PDF: after signing the PDF file is no longer interactive

[GianottiA]

Good morning, and excuse my poor English (I use DeepL)

I have created two interactive PDF pages, i.e., with button fields and 3D images: the first page is obtained via InDesign (20.1x64) with interactive PDF export option, while the second, which contains 3D images, is obtained from Solidwroks' Composer 2021 via its PDF export options.

I merge them via Acrobat Pro latest version, and so far no problem, everything works as I want (although some adjustment/correction is needed).

The problem arises when I submit the document for review and approval by my boss: if the document is correct he affixes his signature which is nothing but an image file... but after that the PDF is no longer interactive!!!

How can I get around this inconvenience?
If it is not possible to prevent the PDF from becoming “passive” after this, what other method can I use so that my boss can somehow affix his initials or signature to the document without it losing its interactive characteristics?

Tanx.

[Tariq Ahmad Dar]

HI @GianottiA, 

Thanks for reaching out and for the detailed information on your question. 

I would want to know how you shared the file with your boss, how he signed the document, and which application he used. If the file uses an e-signature, it is expected. If the document was signed with a third-party app, it may have been flattened, losing the interactivity. 

Wait for more input from the experts on this

~Tariq

[GianottiA]

Hi,

the file was shared by simply putting it in a shared folder on the network; the document was signed with the signature function of Acrobat Reader.

I understand then that I need to use another method to have the document verified, as suggested by try67: “They should use a comment or image field, not Fill & Sign or a digital signature.”

I think we will proceed in this way: my boss will put a simple stamp (Acrobat stamp function) with “APPROVED” or not depending on whether there are corrections to be made or not, then later I will affix the signature of mine as an image field.

Thank you all.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

[try67 · Accepted solution]

They should use a comment or image field, not Fill & Sign or a digital signature.