Adobe will add EchoSign's software to its online document exchange services platform and integrate it with its SendNow managed file transfer, FormsCentral forms creation and CreatePDF online PDF creation tools.

EchoSign's software is designed to accelerate sales cycles, improve tracking and centralise the management of signed agreements by replacing traditional methods, such as fax and overnight envelopes, with a cloud-based service.

"By adding electronic signature capabilities to Adobe's document exchange services platform, we will be addressing the need to provide better customer experiences by significantly reducing the time, cost and complexity associated with having a document signed," said Kevin Lynch, general manager of Acrobat Solutions, Digital Enterprise Solutions, Adobe.

EchoSign provides a secure, subscription-based service to individuals, SMEs and enterprise clients, enabling real-time visibility into the signature process and automatically storing and managing all signed documents.

EchoSign is based in California, with a sales presence in the UK and Germany. The company's founders and all full-time staff will join Adobe following completion of the deal, which is for an undisclosed sum.