Templates in DocuSigner save you significant time by allowing you to pre-configure frequently used documents. This guide walks you through creating a new template. Note: Template creation is often a premium feature.

1. Accessing the Template Creation Area

Navigate to the "Templates" section from the main sidebar. Here, you'll typically find a button like "Create New Template" or "Add Template."

2. Basic Template Information

You'll start by providing essential details for your template:

• Template Name: A clear, descriptive name (e.g., "Standard NDA," "Client Onboarding Packet").
• Description (Optional): A brief note about the template's purpose or content.

3. Uploading a Base Document (PDF)

Most templates are built upon an existing PDF document that serves as the foundation. Upload the PDF you want to use for this template. This could be your standard contract, form, etc. The process is similar to uploading a regular document.

4. Defining Signer Roles

Instead of specific people, templates use roles. These are placeholders for the participants who will eventually use the document generated from this template. Examples:

• "Client"
• "Employee"
• "Hiring Manager"
• "Vendor Representative"

You can add, name, and reorder these roles. For each role, you might also be able to specify a placeholder for their email if it's always the same contact point for that role.

5. Placing Fields in the Template Editor

This step is very similar to preparing a regular document in the Document Editor. The key difference is that you assign fields to the roles you defined, not to specific individuals.

1. Select a signer role (e.g., "Client").
2. Choose a field type from the palette (Signature, Text Box, Date, etc.).
3. Place the field on the document preview.
4. Configure field properties (e.g., make it required, add a label visible to the eventual signer).
5. Repeat for all fields and all roles.

For example, you might place a signature field and assign it to the "Client" role, and another signature field assigned to "Your Company Representative" role.

6. Saving the Template

Once you've named your template, uploaded a base PDF (if applicable), defined roles, and placed all necessary fields, save the template. It will then be available in your "Templates" list for future use.

Creating well-designed templates is a cornerstone of efficient document management in DocuSigner, saving you time and ensuring consistency.