

High praise from a group that knows all about gaining an edge in a fight. The Mill is putting digital waivers to good use by providing a smooth and painless experience for their guests, giving them a leg up on the competition. We're just happy to be part of their adventure.

Paperless. Contactless. Hassle-less . That’s WaiverSign

Get Your Team Back in the Game

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 06:03:01 GMT

With Digital Sports Liability Waivers, You Can Put an End to COVID Rainchecks

Kate Tucker

I have been amazed at the amount of sports teams that have reached out to WaiverSign to implement a digital signing link to their sports liability waivers for their players. We’ve been contacted by potential clients in nearly every sport: tennis, softball, baseball, swimming, basketball, football, soccer, wrestling, and lacrosse, just to name a few.

These teams are all looking to WaiverSign to help administer online sports waivers to their participants and families—from their specific league waivers to new COVID-19 waivers based on the DHEC rules and regulations in their area.

It's all part of the modifications that have been required due to the pandemic, and it's just the start. A facility in New Jersey even requires teams that practice and play there to get their players to sign a waiver with COVID language each time they take the field. At least one of those teams (a client of ours) has already learned just how helpful making their sports liability releases digital can be.

WaiverSign Can Help

As you navigate getting your team back to practice and competitions, consider adding WaiverSign as your digital waiver partner. There are so many options and features within WaiverSign's electronic waiver system that supports what teams like yours are trying to accomplish. Unlimited document templates and unlimited storage of signed documents are just the beginning.

For instance, there are several sports teams using the event functionality within WaiverSign and setting up tournaments, including dates, customized tournament names, and a branded digital sports waiver link for players to sign before their tournament.

How you get the link to participants is up to you, and you have no shortage of options. You can, for example, send it in a confirmation email, post it on your website, or even link waivers to QR codes to have participants sign on location with their own mobile devices. Players and their parents can sign on their phones, tablets, or any internet-connected computer, making it super easy to sign on the fly if needed.

It's been a tough spring and summer and so many youth and adult athletes have been put on hold with their respective sports. It truly makes me happy to talk to coaches and team managers as sports begin to open up in states across the country. Coaches especially are loving WaiverSign because they can see who has signed and who hasn’t, ensuring that all waivers are signed before the event.

If we can help your team, please reach out ; we would love to help you get organized and back on the field (or on the court, or on the mat, or in the pool, or wherever you compete), back to enjoying the camaraderie of team spirit, and back to the sport you love.

Paperless. Contactless. Hassle-less. That’s WaiverSign .

WaiverSign and ATTA Partnership

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 07:23:48 GMT

WaiverSign & the ATTA Partnership

Brandon Lake

WaiverSign is one of those digital waiver solutions we recommended using, and in this section, we provide some background on our company, why our online waiver platform was created, and what our new partnership with ATTA means for members.

Background On WaiverSign

Our story doesn't begin with the software. It actually begins in the middle of the Grand Canyon. Nearly 60 years ago, a company called Western River Expeditions pioneered the concept of rafting vacations. We were the first operator to offer multi-day rafting trips to travelers, and we continue to be a leader in the whitewater rafting space.

Today, we're very fortunate to be able to say that Western River Expeditions has become one of the largest rafting companies in the world. We offer trips in the Grand Canyon, the Pacific Northwest, Costa Rica, and Southern Utah.

We've always focused on perfecting the guest experience, from beginning to end. For the longest time, that only meant direct interaction—taking phone calls so guests can book a trip, answering questions from someone who came to our front desk, interactions with river guides during trips, and the like.

But the reality is that today, an important portion of the guest experience happens through technology as guests interact indirectly with our companies. In order to perfect that part of the experience, we had to take steps to ensure that those initial impressions they had of our brand were professional. This included our website, our reservation systems, and our waivers—basically, everything that people interact with before they even see or speak to a person.

A decade ago, Western River's collection of documents was becoming a real pain. And not just for our guests, but also for our staff as well. We had years of boxes stored with signed waivers. And when you’re dealing with over half a century of documents, it’s nearly impossible to find anything in the stack.

We determined we had to make the liability waiver process easier, for our team, and for our customers. For our team, it was about making the process easier to administer, easier to organize, and easier to store. For our customers, it was about avoiding the hassle of trying to get waivers from one place to another, and back again.

So, we began working with insurance companies and attorneys like Chunnie to develop an online process. We wanted a process that would work well for our company, but that could also serve the rest of the travel industry. After a year or two of development and testing, WaiverSign was born.

A New Partnership With ATTA

Other Sections:

Now, as part of a partnership with ATTA, we're offering our services to the members of the association at a discounted price. This applies to both paid business members as well as free community members. That means, for the current membership pricing, you'll get access to your own WaiverSign account, and all the benefits that come with it, including:

Unlimited templates for waivers (or other documents)
Unlimited users
Unlimited storage
Full access to our industry-trained support team

Most importantly, you’ll be able to collect documents digitally and store them forever. So if you'd like to see our solution in action, or want to talk to someone about hardball questions, contact us . We'd be happy to speak with you and to give you a chance to test drive the system.

Electronic Waiver Benefits

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 07:05:41 GMT

Electronic Waiver Benefits

Brandon Lake

Ok, so we've covered the basics of waivers, and whether they're necessary to address COVID concerns. But doing it all on paper is kind of a hassle. Is there an easier way? Can it be done digitally? And if so, is that really a better alternative, or are digital waivers less valid? In this section, we address all of these questions and more.

Are Electronic Waivers Valid?

Ten years ago, the big concern among members of the adventure travel industry was "Are electronic signatures lawful?" To this day, some operators still worry that a document signed digitally is less valid in court than one signed by hand. In the United States, at least, that's not the case.

Under the Uniform Electronic Signatures Act passed in 1999, as long as the signer consents to using a digital signature, it's as valid as a real, handwritten signature. The act is a federal law, and most states have either adopted it as is or adopted their own version of the federal law, making digital signatures acceptable in court across the country.

Outside of the US, many other countries have passed similar laws that support the validity of digital documents. That said, you'll want to check with your attorney if you have questions about specifics.

Why Should I Use A Digital Waiver?

In the past 30 years, society has converted a lot of things from analog to digital formats. For example, it used to be that if you wanted to get a copy of a form into someone's hands, you either had to mail it, deliver it yourself, or have them come pick it up. Then, the internet gave us tools like email, Dropbox, and G Suite. With them, we can share files from anywhere, using devices we take practically everywhere.

Digital tools have made dramatic improvements for all of us, both inside and outside the office. If taking something manual and making it digital can face it faster, easier, and more accessible, why would we ever go back to paper?

It's the same with waivers. One of the most important advantages is being able to find what you need when you need it. In the event of a dispute, your lawyer's first question will be, "Well, did they sign a waiver, and where is it?" Even the most organized system for paper storage makes finding things difficult. But with digital waivers, all you have to do is look up their name.

Other benefits include:

They are much easier for your staff to administer
The digital signing process is easier for customers
Customers can sign from anywhere
Waivers can be signed in advance, making life easier at check-in time
They’re much easier to store, and storage costs way less
You never have to worry about keeping things organized
You don’t have to keep printed copies on hand, and you save hundreds on printing costs
Digital waivers are contactless
Having electronic liability waivers makes your business look more professional

Going digital makes the entire waiver process simpler. It allows you to collect valuable demographic information. And it saves you a lot of time. So, if you're not already using a digital waiver software , consider jumping on the bandwagon.

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Liability Waivers for COVID

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 18:29:53 GMT

Liability Waivers for COVID or Other Forms of Infectious Disease

Chun T. Wright
Washington DC-based attorney and former prosecutor at the US Attorney's Office, Chun serves as legal counsel to businesses across the country.

COVID-19 poses a lot of unique challenges to the travel industry, and a lot of operators are wondering how to proceed. One of the biggest questions on everyone’s mind is “Do I need a waiver for that?” In this section, we discuss COVID waivers: when they’re needed, and how to cover those risks.

Do I Need a New Liability Waiver for COVID?

First, you need to know that a standalone COVID waiver isn’t really necessary unless that’s the only reason you have a waiver. For most businesses in the adventure travel industry, waivers are already part of the process, and it’s not necessary to have separate waivers to cover specific risks.

So, what does that mean for participants that are currently booked? Don’t I need a new waiver for them to sign? Well, think about the purpose of having your participants sign a new waiver. Is it to educate them about COVID-related risks or is it to shield you from liability? If it's to protect your business, then take a look at your current waiver. It likely already says what you need it to.

If you want to educate the traveler about potential COVID risks, then you don't necessarily need to do that in a waiver. You could do it in your custom materials, like emails. You could put it on your website. There are numerous ways you can notify them that don’t require a signature. Just be sure to consult your attorney about it.

Do I Need to Update My Liability Waiver for COVID?

“So,” you ask, “If I don’t need a separate waiver, should I update my current one?” Again, your best course of action is to refer to your current waiver.

A lot of people are getting into very specific questions about coronavirus, but in writing a waiver, you typically want it to be evergreen; that means, other than risks that are unique to your business (like the risk of a parachute not opening when you’re skydiving), you won’t want to zoom in too far when detailing risks.

The goal, as already mentioned, is to create a waiver that holds up even as circumstances change. For example, COVID is the current concern, but what if five years from now, there’s a new pandemic? You don’t want to have to change your waiver for every new illness that comes about. You want your waiver to be as valid 20 years from now as it is today.

So, look at your current waiver and make sure that it covers coronavirus type risks (i.e. concerns about infectious diseases) in a general way. If it doesn't, then you'll want to update your waiver to make sure that it covers things like illness, viruses, pandemics, no matter if it's coronavirus or something else. If it does, then you’re probably already protected as well as you can be from the pandemic.

Other Sections:

Key Components of a Liability Waiver

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 06:13:03 GMT

Key Components of a Liability Waiver

Chun T. Wright
Washington DC-based attorney and former prosecutor at the US Attorney's Office, Chun serves as legal counsel to businesses across the country.

There are six key components that go into a liability waiver to make it a solid agreement. If some of these are overlooked or not included in your liability waiver, you may find yourself running into some substantial problems in the future. In this section, we'll provide a quick summary of those key sections so that you have a better idea of what to include in your liability waiver.

Inherent Risks

First, you want to declare the risks inherent in the activity. Really think about what type of risks your particular activities entail. Every risk relevant to the activity needs to be included, and irrelevant ones need to be avoided. A misstep here can leave a pretty gaping loophole, legally speaking.

What you're trying to do is to remove bases that can be used to make claims like a) I was not informed of every risk inherent in the activity or b) the waiver was not a good representation of the risks involved (since it included "risks" that weren't relevant to the activity).

Acknowledgment And Voluntary Assumption Of Risk

Next, you need the waiver to state that the signer is aware of the risks (as you've explained them in the waiver), and that they voluntarily accept them. Without this, they can still claim that they didn't know the risks, or that they never said they were ok with the risks.

After that, you need a release clause in the waiver. This is the part where it actually states that your business doesn't carry the burden of liability in the event of harm. More than anywhere else in the waiver, you need the language to be clear here. You want people to really understand what rights they're giving away, and if you try to soften the language, make it less conspicuous, or otherwise be less direct, you can run into problems.

Just understand that when a court scrutinizes the language and your waiver is not clear, or if it's sort of hidden, that's going to cut against you. The more direct and understandable you can be, the better.

Release Clause

Inde mnification Clause

Liability waivers also, typically, have an indemnification clause. This is where a traveler agrees that they will be required to agree to pay for your defense costs as a company if they do anything that causes you to be sued. This serves as a further deterrent to lawsuits, as few travelers can afford to pay for both their legal fees and those of their opponent in court should they lose.

Forum Selection Or Venue Clause

Another important provision is a forum selection (also known as a venue clause). This is often an oversight by companies, but if you're doing business with international travelers and a dispute happens, the first question any lawyer will ask is "Where can the lawsuit be brought?"

There are a number of factors that go into that determination, but one is, did the parties contractually agree to a particular place in a particular form? Arbitration versus court, what geography, what law will govern, all those sorts of things need to be determined during a dispute, but that can be done beforehand by including it in the waiver.

Successors And Assigns

Another tip on releases is to make sure that in your release language that your successors and assigns are listed as parties against whom travelers are waiving their rights. Waiver clauses often fail to include successors and assigns, a fact that can cause headaches for whoever takes over your company after you.

Without a successors and assigns clause, if you sell your company, that waiver may not apply to the company that purchased it. Likewise, if you convert your entity into something else, that converted entity may not be covered either. So, be sure that the successors and assigns language is in the liability waiver or release.

Make The Liability Waiver A Standalone Document

Finally, you want to make sure that your waiver is clear and conspicuous by putting it into a standalone document if you can. A lot of companies don't like that. They feel like they don't want to scare away people, but that's actually the very point.

You can't completely eliminate disputes, so the next-best thing is discouraging them. Having a separate document does that in two ways. First, it screens out customers that are intimidated by having to sign multiple legal documents. Second, it puts all the information about the inherent risks in its own place, so it's more conspicuous and harder to ignore (which will also weed out customers unwilling to accept the risks).

Bottom line: a standalone waiver holds up in court much better than a waiver that's embedded within another form (like terms and conditions).

Other Sections:

Electronic Waivers at The Westin Annapolis

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 06:00:01 GMT

Electronic Hotel Waivers

Stephen Porritt

Here at WaiverSign, we love hearing the success stories of our clients—learning about the great work they do, and how digital waivers help them do it easier. And to be honest, our favorite part of the job is when we see our product really work for a client. So, when we get positive feedback from the businesses that use our system, we can’t help but hold it up for everyone on the internet to see.

In that spirit, here’s the feedback we received from William Grace of The Westin Annapolis in Maryland.

Electronic Waivers At The Westin Annapolis

An easily recognized fixture of downtown Annapolis, Maryland, The Westin Annapolis offers luxury comforts to those who visit the city. They offer hotel services to travelers, conference room services to local businesses, and event hosting services in their Capital Ballroom.

Their need for electronic waivers is primarily COVID-based. “We are using WaiverSign to sign digital waivers based on COVID guidelines and general rules,” Mr. Grace states. He explains that they use WaiverSign to help with guest lists for events in the conference rooms and the ballroom, and that the system has made things “...very simple and easy…” for him and his staff.

“It’s great to have the option to export to an Excel spreadsheet for check-in procedures,” he says, “And the online waiver signing process has helped ease my workload during COVID, which used to require numerous emails to get signed waivers. I can also access those waivers in an easier format, and my clients can too.”

When asked what the best part about WavierSign was, he said “It’s the ability to associate guests to a specific event name, so we can cross-reference that list against the guest list on the day of the event.”

It’s great to see that WaiverSign’s electronic signature system has made our client’s life a little easier.

Paperless. Contactless. Hassle-less. That’s WaiverSign .

How Digital Waivers Help Chalo Africa

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 05:33:06 GMT

Stephen Porritt

How Digital Waivers Help Share Adventure with Guests

We’re pretty passionate about adventure. In fact, WaiverSign was originally conceived to help Western River Expeditions and Moab Adventure Center provide a better guest experience to travelers looking for adventure on the water or in the desert.

That’s why we were so elated to hear that our digital waiver system was helping Chalo Africa offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences to guests eager to experience the beauty of Africa. It’s the kind of success story that just begs to be shared, so we’re putting it here where everyone can see.

The Digital Waiver Factor

So how does WaiverSign fit into all of this? Well, we answered a very critical need. Tanvi explains:

“Prior to discovering WaiverSign, we at Chalo Africa struggled with ensuring all our guests had signed our Terms & Conditions and Waivers. We received an innumerable number of documents in various formats: hard copies, soft copies, PDFs, JPGs, and even email attachments.

“It had become very difficult to consolidate and keep track of all our guest documentation, and guests too found it very cumbersome to go through our documentation. WaiverSign was the online waiver solution to solve this.

“We now send one link to our guests and we are done! Guests can easily put their signatures to the documents online, we get immediate updates as to who has signed the documents, and tools like IP tracking ensures that everything is secure.”

Chalo Africa finds the same value in the digital waiver process that we did from the very beginning: a smoother customer experience, and thus, much happier guests.

“There is definitely an uptick in ease of use,” Tanvi says. “This best part of the digital waiver signing process is the fact that we have had no complaints from our guests! It has made the lives of our guests simpler, and in turn, made our lives much simpler.

“Also, due to the turmoil COVID has caused, we have had to constantly update our Terms & Conditions as well. WaiverSign makes it easy to update T&Cs without updating complicated PDFs.”

When we asked her what she and her team liked best about the service, Tanvi had this to say:

“What we love about WaiverSign is the ability to combine different documents into a single link. Guests can sign each document separately which ensures legal validity, but the format itself is so straightforward that everyone loves it. We also love the fact that guardians can sign on behalf of children in a very easy manner.”

Looking Forward To The Future

Legal documents like waivers and terms and conditions are an integral part of the business for those in the travel and tourism industry. Most couldn’t survive without them. But the burdens and frustrations that come with paper waivers are just about the worst part of the job. They slow processes, irritate guests and staff alike, and ultimately, present a significant bottleneck when trying to scale the business.

At WaiverSign , we feel very lucky to be part of the global tourism community, and nothing makes us happier than getting to work with brands like Chalo Africa (and maybe make life just a little easier for them).

Just as Tanvi’s team will certainly be pressing forward toward new adventures and new opportunities, we’ll be here , doing our best to make life as easy as it should be , for them and

businesses like them.

Paperless. Contactless. Hassle-less. That’s WaiverSign .

The Backstory

For such an adventurous endeavor, Chalo Africa has some pretty humble beginnings.

It all started with an exciting road trip back in 2012. While family members and future co-founders Smita Srivastava, Sangeeta Prasad, and Tanvi Srivastava were “losing ourselves on unknown roads,” they were having the time of their lives. Amidst all the fun and laughter, an idea was formed: “We loved spending time with each other,” recalls Tanvi, “So why not work together?”

The decision was made quickly, and unanimously. But what kind of business needs a zoologist (Smita), a multi-lingual interpreter (Sangeeta), and a recently graduated design and technology expert (Tanvi)? As it turns out, finding common ground was easier than you might expect.

“We had complementary skills,” states Tanvi, and indeed they did. Smita and Sangeeta both brought ample wisdom from their own fields—the former had been teaching for several decades, and the latter had been visiting Africa for years. Tanvi, meanwhile, brought her tech skills to the table—something they would definitely need to run a business in the digital age.

They decided to focus on things that really mattered to them. “We had a passion for wildlife, travel, and the continent of Africa,” says Tanvi. So they decided to share those passions with the world. There was only one hitch...

“I'd like to say we had some grand plan before we started Chalo Africa,” admits Tanvi. “But the truth is that we fell headlong into it, knowing very little about the travel industry.”

It didn’t keep them from pursuing their passion. They founded the business and began offering their one-of-a-kind experiences to international travelers, their knowledge-base growing as business boomed and their team grew. “When Malvika joined us a few years later with actual experience in the tourism sector, it was quite a relief!” Tanvi says.

It also helped that Sangeeta had been laying the groundwork for the business for years with her regular treks across the vast continent.

“Sangeeta, who happens to be my aunt, was spending all of her time and most of her income on planning African safaris,” Tanvi explains. “My uncle, somewhat exasperated, suggested that she might as well take this up as a full-time vocation, little realizing how seriously his words would be taken.”

So how are they doing now?

“The stars somehow aligned,” Tanvi says, “And we have created a successful brand that focuses exclusively on African safaris and expeditions. Here we are, almost a decade later, battling COVID with our spirits high, knowing that we are strong together and we will come out on the other side with more ground to cover, more experiences to gain.”

How They Do It

Chalo Africa’s story isn’t just inspiring because of how they got started. In fact, the most impressive part is how they continue to forge onward every day in spite of serious challenges.

So, how do they keep the ship afloat amid adversity? “To be honest, when we started out, it was not easy,” Tanvi says. “We didn't have any external funding.” That hasn’t stopped them. They just rolled up their sleeves and went to work “[creating] a travel brand through our own sweat and determination.”

Today, they continue to provide amazing experiences to all of their guests. “We are an intimate family-run organisation and we like to treat our guests as though they are a part of our family,” says Tanvi. “We know that an African safari is an experience of a lifetime for many of our guests, and hence every interaction with a member of our team represents a future memory, something that needs to be cherished.”

Setting Themselves Apart

In the past eight years, the team at Chalo Africa has applied hard work and tenacity and has accomplished a great deal as a result. But that’s not the only reason they stand out. In fact, there’s quite a bit that makes Chalo Africa a unique tour operator, even among African safaris.

Here’s what Tanvi has to say:

“We specialise in near-impossible expeditions to the remotest parts of Africa: from the deserts of Ennedi in Chad to the interiors of Gabon. These expeditions are difficult to organize with little to no tourism infrastructure. We therefore consider ourselves pioneers in bringing a connection between such pristine wilderness and our guests, hoping that with tourism, conservation to such regions will flourish.”

Tanvi, Smita, Sangeeta, and the rest of the team at Chalo Africa are doing more than pioneering exotic safaris. They’re also championing conservation efforts, supporting local African businesses, and they’re leading by example when it comes to employment for women.

“Being a business staffed entirely by women,” Tanvi says, “we appreciate the dual lives that women lead: as homemakers and mothers, but also as talented women with skills to showcase to the world. We offer flexible hours, extended maternity leave policies, and love it when a baby pops up on a video call during our team meetings!”

At its core though, the company is a family operation, one that thrives on the close connections they all share.

“Working together as a family also has its challenges but an innumerable number of advantages. It's a lovely way to bond across time zones and territories.”

Improve the way that you use digital waivers

Chip Broyles

Digital signature collection is here to stay. From Photo and Media Releases, to Releases of Liability, when it comes to signatures, there are basically three key things you should look for in a solution like WaiverSign: How do I collect digital waivers onsite? How do I find and verify waivers? How do I store and manage digital waivers?

How do I collect digital waivers onsite?

Do you have participants or guests that show up onsite and need to sign a Release of Liability waiver or other important documents prior to engaging in an event or activity? Then you’ll appreciate WaiverSign’s built in kiosk functionality which helps facilitate those types of in-person signing experiences. This is just one of the many ways that you can leverage WaiverSign to gather required signatures.

Created with the customer experience in mind , WaiverSign efficiently guides the user through the signing process, all while anticipating the potential real-life scenarios that could creep in and draw someone’s attention away from completion.

The normal signing process in WaiverSign, which a guest would experience before arriving onsite, allows them to take as much time as they need to read the document, add their required information and details to the form, and then agree to and apply their signature to the document.

When the signing process is accessed through KIOSK-MODE , onsite at your business, a built in timer is added which automatically restarts the signing process if there is 20 seconds of inactivity. Before restarting, a modal pops up asking the signer if they need more time. A simple click of a button allows them to continue, but if there’s no response from the user, back to the beginning it goes. This is important for two reasons. First, it provides a better user experience for the next guest, and perhaps more importantly, it removes any sensitive personal information that the previous user may have entered on the screen.

In addition to WaiverSign’s built-in digital waiver kiosk functionality, you also can also use it in conjunction with any number of downloadable kiosk applications built specifically for tablets, such as Kiosk Pro for iOS devices , or Kiosk Browser for Android. These applications allow you to lock down your tablet so the user is unable to surf the internet using your device.

Keep in mind, if you ever need to make updates to your document, the fact that it’s being accessed through KIOSK-MODE or a kiosk application won’t affect anything. You’ll simply log into your WaiverSign account through your web browser, make the necessary updates to your document, and then save and re-publish. The next person that signs that document will see the updates that you made.

How do I find and verify waivers?

Gone are the days of searching hopelessly through piles of papers, stacked up in boxes, in some musty old barn or basement. Finding a PDF copy of a signed waiver couldn’t be easier with WaiverSign’s built in waiver location features.

Collecting signatures from customers and guests is usually about protecting the interests of your company. Working with a qualified lawyer, who can draft the proper wording you need is important, but finding a waiver, should you ever need to, will be just as important in protecting your assets.

WaiverSign’s document retrieval system was built to be flexible , meaning you can leverage many different pieces of information to search for, find, and produce a document. First Name, Last Name, Email Address and Phone Number, among other things, can be used to find the personal info and document you need. Almost instantly, you could find and produce a signed document that would have potentially taken you hours to find, if not weeks, back in the old days of files and boxes.

WaiverSign also takes finding a waiver to a whole new level with Event Management functionality that most other systems don’t even consider. Many of WaiverSign’s clients have a single document that all of their customers or guests sign. Sometimes, however, they have a particular event or activity, such as a ‘fun run’ or group activity, that they need to keep track of as a single signing group. A unique signing link can be generated and shared with a large group of people. Then all the people who sign a document using that link will be organized into a single, searchable group.

Event coordinators love this feature! It not only provides a convenient way to find and export an up-to-date list of signers, it also comes with a notification feature which lets the coordinator of that group know every time someone signs. Additionally, the coordinator has access to a live up-to-date list, which shows the name of everyone that has completed the signing process for that particular event. This is an invaluable tool that our clients simply can’t live without!

The world is filled with software solutions that help you manage everything from grocery lists, to taxes, to who your friends are and what pictures you want to share with them. But an underlying question, it may be important to remember, when leveraging some of these solutions, is who owns the data?

At WaiverSign, the data, along with the signatures you collect, is 100% yours to own and manage how you see fit. Just like the wording in the document you present to your customers and guests, we simply provide tools to help you manage it.

We don’t believe in long-term commitments or contracts here at WaiverSign. We believe that if you have a product that provides the service you need, you’ll continue to use it. If at any point you want to download and store the information and documents you’ve gathered from your signing guests, or print paper copies of the PDF document itself, we believe that you should have the right to do that.

Our Contact Information Export pulls all data gathered about both participants, as well as guardians, and exports them in an easy to store .csv file. Copies of the documents are exported as .pdf files, organized together in a .zip file.

While it’s certainly much easier to search for and find a particular document using the tools already built into WaiverSign, many of our clients prefer to also have copies of their documents stored locally on a hard drive for personal or legal reasons. For this reason, each individual PDF has a title that includes the signer’s first and last name, as well as the date and time the document was signed.

Bottom line, the information you gather from your signing guests is your data, and you have access to it whenever, and wherever, you need it .

How do I store and manage digital waivers?

Electronic Rental Liability Waivers

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 05:24:02 GMT

Rental Liability Waivers To Protect Your Assets

Kate Tucker

I recently spoke with a boat rental company on the west coast and a lot of our conversation revolved around the fact that they have to spend a lot of time and money in small claims court because people flat out wreck their rental equipment and boats. I’m not talking about a small kayak or a SUP but actual pontoon boats, jet-skis and good sized motor boats. Customers renting boats run boats aground, crash into things on the water, completely bottom out motors in the sand and at times run into one another while boating--which by the way is insane to me! As the conversation progressed I couldn’t help but think about how important a rental liability waiver is to protect your company, your rules, and in this case property and lives.

Transitioning from a paper waiver to an electronic waiver is very easy to do with WaiverSign. A first step would always be to check with your attorney or insurance about the legality of going digital within your state. Even though all 50 states and many portions of the world recognize and accept a digital electronic signature, it’s always good to make sure you’re on the same page as the people who protect and have your business’ best interests in check. The next step is to email us your liability waiver and logo. We’ll set up a demo account so that you can check out how everything works. You will have full access to the account and can make any edits that you would like. You can also create additional waivers, work on the brand settings, add additional users within your organization, and sign a waiver yourself to see how easy the digital signing process really is.

The WaiverSign interface is very user-friendly and I often hear the comment,

“I’m not sure why it’s taken me so long to go digital with my waivers, because this is so easy.”

Your signed rental liability waivers are easy to access, you can set up events if you want to highlight certain dates and events. You can make it very easy for people to sign on their mobile phones, tablets, and computers as well. You won’t even have to email a copy of the signed waiver to your customer because WaiverSign does that automatically for you. No need to jump the jetty...just go digital with your waivers, simplify your waiver signing process with electronic signatures and go for it!

Personal Trainer and Gym Waivers

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 06:12:55 GMT

Gyms, Personal Trainers, and Waivers

Stephen Porritt

If you’re a personal trainer or the owner of a gym, you face some unique challenges in your line of work. Your customers and clientele are paying you to participate in activities that, if you were paying them, would fall under OSHA regulations. Working out is like a laundry list of job hazards:

Repetitive motions
Lifting heavy objects
Sustained physical exertion
Pushing strength and stamina boundaries
Rapid movements

Throw in a missing wet floor sign, and you've got an exciting day for a safety inspector.

So how do you keep people from getting injured and keep your business from getting sued? It's easier said than done, but there are ways to mitigate the risks both to them, and to you.

How To Manage The Risks

The first step is making things as safe as possible for your clientele. Now, this looks a little different depending on whether you're a gym owner (who provides the location and the equipment) or a personal trainer (who puts the equipment to use), so let’s break it down along those lines.

Managing Risks for a Gym

With a few rare exceptions (like group classes, personal trainer services, and the like), gym staff members aren’t usually in a position to encourage safer workout habits. You won’t be showing them how to deadlift without hurting their back or reminding them to stretch before and after cardio.

What you will be doing is providing a safe environment for your patrons. Just as a manufacturing plant has to take steps to make sure the plant is safe to work in, you have to make sure that the gym is safe to workout in.

The basics are probably pretty obvious:

Clean up spills quickly, so no one slips
Keep equipment maintained, so none of it breaks while being used
Make sure the floor is picked up, so there are no trip hazards
Make sure things that should be padded are padded
Make sure the gym is well lit

But some precautions are less obvious:

Sanitize equipment regularly (especially handles) to curb the spread of disease
Keep a bodily fluid cleanup kit stocked in case of vomit, urine, or blood
Keep a first aid kit on hand in case of injuries

Bottom line: if you wouldn't ignore it at home, don't ignore it at your gym.

Personal trainers effectively have to do the opposite. Since you deal directly with the client as they do the exercises, you have to be a little more, well personal with your efforts to prevent injuries.

The good news is that most of what’s required for that job, you're likely already doing. This includes showing them how to do the exercises properly and correcting mistakes as they go, spotting them when they lift weights, and so on. Really, there's only one thing you need to be especially careful with, and that's how far you push your clients.

There are a lot of factors that impact an individual’s physical abilities—their medical history, their baseline level of activity, their age, their gender, their mood, their sleep habits, even what they've eaten that day. Some people perform better as sprinters, while others do better at sustained exertion. Some do better with increased resistance and weights, while others are less muscular and more flexible.

In other words, each client probably needs a fair amount of evaluation to determine what's too far, and what’s not far enough. You're likely much better equipped to do that than we are. You probably know far more about exercise science than we ever will, but what you might not know is just how easy an injury from overexertion can turn into a business-ending lawsuit.

So what can be done to protect your business legally after you've done all you can to protect your clients physically? And what can gyms do to limit their liability should some yay-hoo start hefting weights around in a very irresponsible fashion?

Simple: make your clients sign liability waivers.

Managing Risks for a Personal Trainer

What Is A Liability Waiver?

A liability waiver, sometimes called a "release of liability" or "release form," is a document that outlines the relevant risks involved in a particular endeavor, and asks signers to acknowledge that they know and accept these risks by putting their name on a dotted line.

In other words, it's a document where people say "unless something really weird happens, I 'waive' the right to sue you should something go wrong."

Waivers are pretty handy, and they're used in a variety of industries to cover lots of different kinds of risks. It's used in the adventure travel industry, where zipline and bungee jumping operators have participants sign in case of physical injury. They're used in the racing industry in case a driver crashes. They're used by moving companies in case stuff gets damaged in transit.

Most relevant to our current discussion, they're also used in the fitness industry in case of belligerent barbells, or in case a rowing machine goes rogue.

The basics of waivers are this: they offer businesses a level of protection from liability, and they (if they’re good) are unique to both the business and the activity.

Side note: getting a "good" waiver isn’t as simple as pulling a template off the internet. It requires input from a lawyer, preferably one who’s familiar with the ins and outs of your specific industry. More on this below.

WHAT ABOUT HARASSMENT?

For both gyms and personal trainers, there's a lot of opportunities for interactions that can be interpreted as harassment, of one form or another.

For example, at a gym, if an individual feels like they've been insulted or mistreated about their weight, it can quickly become a problem. And you don't just have to worry about your staff—if other patrons are, well, patronizing someone, it’s possible your gym could be held liable for facilitating the environment where the harassment happened.

The same goes for sexual harassment. If a patron is subject to repeated, inappropriate advances from staff or other patrons, it can likewise create some legal trouble for you.

For personal trainers, it gets even worse. If, for example, you're trying to adjust a client’s stance while doing an exercise, and you touch them on their legs or hips in a way they find inappropriate, they might lay a sexual harassment charge at your feet.

Part of the problem here is that people tend to feel a little vulnerable while working out. While there are some who don't feel self-conscious about their bodies while in the gym, plenty of patrons feel the weight of negative body image, low self-esteem, and the more revealing nature of typical workout attire.

As a result, the impact of aggressive or critical language (even if intended to motivate) can be more dramatic. These feelings of vulnerability only amplify the discomfort caused by actions that count as (or could be misconstrued as) sexual harassment. And since this is all dependent upon how the person feels (which is outside your control), you'll want some protection for your business.

Now, waivers aren't really designed to protect against willful offenses (and it wouldn’t be fair to the victim if they were), but they do help mitigate liability for incidents that were unintentional, harmless, or outside your control. In other words, you'll probably want to consider having a waiver with verbiage aimed at addressing these concerns.

Do Personal Trainers And Gyms Need Waivers?

When you really get down to brass tacks, waivers have a single job: prove to the court that the person who signed it knew and accepted the risks before doing business with you. Whether or not you use waivers depends on whether you want a claim like "I didn't know this could happen" to get any traction in court.

That’s not to say that waivers are foolproof. If a judge determines that there was negligence, that the claim falls outside of the purview of the waiver, or something on those lines, the waiver won't help you. What a waiver can do, though, is keep a common incident (like a twisted ankle or a sprained back) from becoming a major legal problem.

Injuries aren't your only concerns, though. There are a few other types of risks that you’ll want protection from, and best practice is to have a separate waiver for each. Let’s take a look at what they are.

Non-Injury Considerations

A relatively recent concern (though it feels like forever by now, doesn't it?) is that of the Coronavirus. Pretty much from the initial outbreak, the virus has been throwing wrenches into business concerns left and right . Now that even gyms are starting to reopen, businesses are forced to face the cargo load of risk that comes with operating during the pandemic, and many are wondering if they need a waiver to cover those risks as a result.

While we certainly recommend a waiver for this purpose, we need to add the caveat that these waivers aren't always effective at protecting businesses. A lot of it depends on where your business is located—laws vary by state and by country, and waivers that fly with one judge may flop with another.

What we're saying is that this is all new legal territory, and courts and lawmakers are still figuring things out. A waiver isn't a guarantee of protection right now, but it's a lot better than nothing. Our advice: talk to a legal expert, and get their help drafting a waiver with COVID-specific language. Then take proper safety precautions , and have people sign your waiver to cover your bases.

WHAT ABOUT COVID?

WHAT ABOUT INSURANCE?

At this point, a few of you may be wondering "Why do I need waivers when I have insurance?" It’s a good question. After all, why go through all the trouble of putting together waivers if insurance will just cover everything?

Liability waivers and liability insurance have different purposes, though. Gym and personal trainer waivers are intended to prevent legal problems caused by the normal operation of the business. Insurance is designed to help cover the loss incurred by resolving the valid liability concerns of patrons.

Here's a good way to think of it. If a gym patron hurts his back from lifting weights improperly, a previously signed waiver will prevent him from suing the gym for "injuring" him. If, on the other hand, a poorly maintained, out-of-control treadmill speeds up to 60 mph and toss him across the room, insurance will help you pay for his medical bills.

You’re gonna want to have both, is what we’re saying, since lacking either can really cost you.

This won't take long to explain, but it's a very important question. See, a lot of businesses take the easy way out. They do a Google search for a waiver template, find one that kinda fits, change the name of the business, print it out, and call it good. If that was your plan immediately after finishing this article, we regret to inform you that it's not a very good idea.

Remember when we mentioned that the best waivers are unique to the business and unique to the activity? We weren't kidding. Filing the serial numbers off of somebody else’s template opens up a lot of legal loopholes people can use to sue your business.

If the signer (also called a "releasor") can prove to a judge that your waiver covers things that are irrelevant to your business (like, say, the risk of consuming food contaminated by an allergen, like peanuts), or that there are things it should cover that it doesn't (like the risk of dropping a weight on your foot), the judge can throw the waiver out for being a poor representation of the actual risks involved with the activity.

Once that happens, just about anything is fair game.

Your best bet is to consult with a lawyer, preferably one that knows the fitness industry. Sure, it's a bit of an investment upfront, but having a waiver that's actually tailored to your business puts you in a much safer position, liability-wise. A stock waiver may mitigate your liabilities, but it'll be a very costly mistake if it doesn't.

How Do I Get My Waivers?

Finally, we have the issue of paper waivers. Paper waivers have a number of really irritating disadvantages, including:

They take physical space to store (and requires more space as you get new customers)
You have to print physical copies
If you run out of copies, you have to go print more in order to get anything done
Finding information that's on a waiver requires sifting through all of them
If your waivers aren’t organized properly, the task of finding a waiver becomes much harder
Waivers that are signed by hand are often a lot harder to read
Signers can manipulate paper waivers (writing stuff in, crossing stuff out), and this lack of document integrity can really undermine its legitimacy
There are a lot of opportunities to pass the Coronavirus with all the passing of pens and paper

Any of those sound appealing? We didn’t think so, and we’d like to offer a solution. Digital waivers are a thing now, allowing people to sign electronically, even from the comfort of their own home. It’s contactless, it’s environmentally friendly (since you’re not killing so many trees), and it makes it a lot easier to track things like demographic data.

Now, there are a number of brands on the market that offer this solution. Each one has it’s pros and cons , and if we told you that WaiverSign (which is our solution) worked for everybody our pants would catch fire (because, you know, we'd be...liar liars).

But we do have a solid solution , and if we've at all convinced you of the importance of waivers, then we invite you to start your search for a solution with us. And if the features of our system don’t exactly line up with your needs, we can help you find a digital waiver system that does.

So get in touch with us , and let’s talk about your "risky business." We'd be happy to help you put waivers to work for you.

Does It Have To Be On Paper?

Smartwaiver vs.WaiverSign

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 16:54:47 GMT

Stephen Porritt

WaiverSign vs. Smartwaiver

As human beings, we tend to compare things a lot. We compare cars, we compare hairstyles, and we compare a lot of other things we're not going to mention here. This is especially true when we’re buying things for our business.

Nobody wants to buy a dud of a product, and no one wants to overpay for a service they need, not when those costs come directly out of your profits. So we compare to find the best value.

Well today, we're going to make the comparison a little easier for you, at least for two online waiver solutions on the market: Smartwaiver and WaiverSign.

" Smartwaiver and WaiverSign are similar solutions that offer the same basic functionality—where they differ is in the UI and in supplemental functionality.

Smartwaiver and WaiverSign are similar solutions that offer the same basic functionality—they allow you to make your waivers digital so that they can be signed electronically from anywhere. Where they differ is in the user interface (UI) and in supplemental functionality.

In this article, we're doing a deep dive into the differences between the two. That way, you'll know which of the two better meets your company's needs.

Drafting and Editing Documents

Let's start with the core functionality of both systems: the creation of digital documents. Both Smartwaiver and WaiverSign start by offering to convert your first waiver to a digital document as a free service. WaiverSign does this so you can see your waiver in action (how it’s going to look with your logo, background branding colors, and so forth), and the idea is the same with Smartwaiver.

"Both Smartwaiver and WaiverSign can convert your first waiver for you.

As for creating additional documents for you, Smartwaiver doesn't advertise this as an available service. WaiverSign, on the other hand, can create additional documents for you at a cost of $25 per document (a one-time charge added to your monthly bill). That way, users who don’t have the time or inclination to create their own documents via the editor can have the WaiverSign support team create the documents for them.

"WaiverSign can create additional digital documents for $25 per document.

Speaking of document editors, both WaiverSign and Smartwaiver have them. This is important because some online waiver solutions don't allow you to create or edit your own documents; only their support staff can do it.

Additionally, both platforms allow you to do things like:

Customize the age of majority
Add custom fields and questions
Require accept/decline or initials throughout the document
Set waivers to expire, and customize the expiration date
Customize waivers to include your own branding on the document

Both WaiverSign and Smartwaiver allow you to store an unlimited number of waiver "templates" (the industry term for unsigned digital documents). And both offer functionality in multiple languages. For both waiver systems , you can select English, Spanish, or French as the document language. If you'd like it in a different language, they can facilitate that, but you'll have to supply the translations.

A quick note: Smartwaiver mentions Dutch as an option on their website, but the app itself doesn't actually have that functionality. Their support documentation likewise doesn't mention Dutch, so perhaps it's a feature that's still under development.

Beyond that, though, we get into the philosophical differences between the two solutions. Smartwaiver has some additional functionality (which we discuss below), but their user interface is a little cumbersome as a result (more on this later). WaiverSign lacks a few of the customization features that Smartwaiver has, but the document editor is easier to use.

"Smartwaiver has some additional functionality, but WaverSign's document editor is easier to use.

Here are the cool things that Smartwaiver can do, for those who are looking for extra functionality.

Question Flagging

You can set questions and fields to be "flagged" in the system for specific answers, or for having any answer other than a null value. This makes flagged waivers stand out when you're looking through the list and can be used to alert you of food allergies, for example.

Video Embedding

You can embed videos directly into your waiver, allowing you to require people to watch safety videos, training videos, or maybe just a meme compilation you think the whole world needs to see. In order to benefit from this feature, though, you'll have to contact support (an ordeal in its own right; more on that later).

Multiple Signatures

While both Smartwaiver and WaiverSign allow you to sprinkle required accept/decline and initial boxes throughout the document, only Smartwaiver allows you to add more places where a full signature is required. WaiverSign only has the final signature at the end of the document.

Minor Signatures

You can also require a participating minor to sign in addition to the required signature of a parent or guardian.

So that’s the skinny on how document creation works for both platforms. Now let’s talk about what you can do with all the information those documents collect.

Data and Analytics

One of the biggest advantages of online waivers is how it allows you to analyze (and, from there, improve) your business's sales numbers.

"With paper waivers, either you're not collecting data like demographic information, or if you are, it's on paper.

With paper waivers, either you're not collecting data like demographic information, or if you are, it's on paper, so it’s not very easy to crunch the numbers. On the other hand, if the information is already digital, it's a lot easier to get insight into business trends. And if you're collecting the right data, and using the right analytics tools, you can really drill down in the hard numbers.

Smartwaiver and WaiverSign both know this, and so they've built functionality into their systems that facilitate easy collection and analysis of information. Essentially every input field in a given waiver is something that can be tracked in either system and with both WaiverSign and Smartwaiver offering unlimited custom fields and questions, there's virtually no limit to the number of things you can track with your online waivers.

"Every input field in a given waiver is something that can be tracked.

After you've collected all that data, you’ve got to put it somewhere. Both WaiverSign and Smartwaiver advertise "secure storage." Smartwaiver doesn't elaborate on exactly what that means for them, but we’re guessing it's something similar to what we do.

For us, data collected using our system is " secured via SSL, OAuth 2.0, Amazon Web Services Cloud Storage and other top-end security protocols ."

"WaiverSign's system is secured via SSL, OAuth 2.0, Amazon Web Services Cloud Storage and other top-end security protocols.

Another thing that both platforms agree on is who should "own" your data. Smartwaiver and WaiverSign both advertise that the data belongs to you. You can export it wholesale whenever you want, and do whatever you want with it. If you stop using the service, both will delete your data from their servers, so only you get to keep it.

Now, collecting and storing information is good, but it doesn't help much if you can't see all that data. That's why both Smartwaiver and WaiverSign have some tools that enable you to find what you’re looking for.

Search Functionality

It all starts with the search function. If you're looking for a specific waiver or a specific participant, this is how you do it. Both WaiverSign and Smartwaiver have a search function. With Smartwaiver, you can search by:

First name
Last name
Date of birth
Email address
Tags (more on this in a second)

WaiverSign allows you to search by:

First name
Last name
Email address
Custom field answers

Each of the platforms has functionality that the other doesn't. With Smartwaiver, it's their "tag" function. Waivers can be "tagged" with a keyword (almost like a hashtag), and then they can be searched by those tags.

WaiverSign, on the other hand, can search by custom field answers. Specifically, you can choose a custom field or question, and then search for specific answers to that question. For example, you might have a custom field that asks for a participant's license number, certification ID, or some other unique identifier. You can then use the WaiverSign search functionality to locate that particular custom field response, and then open the corresponding signed document.

"Smartwaiver allows you to 'tag' waivers. WaiverSign allows you to search by custom field answers.

Once you've found the waiver you’re looking for, both systems allow you to export the signed document as a PDF. Unfortunately, neither WaiverSign nor Smartwaiver has the capability to export PDFs of waiver templates (the unsigned forms), so you'll want to keep copies of the documents you convert to digital on hand.

Crunching the Numbers

Then there's the matter of analytics. Looking up individual waivers is great, but to really benefit from all this data, you need to be able to see trends. So how do we compare to Smartwaiver on that front?

Well, for starters, both digital waiver tools allow you to export your data as a CSV (comma-separated value) file. These files can then be opened in apps like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets, where you can then do things like:

Build tables of the data
Count waivers or participants based on a specified value
Filter and sort to organize entries by their responses and answers
Create graphs and charts from the data
Print reports of relevant data trends

It's all really valuable stuff, but it can take some doing and some expertise (that you may or may not have) to turn the raw data into something you can actually make business decisions with. So what you can do instead is upload that same CSV to a business intelligence tool.

These software platforms allow you to input your data, and then the tool takes care of the rest, turning it into something you can see at a glance. Graphs, charts, images, and more are created for you, and all the number crunching is done by the machine, taking the burden off of you.

"Ok," you say, "So you can do things with the data. But can’t the waiver app itself tell me anything?"

Yes, actually. This is where the analytics dashboard comes in. Both Smartwaiver and WaiverSign have them, and they can offer a little bit of perspective on your data. We say "little bit," because it doesn't show everything you might want to see. For example, in WaiverSign, you can see visual representations of the following tracked data points:

Participant age
Participant gender
Documents signed
Date of signature
Number of signatures per day
Number of document templates
Number of events
Number of trees saved

Smartwaiver’s dashboard adds a few additional values. It tracks:

Participant age
Participant Gender
Country of origin
State of origin
Zipcode of origin
Day that participant signed waivers
Day that participant checked in (more on this below)
Daily counts of waivers signed
Hour of the day that waiver was signed
Check-in count
Adults participating
Minors participating
Kiosk signings
Web-based signings

Smartwaiver's dashboard highlights a functionality that WaiverSign doesn't have. Participants who have signed waivers can be "checked in," marking that they actually arrived for the activity or event. This value can then be tracked by both the dashboard, and by the data that's exported to CSV file. You can even track the number of check-ins and check-in days.

The RESMARK Factor

Now you might be thinking by now that WaiverSign's a bit of a slouch in the analytics department, but that's not entirely true. In fact, nearly all of the things that Smartwaiver can do can be duplicated in the WaiverSign system, you just need the full RESMARK suite to make the most of it. Even the check-in function is something that RESMARK enables you to do.

Here's what we mean. Smartwaiver has a lot of these functionalities built-in because all they do is online waivers. They have to include the functionality in case you're only using their solution.

WaiverSign, on the other hand, is part of a larger toolset called RESMARK . It's an online reservation and marketing solution designed for booking tours, activities, and events. It includes marketing automation capabilities, and enables the management of distribution channels (like travel agents, concierges, and other resellers).

A large number of our WaiverSign users either are benefiting or could benefit from the whole suite of tools. Signing up for RESMARK opens up a lot of functionality, even within WaiverSign itself. Most relevant to our current data discussion is the enhanced analytics dashboard, and the ability to integrate with Google Analytics (which allows you to track online conversion rates, among other things).

"A lot of business that need a waiver solution could also benefit from the full suite of RESMARK booking and marketing functionality.

And speaking of integrations...

Device and Software Integrations

Integrations are another area where the philosophies behind each solution become apparent. Both WaiverSign and Smartwaiver offer a blend of internal solutions and 3rd-party integrations to solve common problems for online waiver users. But there's a bit of disagreement about which functionalities should be facilitated by internal solutions.

Smartwaiver is a dedicated waiver app, meaning they've focused all their efforts on filling out functionality to serve digital waiver customers (and only digital waiver customers). As mentioned above, WaiverSign is but a single tool within the larger RESMARK toolset, so its focus is broader rather than deeper.

"Smartwaiver serves just digital waiver customers, while WaiverSign can help you with booking, marketing automation, and distribution management.

Here’s the breakdown of four important functions.

Kiosk Apps

Having a kiosk at your location for guests to sign their waivers when they arrive can be a huge help when it comes to shortening check-in times. Walk-ins will need a way to sign their waivers, and even among those who pay ahead of time, there will always be a few waivers that slip through the cracks.

That's why both Smartwaiver and WaiverSign enable businesses to use kiosks for signing waivers. Smartwaiver, for example, has two dedicated kiosk apps (one for Android, one for iOS), allowing you to use mobile devices as kiosks.

"Smartwaiver has dedicated kiosk apps, but WaiverSign works with nearly every popular (and free) kiosk app.

WaiverSign, on the other hand, works with a host of popular 3rd-party kiosk apps, such as Kiosk Browser Lockdown and Kiosk Pro. By downloading and setting up one of these apps, you can provide kiosk functionality to your guests who still need to sign waivers when they arrive.

QR Codes

When it comes to producing and using QR codes, Smartwaiver is the one with the internal functionality, while WaiverSign again interfaces with 3rd-party apps. But it's important to note that they use QR codes to do different things.

WaiverSign provides QR codes for participants to scan as a way to direct them to the waiver they need to sign. Conversely, Smartwaiver enables their clients to scan QR codes on signed waivers as a way to check-in guests.

Here again, it's important to mention that the "check in" function that Smartwaiver has is something that WaiverSign can actually do. But because it's part of the RESMARK reservation system, it's a functionality of the whole toolset, rather than part of the WaiverSign standalone product.

Online Booking System

Now it's time for the two systems to switch sides. We've already mentioned that WaiverSign is part of a larger toolset. The primary function of the larger toolset—called RESMARK—is to provide online tour, activity, and event booking functionality. WaiverSign is built into RESMARK, so the two are fully integrated and share live information with each other.

This is probably WaiverSign's biggest strength—the fact that it’s part of a whole toolset. With RESMARK, you can embed online booking functionality directly on your website. You can send customers directly to the waivers they need to sign (as well as have them forward the links to additional party members who need to sign). And you can see who's signed in real-time.

"This is probably WaiverSign's biggest strength—the fact that it can do more than just waivers.

Smartwaiver, on the other hand, interfaces with a number of booking and reservation solutions. It doesn't interface with RESMARK though, only our competitors. That said, the integrations are pretty thorough; with some of them, you can even route customers through your booking process directly to your waivers.

Email Marketing

Finally, we have email marketing and marketing automation. Smartwaiver again outsources these tasks to 3rd-party solutions like Mailchimp, and unlike their integrations with online booking systems, the information isn't as close to real-time.

WaiverSign itself isn't built with marketing automation capabilities, but the larger RESMARK suite includes CruiseControl, a full-featured email marketing tool. With it, you can set up lead capture forms on your website, and then set up automated email campaigns that nurture those leads and encourage them to convert into customers.

"With WaiverSign's sister apps, you can set up lead capture forms on your website, then nurture those leads with automated emails.

Even once they've made a purchase, you can continue to send automated emails to remind guests what to bring, to remind them of their activity or event, and more. Lastly, once the activity is over, you can set up emails to go out to encourage guests to leave reviews on relevant social media sites, and to invite them to return to your business.

Final Thoughts on Integrations

Beyond these features, both Smartwaiver and WaiverSign are capable of online waiver links and email links. And both are capable of integrating directly with your website. Smartwaiver can embed the waivers directly into your site, and RESMARK can link up so that customers can book an activity without ever leaving your site.

Smartwaiver can also function offline, syncing all new information to your data in the cloud once you’re connected again. They also have a feature they call "WaiverSync" that allows you to set your cloud storage to automatically download signed waivers to a local device of your choosing.

"Smartwaiver has specialized, doubling down on their online waiver product. WaiverSign (which is part of RESMARK) is instead a one-stop-shop built to serve tour, activity, and event suppliers.

Ultimately, the two solutions approach integrations from opposing viewpoints. Smartwaiver has specialized, doubling down on their online waiver product. The downside here is that if you need other functionality (like marketing automation or online reservations), you have to pay for each of those separately.

RESMARK (and by extension WaiverSign) has been built to be a one-stop-shop, offering multiple core functionalities under one roof. The reason we did this is simple: most of our clients need the whole suite of tools, and paying for them all separately can be rather costly .

"RESMARK includes multiple business tools for a single price, and one that's much cheaper than paying for all of those tools separately.

We built tools that do the jobs of three or more separate solutions and gave them a price tag that's easy to swallow for everyone—from small tour operators to large adventure travel businesses operating at scale.

User Interface

Ok, that's how these systems play with others, but what's it like to use the waiver apps themselves?

Up until this point, there's been quite a bit of similarity between the two systems. The UI, however, is where we start seeing a real difference between Smartwaiver and WaiverSign. Yet again, this stems from a difference in the ideologies behind the software.

A Closer Look at Smartwaiver

Smartwaiver, for instance, has chosen to maximize the available functionality, packing in every feature they can to offer the broadest spectrum of what their users could possibly need. It's a strategy that's made them one of the most popular options for online waivers.

The downside to this strategy seems to be the slightly clunky UI for their document editor that they built to facilitate all the choices they've wanted to offer.

"Smartwaiver maximizes available functionality at the cost of some ease-of-use.

The Downside

Creating or editing a document is a process with multiple steps. The editor is broken up into several different sections, each on its own tab. Getting to the final "publish" button (which you have to hit before you can see the document all put together) requires stepping through six other tabs first, making your selections regarding what you want in the waiver and how you want it to look.

Whenever you open a template up again to edit it, you're presented with the same six tabs (seven, if you count the publish tab), and you may have to dig a little to find the options you’re looking for.

The Upside

Smartwaiver has a lot of default features that open up a lot of possibilities for customization. In the spirit of transparency and honesty, we've put them all together in a list. Smartwaiver:

Has an option allowing you to set an age at which a minor’s waiver expires
Has an option to require a participating minor to sign (in addition to their guardian)
Has a default field for participants and signers to opt-in (or out) of email communication
Has a "share on Facebook" and “share on Twitter” options to send the link to other people who need to sign
Has the option to send an email after signing that allows the signer to download a copy of the waiver
Has the option to create a custom (vanity) URL for the waiver
Has the option to redirect participants to a different URL after they are done signing a waiver (in case you have a landing page you want them to see, for example)
Has the option to make the waiver a non-indexed page for search engines
Has the option to have fields required for both the minor and the guardian, or just for the adult signing the waiver
Has the ability to group custom questions into sections, each with a section title

Smartwaiver can also have a variety of custom fields (or questions). They can be:

Text boxes
Yes/no
Pull down
Checkboxes
Multiple choice
Date
And rich text (in case you want text with formatting)

We also want to note here that Smartwaiver has fewer standard fields than WaiverSign (as you'll see in a moment). The only ones they include are:

Email address required
Mailing address
Emergency contact & phone
Insurance provider & Policy number
Drivers License/ ID card number
Option to display or not display these fields on kiosk version

Beyond that, the functionality of the document editor achieves the same ends as WaiverSign's.

A Closer Look at WaiverSign

Here at WaiverSign, we’ve taken the opposite approach, prioritizing simplicity and ease-of-use. Our interface is a lot more straightforward than Smartwaiver's, but the user-friendliness comes at the cost of a few customization options.

"WaiverSign prioritizes simplicity and user-friendliness at the cost of a few customization options.

The Downside

When you compare the two on paper, WaiverSign has the shorter list of options. It lacks some of the more specialized features that Smartwaiver has, which may be a deal-breaker for some businesses.

For example, our custom fields can take the form of:

Text
Text boxes
Lists
Checkboxes
Body copy that has an accept/decline or initial requirement

It's a shorter list than Smartwaiver's, despite having all the same core functionality.

The Upside

WaiverSign's interface is designed to make setting up documents quick and easy. The entire document editor is displayed on a single page, with all the options together in one place. No tabs, no extra steps.

And options are grouped in ways that are easy to find. The top section is where you'll find options for the body of the copy, the standard information fields are in the middle, and custom fields are at the bottom.

Additionally, WaiverSign has more default fields than Smartwaiver. They include:

Email
Title
First name
Nickname
Middle Name
Last name
Gender
Organization
Phone
Date of birth
Street address
Country
Postal code
City
State
Identification #

WaiverSign also has a pre-waiver questionnaire that collects guest information. This information is then populated on all the waivers they need to sign, so they don't have to fill in redundant info more than once. Finally, WaiverSign also has a checkbox for signers to opt-in to email communications.

So for those looking for a more "plug-and-play" style system, WaiverSign is the safer bet.

Additional Features

We've talked about nearly all of the features , functions, and interfaces , but there were a few that were a little harder to categorize. So we're discussing them here.

Both Smartwaiver and WaiverSign:

Enable participants to sign multiple documents at once, taking information from a previous form and filling it in on a successive one
Allow participants to sign waivers from anywhere, as long as they have an internet connection
Can group waivers by "event," and event group coordinators can be set
Offer an unlimited number of users

On top of that, both WaiverSign and Smartwaiver offer custom language setup to meet the needs of participants that speak a language the platform doesn't currently have functionality for—though you will have to provide all the translations in both cases since it's obviously difficult to translate into a language you don't know.

Lastly, both allow you to make notes on a signer's file to add relevant information.

Smartwaiver-Only Features

This is another place where we have to give credit where credit's due. Smartwaiver has a handful of additional features that WaiverSign does not, and for some of you they may be the deciding factor.

"Smartwaiver has a handful of additional waiver features that WaiverSign does not, but those features aren't necessarily must-haves.

For one, Smartwaiver can take photos of the document signer, provided they sign via the kiosk app. The app uses the mobile device's camera and snaps a quick picture as they sign, adding the photo to their file. And speaking of signing on kiosks, Smartwaiver allows for finger signing on mobile devices.

A Quick Note on Signatures

"As cool as finger signing is, it's not strictly necessary, legally speaking.

Because of how current digital signature laws are structured, once you click that little box that says you agree to sign the document digitally, pretty much anything will work as your signature. Even if it's nowhere near your normal signature, it counts. It's why we haven't made finger signing a feature sooner.

The Waiver Index

Finally, there’s a feature that we don’t have because we decided to handle the issue differently. See, Smartwaiver has this thing they call a "waiver index." This index is a selection screen that displays buttons for each of your waiver templates. So if you offer, say, massage, acupuncture, and underwater basket weaving classes, you send guests a link to the index, and when they click on it, they simply choose the waiver that applies to the service they’ve paid for.

WaiverSign effectively does the opposite. Rather than having a selection screen and allowing the signer to choose the waiver, WaiverSign allows you to send a single link that contains all of the waivers that are required based on what the signer paid for. That way, they are presented with only the waivers they need to sign, and there’s no selection needed.

Smartwaiver's method is more convenient for the client (i.e. you), but it leaves room for error on the part of the document signer. If they're not careful, they may sign the wrong document and think they're done.

"Smartwaiver's method is more convenient for the client (i.e. you), but it leaves room for error on the part of the document signer.

WaiverSign's approach is a smoother user experience for your customer, but may take a little extra effort on your part to make sure the right waiver link is sent. That said, it also takes them through each waiver one by one, and uses the information from previous waivers to fill in each successive one (that way, they're not just filling out their name and address multiple times).

"WaiverSign's approach is a smoother user experience for your customer, but may take a little extra effort on your part.

Ok, we've covered just about every feature there is to cover (and the current word count reflects that). Now let’s talk about the last two important details: price, and customer service.

Price

Like a lot of what we've already discussed, price highlights fundamental differences in approach between Smartwaiver and WaiverSign.

"Price highlights fundamental differences in approach between Smartwaiver and WaiverSign.

Smartwaiver has seven pricing tiers, with each tier corresponding to a maximum number of waiver signings. There are no contracts, and you can cancel or change your plan anytime. The main drawback here is that you'll have to change your plan if you want to sign more waivers. Once you hit the max for your plan, it won't allow you to take any more signings (which might be problematic in the middle of a busy workday full of guests and participants).

WaiverSign instead has a single base price that includes 50 document signings. After those first 50, each additional signing costs just 10¢. There’s no limit to the number of signings, no tiers to switch to, no wasted signings if you paid for some you didn't use. You’re simply billed at the end of the month for the base price plus additional signings, and that’s it.

Here's what those two pricing strategies look like, across different amounts of document signings in a single month.

Custom Threshold

The "custom threshold" is the point at which your company can qualify for custom pricing. What does that mean? Well for both brands, as the number of documents you have signed goes up, the cost per signing goes down. In other words, if you're processing enough documents, you’ll get a discount for "buying in bulk."

The custom thresholds as listed on the respective websites are kind of "apples to oranges," if you know what we mean. So let's convert and compare.

Smartwaiver's threshold is 5,000 a month. Assuming that as a minimum, and multiplying that by 12 months, you get 60,000 signings in a year. WaiverSign's, on the other hand, is 50,000 a year. Dividing that evenly over 12 months (assuming year-round business operation), that's only 4,167 signings a month.

Now, there's not really any of us that can say they have the exact same number of sales each month of the year. But if you're doing business all year long, and you’ve got substantial customer traffic each month, WaiverSign will qualify you for custom pricing at a lower threshold than Smartwaiver, saving money on each month’s bill.

Similarly, if you only operate part of the year, but have some pretty impressive numbers during those months, you'll qualify for custom pricing through the whole year. As long as you hit that threshold, you benefit from the discounted pricing, even during the slow months (rather than having to maintain high numbers of participants throughout each month of the year).

That means you'll have hit the custom price threshold by the time you reach the limit of the equivalent plan at Smartwaiver.

What's more, because WaiverSign's cost structure only requires you to pay for the waivers you use, you're not paying for waivers you're not using. And finally, if you have periods of the year where you don't do any business, both Smartwaiver and WaiverSign have a "storage only" plan you can switch to, which only costs $5 a month.

To sum up, for those looking for a fixed cost each month, Smartwaiver has the more attractive pricing strategy. If, on the other hand, you'd like to pay less overall, and don't want to worry about limits, WaiverSign's cost structure is the better bet.

Customer Service

Finally, let's talk about how well each company takes care of their clients. We'll start with online ratings.

Capterra, a software review site (essentially Yelp, but for business software) is the most common benchmark used to measure platforms such as Smartwaiver and Waiversign. Looking at the profiles for either of them reveals favorable customer feedback. Smartwaiver has a slight lead, with a rating of 4.9 out of 5 . WaiverSign's right behind them, though, with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 .

Maybe that didn't really clear anything up for you, so let's try another angle. How about the kiosk apps? Let's take a look at those.

Smartwaiver's ratings for their kiosk app are less impressive, at 2.8 stars on Google Play , and 3 stars on the App Store . That might look bad, but compare that to some of the most popular kiosk apps that WaiverSign is paired with. Kiosk Browser Lockdown, for instance, sits at a 2.9 on Google Play , and Kiosk Pro Lite is only a little better at a 3.5 on the App Store .

So it seems most kiosk apps are feeling the sting of customer feedback. It is important to note, however, that on the pages for Smartwaiver’s kiosk app, the most common complaint is that the app isn’t compatible with the device the client bought to run it on. Similar problems come up in the reviews for their other app.

Ok, well, if the apps are all a toss-up, how about support documentation? Where do I go when I have a question or need to know how to use the system?

Both Smartwaiver and WaiverSign have thorough documentation to provide answers and solutions to common problems. Smartwaiver does have a larger library than WaiverSign, but our library is constantly growing, so we may catch up before you know it.

"But what if I have a real problem?" we hear you say. "How easy is it to get ahold of someone to help me resolve the issue?"

That’s a very good question, and if there's any clear winner in this category, it's probably decided with this. With WaiverSign, support can be reached by email, by phone, and even by in-app chat to answer your questions . We're quick to respond during normal business hours (for Mountain Standard Time, that is), but even if you catch us after hours or on weekends, we respond promptly to clients with urgent needs.

"With WaiverSign, support can be reached by email, by phone, and even by in-app chat.

Smartwaiver is a little less accessible. If you have an issue, the only way to contact them is to use their email form on their website. They don't list the phone number for support, and they don't list their hours of availability. It may be that their support documentation is more robust simply because they want you to figure out problems on your own—a sort of "self-service" customer support.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You made it to the end of the article. It's kind of impressive, actually. Hopefully you learned a few things, and hopefully we’ve helped make your decision about which solution to use a little easier.

In case you've just suffered from reading overload, or you just skipped to the bottom to spoil the ending, here's a final verdict on the two systems.

Smartwaiver is a competent, effective online waiver system with high levels of customization and lots of features. It's ideal for businesses that need an expanded feature set, that don’t mind paying extra to get other solutions they need from 3rd parties, that don't require a lot of customer support, or that only need a waiver solution.

For those who want a solution that's less expensive and easier to use, who want easier access to support, or who want a solution that’s fully integrated into other tools they need, WaiverSign is the obvious choice.

"Try WaiverSign for free

If our brutal honesty and frank discussion about our own strengths and weaknesses has intrigued you, we invite you to schedule a time to talk with us. We'd love a chance to speak with you personally to see if WaiverSign would be a good fit for your business.

Liability Waiver Best Practices

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 06:12:53 GMT

Liability Waiver Best Practices

Leah Corrigan

While ensuring that you have a well-drafted, accurate, and legally compliant liability waiver or release is important, an often overlooked issue is how organizations actually use the waiver in their day-to-day operations. If a business’s liability waiver process is inconsistent with the concepts of full and fair disclosure of the limits of your liability, the effectiveness of your waiver could be undercut.

Below we will discuss the following five tips for the effective deployment of a liability waiver:

1. Provide The Liability Waiver Ahead Of Time

While there are no uniform or hard and fast rules regarding the length of time a person who signs a waiver should have to read it, you should ensure your customer has sufficient time to read and understand the terms of the waiver.Utilizing an electronic waiver service like WaiverSign is a good way to provide the waiver electronically before your customer arrives, allowing them sufficient time to fully review the waiver. Following this practice will eliminate any argument from a future plaintiff that they were rushed and didn’t understand what they were signing.

A liability waiver is a binding legal contract. It likely contains provisions wherein a person who may be injured by your negligence agrees not to sue you if they are hurt or killed. As a trial lawyer, I don’t want to be defending a liability waiver in court that has a silly font, or a tiny text size that is illegible. I want the jury or judge to know that as an organization or business, you treat your liability waiver as the serious document that it is.

2. Use A Normal Font Size And Style In Your Waiver

3. Don’t Intermingle The Waiver With Other Registration Materials

Avoid the temptation to combine registration materials, medical questionnaires, or other information within the same document as your waiver. For the same reasons as described in number 2, above, you do not want to appear to “bury” the waiver provisions within less important documents. A liability waiver is a serious legal contract – it shouldn’t be disguised, buried, polluted, or otherwise made less obvious to your customer by lumping it in with other documents.

It is human nature, particularly in service-based businesses, for staff to want to give customers the answer they are looking for. It is unrealistic to expect staff to give the correct legal answer to a customer asking about waiver provisions, and an answer inconsistent with the written waiver can create serious problems in the event of a lawsuit. If a customer has concerns about the waiver and wishes to discuss it, that discussion should be with a manager or owner who has been trained by an experienced lawyer in how to respond to waiver questions. Providing the waiver well ahead of time will make this process easier, and give you time to consult with your lawyer if a difficult question arises.

4. Train Your Staff Not To Explain Or Interpret The Liability Waiver For Customers

5. Pay Attention To Red-Flags When Participants Review Your Waiver

If you have a customer who, after reviewing your waiver, expresses trepidation or worry about engaging in the activity or experience or waiving their right to sue, this should raise a red flag. Some customers who are uncomfortable with or unwilling to assume the risks of the activity or experience should be let go. If you begin to feel that you are trying to talk someone into signing your waiver, pay attention to that red flag.

Following these five best practices for liability waiver deployment will help ensure that your liability waiver is more effective in the event of a lawsuit.

Can I download my online waiver

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 06:12:52 GMT

Easily download and print your online waiver

Candace Woodbury

Using online waivers can save you time, space, and money. WaiverSign offers many great features that do just that. One is the ability to store unlimited electronic waiver documents indefinitely, allowing you to retrieve them within a matter of seconds from your secure “Cloud Vault”.

We know that there will be situations when you may need to download or print a signed document. We’ve made it easy for you to locate, download as a .pdf file, and print any signed document directly from the "signed documents" section in WaiverSign or directly from the guest’s record in just a few clicks.

Do I Have The Ability To Export All My Customers’ Signed Online Waivers?

At any time you can export all signed online waivers from the "signed documents" section in WaiverSign. With just a few clicks you will have downloaded all your documents as .pdf files organized together in a .zip file.

Ready to let WaiverSign help you streamline your business? Get started with a free Demo account today and see for yourself how thorough, sophisticated, and easy WaiverSign is to use, for both you and your customers.

Fitness Liability Waivers

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 05:22:01 GMT

How WaiverSign can help fitness professionals take classes and liability waivers digital

Kate Tucker

I have been amazed over the past week how many fitness professionals, yogis, pilates teachers and boot camp teachers have contacted WaiverSign to take their classes online during the COVID-19 crisis. The conversation has been very similar with all of them in that they want to keep their clients active and healthy while at home and continue to teach the classes that keep them motivated, healthy and in touch with their community.

WaiverSign can take your paper waiver and produce a digital link that you can then email to your clients and they can sign the fitness liability waiver on their computers, tablets, or phones. It’s a super efficient process and really easy to do. Once the waiver is signed, you can easily see who has signed the waiver in the WaiverSign dashboard with lots of options for sorting the captured data. You can also set up a notification to ping a specific email address each time a waiver is signed. There are so many great options and we can work together to customize how best to use the WaiverSign application for your business.

Speaking for myself, exercise is an important part of my life and mental health. It’s been challenging to be at home and a balancing act for everyone with remote work, e-learning for school, and making time for exercise and dog walks. All of the beaches around us are closed so we’ve gone off-road on the island and have found some amazing places to explore. We found a spot near the Kiawah River earlier in the week and saw two alligators and a manta ray hunting in the wild which was very cool to see. I’m also doing yoga online with my teacher and class and it’s been great to see the community that I practice with here. It has made things feel a bit more normal even though they aren’t right now.

If you have a personal trainer waiver , gym liability waiver , yoga waiver , or something else, please reach out with your fitness liability waiver and I will create an account for you so that you can take your classes online, continue to be healthy and connect with your people. Be well.

3 ways to improve your online waiver

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 18:11:01 GMT

3 ways to improve your online waiver

Greg Rosenhan

Think about all the online waivers you have ever signed. Picture them in your head. What did they look like? Were they easy to understand and easy to sign?

I am sure you have had some experiences that were great and others that were pretty bad. What made the difference?

While you are thinking about that, let me share a quick personal example. I recently went to a nearby gun range with my dad. When I walked in, I immediately noticed that they had kiosks to sign waivers on. Wrapped in the company’s branding with their logo on the screen. They looked nice.

When it came time to sign my waiver, I went to the kiosk and started filling it out. The first part was simple and straightforward. I knew exactly what to do. I continued to the next screen and began filling out a bunch of drop-downs with specific questions. Finally finished, I went to sign it, and a review screen popped up. Luckily I took a second to look it over because there was a big mistake.

I went back to fix the mistake and found that the drop-down section wasn’t easy after all. The label for each drop-down was beneath it instead of above it. So I accidentally selected yes to the question asking “Do you or have you ever wanted to harm yourself?”

Who knows what would have happened if I hadn’t seen that huge mistake, but I am sure glad I noticed it. That day reinforced the importance of having a great user experience during the signing flow. It also made me think of 3 ways to improve your online waiver .

1. Use Accept/Decline And Initial Fields

Sometimes there are specific sections of your document you want to give special attention to like the example above. The best way to make sure your customers see this information is to require an action in order for them to sign their documents. This can be done in various ways. We have found the best way is to require them to accept/decline the section or to initial the section acknowledging that they agree to the statement.

In WaiverSign this is easy. Simply click the link to add a new section and then select if you want Initials or Accept/Decline. You can have as many of these as you need throughout your document.

2. Brand Your Online Waiver

Whether your customers sign their waivers at home or in-person, branding your waiver helps create stronger brand awareness. Many times one person books the activity but others in his group need to sign waivers as well. This might be the first time that those people see your brand. Also, it just looks better and more authentic with a logo.

Online waivers are a great way to collect information for future marketing. With 16 standard fields and unlimited custom fields, you can gather all the right information and much more. Not only does this help you with future marketing, but it helps you easily prepare for guests that might have special needs to address such as allergies or health problems.

3. Collect The Right Information

Popular Disney Springs Restaurant and online liability waivers

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 05:20:36 GMT

Seafood, Amphicars, & Online Liability Waivers

Jeremy Jensen

After a long day exploring the Walt Disney World Resort, there's no better place to whet your appetite than by heading to the Disney Springs shopping and dining complex. Disney Springs is both open late and has a fantastic selection of places to grab dinner and desserts. Among the wide options to choose from, one particular restaurant finds a way to stand out from the crowd, and WaiverSign is there to help streamline the experience with online liability waivers .

The Boathouse Restaurant offers an upscale seafood dining experience that is great for date nights or family outings. I personally stopped by The Boathouse for the former with my wife on a recent trip to Disney World. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating, a dockside bar, and fantastic waterfront sunset views. But most importantly, the food is absolutely fantastic.

Arriving hungry is a must, because the menu is a tempting roster of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. The dinner rolls offered once seated were delicious and I had to refrain from filling up on them before I’d even ordered. For the entree I ordered the Baked Crab Stuffed Lobster, and my wife went with the steamed lobster and a half dozen of their Lucky Dux oysters. It all tasted fantastic and we finished every bite!

Despite being full at this point, we just had to press on and order desserts. I chose the New York Blueberry Cheesecake; my wife, the famous Key Lime Pie in a Mason Jar. Both were satisfying ends to a great dinner. For the food alone, this place was definitely worth the visit and we couldn’t be more pleased.

How Online Liability Waivers Help The Boathouse

At this point you may be wondering where an online liability waiver may come into play. What makes The Boathouse so unique is their amazing fleet of vintage amphicars. These classic cars are specially modified to function both as a car on land, and as a boat in the water and can be booked for guided tours of the lake which will take you around landmarks throughout Disney Springs.

Reservations can be easily made at the checkout counter of BOATIQUE, a cute gift shop attached to the restaurant. As a bonus, if you eat at the restaurant beforehand, your receipt will include a discount on the price of the tour. Before embarking, all guests need to sign an online liability waiver using WaiverSign. The tour guide will then pick you up in the amphicar right next to the restaurant and drive you straight down the dock into the water. It’s a really fun time to say the least.

For more information about The Boathouse, visit their website.

Siltop Visions and Electronic Waiver

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 05:15:05 GMT

Save more time with an electronic waiver

Kate Tucker

WaiverSign recently started working with Siltop Visions which is a large tract of land in Pennsylvania that people recreationally use for hiking, biking and ATV use. Owner, Paul Silvis, turned to WaiverSign to help him make the process easier for the pass holders using the land to electronic waiver . We asked Paul to describe his experience with WaiverSign so far. His experience with WaiverSign has not only saved him money with buying and filing paper, but also has saved him time, so that he can get out and enjoy the property he loves as well.

Process Before Implementing An Electronic Waiver

“I bought a large tract of land where locals had previously hunted and rode ATVs. I knew I could not keep them off the property so I met with my attorney and developed a liability waiver that everyone entering the property had to sign. Then I hired the retired local Chief of Police to patrol the property and started charging an annual membership fee. Membership grew to over 1,500 pass holders and the boxes of signed waivers grew unmanageably.”

“Some members did not renew and new members joined each year creating dozens of paper waivers per week. Many of the pass holders did not have a computer or printer to print or scan signed PDF waivers to me. One day as I was “accepting” the agreement for a software update I thought, “I wonder if anyone has an electronic waiver system for liability waivers?”

"I created a Weebly website and used Square for payments, but I still needed an electronic waiver solution for the liability release waivers. I searched around and found WaiverSign worked best for my business because pass holders did not meet me in person and all business was transacted over the website.”

Why Paul Loves His Electronic Waiver

“The key to selling me on WaiverSign was Kate Tucker. She converted my PDF waivers to WaiverSign format and she coached me on how to use the embedded data fields. Waivers were simple to import and edit. My attorney reviewed the electronic waiver system and gave it his blessing. I tested it with some of the pass holders and I was shocked how quickly they caught on. Since January 1, 2020 I have not had to touch a paper pdf and struggle to read illegible handwriting. My wife used to be my waiver filing secretary and she is elated to be paper free. It used to take me a week to enroll pass holders and now the same work can be done in a day. I absolutely LOVE Waiver Sign! At ten dollars a month, it is a very cost effective electronic waiver solution.”

One Reason to use Digital Waivers

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 17:55:48 GMT

1 Perfect Reason to use Digital Waivers

Kate Tucker

What do you do when you have a situation at your business and you can’t find the signed waiver?

I recently spoke with a business owner who has been in business for twelve years. The business has accumulated thousands upon thousands of paper waivers that are now stored in bankers boxes in a storage room at the business. A situation took place at the business and the insurance company wanted to have a copy of the waiver to review. The employees and owners spent countless hours combing through the boxes, page after page, to no avail. Needless to say, this isn’t a great way to start off the New Year.

Digital Waivers Won't Let You Down Like Paper

After researching several different digital waiver companies, the owners of the business kept coming back to WaiverSign. They loved how easy it was to use and how responsive we were when they called to chat about their situation and their growing needs going forward. They quickly realized the beauty and magic of WaiverSign. With digital waivers , when you need to find a waiver, it simply takes a few seconds.

How To Access Your Digital Waivers

I feel great about helping this company move forward in a positive digital direction for 2020. Gone will be the days of printing out the waivers, filing them in banker boxes otherwise known as “the large black hole” and then carting them off to the storage closet. This company is also extremely excited about the fact that they will be able to export all of the email addresses they collect on a monthly basis to market to their customers about their specials, upcoming events and even new products. I’m very excited for them to see all the benefits of digital waivers !

Goodbye Paper, Hello Digital Waivers

First, sign into your WaiverSign account and go to your WaiverSign dashboard. Then, look in the Signed Documents section where you can enter a first and last name to simply and efficiently locate the waiver. That's it. Depending on the nature of your business, you can also enter many other valid fields of information to retrieve a waiver which will be viewable and printable via a PDF.

Digital Waivers and Baseball Tournaments

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 17:45:06 GMT

Hit a Home Run with Digital Waivers

Kate Tucker

We’re in the car traveling back home from our son’s baseball tournament at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Disney, so I have some time to reflect on a few things from a whirlwind week in Orlando, FL. It was a busy week with a lot of rain delays but in the end a group of 11 year old boys from all over the US and the Dominican Republic came together as a team to take the championship win out of twenty-two teams entered in the tournament. There were some amazing plays, great pitching, some epic slides into home plate and even a few home runs.

Digital Waivers Can Simplify Your Process.

WaiverSign Is The Perfect Digital Waiver Solution

With WaiverSign, you can still send your guests and clients an email. Within the email you can have a link for people to click on which will bring them directly to the digital waiver to sign. WaiverSign also has event functionality which gives you the ability to assign an event name, event date, an event coordinator and then provide your customers with a unique link just for that event. From a dashboard perspective you will not only be able to search through the “Signed Documents” section to see who has signed your waivers, but you can also search events and over time gain valuable data on your business.

Bottom line, WaiverSign will help you become more efficient as a business and in many cases you will hit a home run with your customers and keep them happy with the ease and efficiency of the digital waiver signing process. Time is precious and we’re all busy and we hear this time and time again from everyone around us. If you can save your customers time in the waiver signing process they will in turn feel that they are joining a professional organization.

When we were signing up for the tournament we had to sign a "digital waiver" . It ended up not being very digital and was a very time consuming and frustrating process. We were sent an email and within the email was a copy and pasted document that we had to print out, sign, then scan and email back to the tournament director or we could have printed the waiver, signed the waiver and then mailed the waiver back in an envelope with a stamp. Of course any time I have to sign a waiver, I always compare it to the experience with signing a digital waiver through WaiverSign. How can I not, right?

Axe Throwing and Online Waivers

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 05:11:49 GMT

Hitting the bullseye with Digital Waivers

Kate Tucker

Jeremy Johnson, Marketing/Special Project Supervisor for Country Folks Superstore/Big Bear Axe Throwing in Cumming, GA took the time to fill out our WaiverSign 90 Day Customer Feedback Survey and what he said about how his check-in process has changed has really stuck with me. It’s an important topic that comes up time and time again when I’m talking with potential WaiverSign customers. Jeremy said,

WaiverSign's digital waivers bypassed a huge bottleneck in our check-in process, and we no longer have to manually file waivers. That's a huge win for a small business!

When you have customers that are waiting in line to check into your business it can cause some people to lose patience and get frustrated, which is not what you want to happen when someone has taken the time to visit your business. Having your customers sign waivers ahead of arriving at your business is truly one of the best features of going digital with your waivers. You can send the online waiver link in a confirmation or welcome email or you can place the digital waiver link on your website and direct your customers to sign there. You can really bypass the bottleneck and keep your customers happy and excited about visiting your business. The other part of his quote that rings true is the fact that,

" By going digital with your waivers, you can stop manually filing the paper and then storing the paper. It’s a super simple process to go into your WaiverSign account and look up all of your waivers that have been signed. You can look them up by first and last name, email address or whatever piece of information works best for your business.

Digital Waivers For More Than Just Axe Throwing

The CountryFolks Superstore/Big Bear Axe Throwing uses WaiverSign for their axe throwing, gun range, and children's parties and online waivers are available through their websites and in-store at their waiver kiosks. The facility is a retail/activity center hybrid. They have a retail boutique, gun store/range, arcade, axe throwing and even a barbecue restaurant on site. When you use the WaiverSign application you’re able to customize your online waivers to the different facets of your business. You can have an unlimited number of waiver templates and your monthly price stays the same at $10 per month, with 100 free waivers each month then $.10 per waiver after that billed on a monthly basis. We can also customize a package for non-profits or high volume businesses as well.

Jeremy also brought up another point as he filled out the survey which is another subject that comes up a lot in discussion.

Using a computer, phone or tablet to type your answers within the waiver instead of handwriting is so much easier.

We all know that some people specialize in chicken-scratch when it comes to their handwriting skills and by implementing WaiverSign you can bypass the chicken-scratch and have a legible source of information for your business and your future marketing needs. And as we all know, there is nothing more valuable than a legible and correct email address in this modern day and age.

Bypass the bottleneck and check out WaiverSign today.

Digital Waivers for Volunteers

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 05:09:19 GMT

Digital Waivers for Volunteers

Kate Tucker

It’s that time of year again, where you look at the calendar and you can’t quite believe it’s almost Thanksgiving. Where has the year gone and how can it possibly almost be 2020?? Yikes. I know for my family, Thanksgiving is always a great time to get together and make memories with my parents, my brothers and my nephews making their way down the coast from the Green Mountains in Vermont where the temps are starting to chill to spend some great time here on the coast of Charleston. We cook and eat, then cook and eat some more, enjoy this historic city, walk the beach and have bonfires in the evening that my brother Paul always manages to make look like they’re right out of the pages of a magazine--the perfect fire with the perfect amount of heat. Vermonters definitely know to stoke their fires!! I am lucky to be able to spend this quality time with family and, after all, it’s the holidays that allow us to take some time off from work and connect with family and friends.

But as we all know, people in our communities are not always so fortunate and this is a fact that also weighs heavy on my mind during the holidays. As a family, we always make it our mission to give back in some way during the holidays to help people that are going through hardships and a rough time in life. I started thinking about this even more last week after speaking with Kathy Nelson from Giving the Basics located in Kansas and serving several communities in the greater Kansas City and Wichita areas. They are a non-profit that provides personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, lotion and other personal hygiene products to people in the community that are in need. In fact, they have over 230,000 people who have access to the basics in the course of a month and they have distributed over 2,400,000 personal hygiene products, they stock more than 76 pantries and work with over 300 schools to make sure adults and kids alike have the things they need to feel good about themselves, clean and healthy. Needless to say, they are an amazing organization with a lot of moving parts.

The National Forest Foundation

One of those moving parts is the fact that several community businesses and schools donate not only their resources but their time to volunteer at the warehouse and pantries and in doing so they are required to sign a waiver for their volunteer work. Kathy is looking to WaiverSign to take their paper waiver process to a digital format and one that several people in her office and their satellite offices can all access under one account which the WaiverSign application handles really well. Kathy is also very excited about the potential WaiverSign has to organize and manage events. Giving the Basics has several businesses that will volunteer several times a year and with WaiverSign on board, she will be able to organize these events and provide each business with their own unique link to use to sign waivers. She will easily be able to look up who has signed and over time she can also see historical information on the businesses. Kathy will also have the participant list at her fingertips and in the end WaiverSign will help everyone feel organized and professional.

We do like to do our part at WaiverSign in helping out the missions of the non-profits we work with, and when you sign up with WaiverSign we’ll plant a tree on your behalf with the National Forest Foundation.

We also offer a 10% discount to non-profits which is our way of saying thank you for all of the good work you do in our local communities and the world.

Digital Waivers for Ice Climbing

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 05:03:20 GMT

Digital Waivers for Ice Climbing Adventures

Kate Tucker

Summit Ascents International , based out of Denver, CO is now using WaiverSign to help their clients scale the summits of signing waivers before their ice climbing courses, domestic and international expeditions. Scott Halpenny, Owner and VP of Operations heard about WaiverSign from a fellow Colorado outfitter and contacted us to learn more about the product. Scott started Summit Ascents International a year and a half ago and it came from his love of mountaineering, climbing and the outdoors in general.

SAI offers world class rock and ice climbing trips, hiking, backcountry skiing tours and Summit Ascents, hence their name. They get a lot of Colorado climbers signing up for their courses and trips, but they also get people from all over the US. What’s cool about their program is that they have different tracks to help you accomplish your goals and dreams. If you’re a beginner and have never climbed before, then they have a track for you that can have you climbing in no time. If you’re more advanced and have dreams of bagging a big peak, then they have a track for you that will not only include making sure your mountaineering skills are top notch but also your fitness as well as nutrition to make your expedition be the best it can be. Their guides are top-notch, accredited and experienced in all things outdoor related.Scott came to WaiverSign because he was looking for a solution to replace the paper waivers they were previously using.

A Simple And Quick Solution

Scott was looking for an easy and quick way for his customers to sign online waivers . I asked Scott if he could describe the WaiverSign implementation process and he said,

“Simple...Took minutes to set-up, and has saved us a substantial amount of time, plus it's much harder to lose that paper!”

Scott is certainly not the only WaiverSign customer to say this. Time and time again, I hear from outfitters and businesses about the issues of dealing with paper--the cost of paper and ink, filing and storage issues and then of course, that good old lost piece of paper! Scott really summed it up nicely when he talked about the ease of use with WaiverSign , both for him and his customers. My hope is that WaiverSign helps Scott flawlessly execute his office and trip planning duties so that he can get back out in the mountains to enjoy the adventures that made him start Summit Ascents International in the first place.

What do axe throwing and digital waivers have in common?

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 05:00:19 GMT

Digital waivers speed up Stumpy's Hatchet House

Kate Tucker

WaiverSign is a proud partner of Stumpy’s Hatchet House and we have worked together since the beginning of their business. Over the past several years there has been a rise all around the US in axe throwing venues. I have been axe throwing once and I’m happy to say that my axe throwing skills are certainly better than my dart throwing skills. It must have something to do with the weight of the hatchet or at least that’s what I like to tell myself! If you ever get the opportunity to visit a location, you should definitely do it. It will be unlike anything you’ve ever done before. It’s adventurous in an old “pioneer-style” kind of way. If you’ve ever had a dream of being a cowboy or cowgirl then this is your place and a blast to do with friends.

Stumpy’s Hatchet House is America's original indoor hatchet throwing venue, providing a rustic, invigorating retreat from life's daily grind where guests can unwind and celebrate life's special occasions. Stumpy’s Hatchet House specializes in corporate team building, birthday parties bachelor/bachelorette parties, holiday parties and more. They have been in business for three and a half years, operating a corporate location in Eatontown NJ. WaiverSign was able to help them quickly and efficiently expand their business model across the United States with each new location having their own WaiverSign account. They currently have 15 operating franchises in NJ, PA, DE, MD, FL, MA, NC and TX. In the next 12 to 18 months they will have an additional 22 franchises operating in PA, NJ, LA, FL, TX, MN, VA and CA.

Stuart Josberger, Managing Partner at Stumpy’s, looked to WaiverSign to help find an efficient, fast and smooth way for people to sign online waivers . WaiverSign is presented to their guests via their website so guests can sign waivers ahead of their arrival at the Hatchet House or they can sign a waiver in their on-site training rooms via a permanent tablet. We asked Stuart about the WaiverSign implementation process and he responded by saying that,

“Working with WS ( WaiverSign ) has been a great experience. The staff is very responsive, pulls off last minute set ups and solves problems quickly.”

It was really nice to hear Stuart say that because at WaiverSign we really pride ourselves on not only our turn-around time for helping you to get an account set up but also for our customer service and support which time and time again we are complimented on. In a world of automation and massive company phone trees, it’s nice to know that you can talk to a real human being who wants to help you and your business be successful. Bottom line.

Stuart also shared with us how easy it is for them to pull data from their WaiverSign application and utilize it in their company marketing needs like email marketing lists and follow up lists. Stuart also mentioned that one of the biggest benefits of using WaiverSign was the

“Quick, easy and consistent entry into our locations. Having it on our website allows large groups to complete the waiver prior to arriving, thus speeding their entry into our locations.”

He makes a great point in that WaiverSign can help you cut down on the wait time at check in, especially when waivers can be signed ahead of time. This is especially true when you have a specific event. With the Event functionality within the WaiverSign application, you can manage lots of different events all at one time. You can give an event a name, specify a date and even assign a coordinator. The coordinator, think best woman/man for a bachelorette/bachelor party or the HR person who’s heading up a big corporate event. The coordinator will not have to sign into WaiverSign , instead they will get an email notifying them that a new sign up has occurred along with a link to current sign-ups that they can access. Super easy and efficient and again, keeps the wait time down when everyone is checking in to have fun and throw axes!

Baseball Training Camps and Digital Waivers

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 04:58:11 GMT

Digital waivers improve baseball training camps

Kate Tucker

Our son plays 11u USSSA travel baseball, so when in season we are a traveling baseball family. The tournaments are set up so that each team plays two games on Saturday and two games on Sunday depending on your seed. The boys on the team are dedicated players and are playing at a high level for their age. The games include great pitching and fielding with lots of “oohs and aaahs” including diving plays, double plays, stealing bases, sliding into home, fastballs, change-ups, strike outs, home runs, and of course, a bit of friendly heckling toward the umpires. Teams come from all over the southeast to participate. We used to own a boat. This is now our family’s “boat”.

I’m writing this today because I recently had a great conversation with Susanne Graham from Next Level Hitting in St. Louis, MO. She and her husband are opening a training facility where baseball and softball teams can come in for hitting practice and also one-on-one instruction. They are looking to WaiverSign to help them manage their waivers and to make the process very easy to look up when someone comes into the facility to train. Susanne is excited about going digital and having the waiver signing process organized from the beginning. I’m excited that we can help Susanne and Next Level Hitting do that with our winning digital waiver solution. Like baseball, WaiverSign is multifaceted and can handle liability forms, damage release forms, consent forms, rental agreements, participation agreements and so much more. We work with adventure tour companies, ranches , yoga studios , karate studios , spas , brow and lash studios , and large scale businesses like pro-football, basketball and hockey teams. The possibilities to use WaiverSign are limitless.

It was a great conversation not only because it’s fun to talk to someone who equally loves baseball, but it was cool to learn that she’s been through exactly what we’re going through now. I also felt like I was able to offer Next Level Hitting some great options with WaiverSign to help them with what they're going through now which is starting a new business. They have a son that’s now playing at a Division 1 college and still doing well with baseball. As we continued to chat about WaiverSign and baseball, Susanne wrapped up the conversation with a “Good luck this weekend” and she also reminded me to enjoy this time, right now with our son and the sport he loves.

Tube to Work Day

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 03:55:34 GMT

Saving time using WaiverSign to handle online waivers

Kate Tucker

I’ve heard of BYOB but never BYOT until I started talking with Jeff Kagan, Founder of Tube to Work Day a non-profit in Boulder, Colorado that is an aquatic inner tube commute down Boulder Creek. BYOT stands for “Bring Your Own Tube” and that’s just what over 1200 people recently did tubing down the creek in the heart of downtown dressed in their very best office clothes. There were not only classic inner tubes, but flamingos, unicorns, dolphins and many other finely decorated tubes. But before people were able to tube the creek they had to sign an online waiver and lucky for us, Jeff chose to work with WaiverSign .

Each year Tube to Work Day picks a charity of choice and you as the tuber can donate an hours worth of your pay (or more) to the cause. There are also several company sponsors as well. What’s so cool about Tube to Work Day is that is essentially started as a bet between two friends in Boulder. Could they each make it to their offices without use of a vehicle? Over the years they tried all different sorts of travel modes--bikes, blades, boards but then settled on tubes to ride down Boulder Creek which snakes its way through town with several rapids along the way. The first official Tube to Work Day was in 2008 and it’s been going strong and growing ever since. I love the fact that people are taking a small break from work, to get in touch with their adventurous spirits and also donating to worthy causes along the way.

" Jeff was really trying to have people sign digital waivers before the event so that there wouldn’t be a traffic jam of tubers on the morning of the event.

Jeff first approached me at WaiverSign with his event right around the corner. We were able to get him signed up and online waivers setup within a day which he was super excited about. Jeff was really trying to have people sign digital waivers before the event so that there wouldn’t be a traffic jam of tubers on the morning of the event. Jeff put a link on his website and had many people signed the waiver before the event and then he had wifi enabled tablets at the event for anyone who needed to sign on the spot. There were no long lines and everyone was able to get on the creek and enjoy the morning, unicorns and all!

Boulder holds a special place in my heart. I spent over ten years living in Boulder, bought my first home there, met my future husband there and some of my very best friends in the world still live there amongst those towering and majestic Flatirons and Rocky Mountains. Some have even participated in Tube to Work Day which just brings everything full circle for me. If I’m ever in Boulder during Tube to Work Day you can bet I’ll be riding a very finely decorated tube down the creek!

Tree Limin' Extreme goes digital!

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 04:16:21 GMT

Resmark and WaiverSign Helps Zipline Company in Caribbean Get Back on Its Feet

Kate Tucker

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Sept. 18, 2019 – In early September 2019, the following announcement of a job opportunity opened up in the Caribbean: “Tree Limin' Extreme, LLC is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Zipline Guide at its park as well as an Office Manager located on St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.” This is good news for the island’s economy and for adventurous visitors who are returning to St. Thomas in the wake of now-historic hurricanes that pounded the island in 2017. Two years have passed since two category five storms attacked St. Thomas back to back.

In island culture, limin’ means to hang out. And this is what guests can do on their 400-square-foot platforms between ziplines. This exhilarating course was designed by a world-renowned contractor, Bradd Morse of Canopy Consulting Inc. Situated high in the rainforest of St. Peter Mountain, guests experience breathtaking views of Magen’s Bay, Jost van Dyke, Tortola and beyond. The park encompasses six ziplines, two sky bridges and acres of jungle. Guides are on hand to assuage fears and to give names to the diverse flora and fauna over which guests soar.

" Resmark’s online booking system and WaiverSign's digital liability solution has freed-up three staff members to focus efforts on customer service -- rather than on technical paperwork issues.

Its mission statement says: “It is the mission of Tree Limin’ Extreme to develop & maintain an outstanding reputation in the Virgin Islands and the eco-tour industry with the highest regard for safety and impeccable customer service.” As such the Bryans are active in the Association for Challenging Course Technology. Their guides are extensively trained and are First Aid Certified and trained in CPR.

Canopy Consulting Inc. And Resmark

Canopy Consulting Inc. also referred them to Resmark Systems, the Utah-based company that provides online booking and reservation software . Resmark also offers WaiverSign, a technology that enables businesses to effortlessly obtain signatures on digital release of liability waivers from clients. Bryan estimates that between Resmark’s online booking system along with the use of WaiverSign, she is freeing up at least three members of her staff to focus their efforts on customer service -- rather than on technical paperwork issues. WaiverSign calculates that a company that processes 8,000 waivers annually will save more than $5,000 from the cost of handling paper waivers when it comes to time, labor, tracking and materials. “We were Number 1 on Trip Advisor for some five years running until we had to close the park and no reviews were coming in. Our goal is to bounce back to the top and we need our talented staff to help us achieve this,” she said. For details on Tree Limin’ Extreme, LLC, please see: www.ziplinestthomas.com .

Online Waivers and Insurance

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 04:05:51 GMT

Online Waivers and a Good Insurance Policy

Kate Tucker

We hunkered down and waited for Hurricane Dorian to pummel the coast of South Carolina last week. It was a long week of preparation with moving all patio furniture to the garage, moving all outdoor potted plants to the garage, moving basically anything that can fly in the wind to the garage. As you can imagine our garage was jam-packed full with anything and everything without an inch to spare. We also stocked up on supplies, checked all the batteries in all lights and lanterns, charged up all battery packs and solar chargers, boarded up the windows and battened down the hatches and waited for Dorian to arrive. It’s always hard to know what to do when a Hurricane is approaching. Should we stay or should we go? It amazes me how the trajectory of a storm can change. Earlier in the week it looked like it was going to track to sea but then in the end it ended up passing us as a Category 3 storm on Thursday with howling winds, torrential rain and lots of flooding. We fared well at our home and in the end lost a large Oak tree with lots of downed tree limbs and debris everywhere. Our power was out for four days so that made for some great days of Uno and Scrabble while we listened to the wind howl. We were very lucky in Charleston and other areas like the Bahamas were not so lucky with loss of life and devastation to personal property and the beautiful islands. Very, very sad. It got me thinking about our home insurance policy and flood insurance policy and hoping that we wouldn’t need to use them but that they were there if we needed them. Earlier in the year, WaiverSign started working with PARSAC in California, the Public Agency Risk Sharing Authority of California. Erike Young contacted us and wanted to set up over forty cities and towns they work with in the state so that they could go digital with online waivers . It has been a great partnership and it has given the city and town managers another tool for their municipalities to deal with the public and give them options for signing waivers. They can have people sign online waivers for community events and even for signing up kids and adults for recreational sports programs. They were also looking to make an environmental impact as well by saving paper and resources. It’s great to be aligned with companies that are thinking ahead to the future. Like a good insurance policy, WaiverSign is here for you if you want to go digital with your online waiver signing process . Reach out and let us know if we can help. The beauty of living so close to the ocean is that we’re always going to have a hurricane season and we’re always waiting for the next one. Fingers crossed they stay out at sea!

The Dog Psychology Center and Training Cesar’s Way

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 15:14:24 GMT

Digital Waivers and Dog Trainers

Kate Tucker

This handsome guy in the photo is soon to turn 3 years old and was named Benji Bear by our son. I will admit he does look like a little bear. His mom is a German Shepherd and his dad is an Australian Shepherd and he came to us via Birmingham, Alabama from a friend my husband worked with. It seems as though Benji Bear’s parents got friendly at a family BBQ and well, that was that. They were looking for good homes so we met in Atlanta, Georgia and brought him home to Charleston, SC where he joined our then 12 year old rescue from the streets of Los Angeles, Bella. I can’t say it was love at first site for Bella, but it certainly is now. They’ve totally fallen in love with each other and she’s helped us train the Bear.

The Dog Whisperer And Digital Waivers

Benji Bear is an awesome dog and really has the best qualities of both breeds. He’s super protective of our family, loyal, loving, athletic, and an amazing herder but at times can be a little too protective of the door. It’s like he sees red and can’t back down even when you’re telling him it’s OK. We’ve been working on this and of course it takes time. I’ve had visions of the Dog Whisperer, even asking myself, what would Cesar do?

" Kim wanted to go digital for their training facility in CA where they hold many different levels of classes ranging from training pups to all ages of dogs.

So, when Kim Glass, Director of Operations from Cesar Millan’s Dog Psychology Center reached out about incorporating online digital waivers , I was thrilled. It brought back tons of memories of watching “The Dog Whisperer” on Saturday mornings and just being amazed at the changes Cesar was able to make with dogs. His confidence, his patience and his overall ability to connect with canine companions always amazes me. Kim wanted to go digital for their training facility in CA where they hold many different levels of classes ranging from training pups to all ages of dogs. People travel from all over the world to attend classes with Cesar Millan and his team, so going to a digital waiver format was really important for Kim. She wanted to be able to send a waiver link in their confirmation emails and then have students sign at any time. They also wanted to be able to organize waivers in a simple way. With WaiverSign it’s as simple as looking up an digital waivers by first and last name and then it’s viewable via a pdf. The person signing the waiver also gets a copy that is date and time stamped.

We’re thrilled to work with them and look forward to having WaiverSign help them manage their classes and events. There really is nothing like the relationship and bond between humans and dogs. Although Benji Bear still has a lot of work to do, we continue to work with him and give him tons of love each day. If we ever find ourselves in Cali with him then we’ll certainly look into a class at The Dog Psychology Center. I’m sure we would be amazed at what we would learn.

Advantages of Electronic Waivers Over Paper

Thu, 06 Sep 2018 17:41:12 GMT

Electronic Waiver Advantages

Chip Broyles

Thanks to the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (E-Sign Act), which was passed into law in 2000, signing an electronic waiver with an electronic signature is now considered as legally binding as a signature on paper. And, thanks to WaiverSign, gathering signatures on electronic waivers is not only incredibly easy, but also secured via SSL, OAuth 2.0, Amazon Web Services Cloud Storage and other top-end security protocols.

WaiverSign was built with the overall user experience in mind, but more importantly it was built with recommendations and input from professional lawyers who specialize in mitigation of liability for businesses based throughout the United States and Canada.

Leveraging WaiverSign to present your waiver or other important documents to your participants to sign, inherently comes with many advantages that a paper process simply can’t match. Three of these advantages are: Access, Integrity, and Transparency.

Access

In the case of high risk activities or adventure tours, many tour operators accept, or even require, pre-arrival bookings or reservations often days, weeks, or months in advance. The earlier you can get your document in front of the eyes of the participant, the better it is for you and your company. Many participants have argued that they were forced to sign a lengthy legal document, after arrival onsite, and immediately prior to participation. Because of this “pressure,” they were not given sufficient time to read and understand the document and the inherent risks of the activity in which they were about to participate. In the case of walk-up business, this type of scenario probably can’t be avoided, but having a tool like WaiverSign in place, will provide you with an opportunity to present your document to your guest at the earliest possible time.

Integrity

Leveraging WaiverSign also maintains the integrity of your document. Many rafting outfitters and adventure tour operators have discovered signed release of liability waivers where certain pieces of the document have been lined through or crossed out and then initialed by the signing party. While WaiverSign has functionality that allows a business to present an Accept/Decline section of content to the participant, at no point in the signing process does the participant have the ability to manipulate the wording in the document itself.

In the days of paper waivers, once the document is signed, it usually becomes the property of the business that presented it to the participant in the first place. Especially in the case of walk-up business, rarely would the guest receive a copy of the document they just signed.

With WaiverSign, the business and the participant, receive a time-stamped and IP-address labeled copy of the document in question. One copy resides in the WaiverSign admin account, and a second copy is shared with the participant using the required email address they supplied during the signing process. Especially in the case of documents needing to be signed prior to arrival, this provides more opportunity for the participant to re-read your document and understand their risks prior to participation.

Transparency

Summary

Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act
Uniform Electronic Transactions Act
Adventure Travel Trade Association
National Outdoor Leadership School
America Outdoors Association

Helpful Links

With all of the tools and advantages WaiverSign provides, we still cannot stress enough the importance of working with qualified legal counsel, who understand your business, and can draft the wording of your legal documents to best protect your interests. Once you have that in place, WaiverSign will help you present your document to your participants from multiple access points, will protect the integrity of the document itself, and will provide both you and your guests an easy solution to review and store the document as you see fit.

3 Keys to Digital Waiver Success

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 16:30:01 GMT

Improve the way that you use digital waivers

Chip Broyles

How do I collect digital waivers onsite?

How do I find and verify waivers?

Bottom line, the information you gather from your signing guests is your data, and you have access to it whenever, and wherever, you need it .