As a professional blogger who’s been following developments in the digital space, I’ll be the first to admit that the notarization industry isn’t something I usually delve into. But recently, I got the chance to learn about two revolutionary technologies: IPEN (In-Person Electronic Notarization) and RON (Remote Online Notarization). I was so amazed by their potential to reshape the notarization landscape that I felt compelled to share my enthusiasm with you, dear readers.
Now, you might be wondering what these fancy acronyms are all about. Well, I’m here to demystify them and show you why IPEN and RON are shaping up to be the future gold standard of notarization.
Defining Notarization: The Foundation
Let’s start with defining notarization. Notarization is the official process of verifying the authenticity of documents and the identity of the individuals involved. Typically, this is done by a licensed notary public, who physically witnesses the signing and stamps the documents to make them legally binding.
IPEN: Notarization first Meets the Digital Age
IPEN, short for In-Person Electronic Notarization, is a method that allows notaries and clients to complete the notarization process using digital tools and electronic signatures, all while automatically creating logging and storing journal info. Some platforms like BlueNotary or other MISMO approved platforms are even sure to keep video storage for 10 years to make sure.
RON: Accessibility Through Remote Connections
On the other hand, RON stands for Remote Online Notarization. RON allows clients to connect with notaries virtually via secure video-conferencing platforms, eliminating the need for in-person meetings. RON has been especially useful during the recent global health crisis where social distancing has become the norm. Funny side note: Did you know that the idea of online notarization was first proposed in the academic paper “Remote-Controlled Machines as Third-Party Witnesses” back in 1995?
I remember back in college when I had to run around campus searching for a notary to authenticate some important documents. If only RON had been a thing back then!
The Advantages of IPEN and RON
So, let’s talk about why IPEN and RON are being hailed as the future gold standard of notarization. For starters, these technologies improve efficiency and convenience for clients and notaries alike. Gone are the days of searching for notary publics using archaic tactics like phone directories or searching for a hidden office in a local shopping center. With IPEN and RON, clients can access notary services from the comfort of their home or office — or even on vacation, if they must, the lucky ducks!
Furthermore, these digital solutions provide an enhanced layer of security through encrypted connections, identity verification, and tamper-evident technology, thereby minimizing risks of fraud and forgery. So, in a way, it’s like having a digital superhero as a safeguard for your most crucial documents.
IPEN and RON benefit notaries as well by autogenerating their journals and providing secure backup and validation of every single thing that happened during the notarization. A smooth IPEN flow will save notaries time organizing their journals and a smooth RON flow, like BlueNotary’s Industry Finest, will save everybody involved hours of their lives.
The Future of Notarization: Embracing Digital Solutions
Despite reluctance from traditionalists, these electronic notarization methods have been gaining widespread acceptance in recent years. In fact, as of now, over 43 states in the United States have enacted laws to authorize IPEN and/or RON, with more surely to follow.
As someone who constantly seeks out life hacks and loves embracing technological advancements, I can’t help but get excited about how IPEN and RON are revolutionizing the notarization industry. With increased accessibility, enhanced security measures, and improved convenience, it’s no wonder that IPEN and RON are paving the way to becoming the gold standard of notarization.