Overview
Purpose of the Article
The Test Session feature allows users to practice using the Notary Hub platform or demonstrate its capabilities to others without incurring any costs. This guide explains how to initiate a Test Session, invite participants, and understand its limitations.
Who Should Use This Guide
- Notaries who want to familiarize themselves with the platform before a real signing session.
- Individuals demonstrating the platform’s features to potential clients or colleagues.
- Users testing document signing workflows.
Key Takeaways
- How to start a Test Session on Notary Hub.
- How to invite participants and use session features.
- Understanding the limitations of a Test Session.
Prerequisites
Before starting a Test Session, ensure you have:
- A Notary Hub account.
- A stable internet connection.
- A device with a camera and microphone (computer, tablet, or smartphone).
- Access to the "My Signings" dashboard in Notary Hub.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Starting a Test Session
| Instructions | Visuals |
|---|---|
| Log in to Notary Hub and navigate to the "My Signings" page. |  |
| Click the "Test Session" button at the top of the screen. |  |
Join Signing Session
| Instructions | Visuals |
|---|---|
| Before entering, you’ll see a preview screen to test your video feed, microphone, and speakers. |  |
| Click the gear button to adjust settings for audio and video or switch to a mobile device camera. |  |
| If you click "Check Audio and Video" under the gear icon, you can adjust settings as needed and confirm they’re working. |  |
| If you click "Use Mobile Device Camera" under the gear icon, a pop-up will appear with a QR code. Scan this QR code with your mobile device and follow the link to enable audio and video from your mobile device. |  |
| You also have the option to add participants at this step. Click the blue "+ Add a Participant" link. |  |
| A pop-up will appear with fields to add the signer or witness. |  |
| Click "Join Now" when you are satisfied with your video and audio settings and ready to begin the test session. |  |
Enter Test Session
| Instructions | Visuals |
|---|---|
| When you enter the test session you will see talk track information, a button to copy the invite link, a pre-populated test document, a video widget with yourself and any other participants, and a "Show Participant List" button that will bring up a sidebar panel where you can add and manage particpants. |  |
2. Inviting Participants
In addition to adding participants on the Join Signing Session screen, you have two additional options available during the Signing Session.
| Instructions | Visuals |
|---|---|
| First is the "Copy Invite Link" button that will allow you to paste the URL into any 3rd party communication type of your preference. |  |
| Second option is to click "Show Participant List" button. |  |
| Select "+ Add Participant" and a pop-up will appear with required fields for the signer or witness you would like to add. |  |
3. Using Test Session Features
| Instructions | Visuals |
|---|---|
| Click the pre-populated "Notary-Acknowledgment-Form" pdf placeholder document to interact and test signing functionality. |  |
| Practice adding form and signature fields and assigning signers. |  |
| Test the signing process by inserting your digital signature, stamp, and required RON statement to the document. |  |
| After the required fields and signatures have been added, the previously grey "Lock This Document" button will now turn green. |  |
| You will then see a sample Notary Acknowledgement pop-up to review the completed document and confirm all the information is correct. |  |
| After clicking the "Confirm" button, you will return to the session signing page and see the document with a green lock icon next to it. The "Finalize Session" button will also become avaiable to click in green. |  |
Alternative Scenarios
Using a Test Session for Demonstrations
- Ideal for showing new users how to navigate the platform.
- Can be used to practice session management without affecting real signings.
Exploring Platform Features Without Risk
- Test Sessions allow experimentation with document signing, participant management, and other tools.
- Any document signed in a Test Session will include a "SAMPLE" watermark and will not be notarized.
Troubleshooting & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why would I use a Test Session, and does it cost anything to run one?
- A: A Test Session is useful for practicing, troubleshooting, or demonstrating the platform without affecting real signings. It is completely free to use.
Q: How do I send the invite link or add participants once the session has started?
- A: You can copy and share the invite link or use the "Show Participant List" option to manually add participants.
Q: What document is used in the Test Session—can I upload my own?
- A: The Test Session automatically includes a placeholder document, and custom documents can also be uploaded.
Q: Are documents in a Test Session watermarked or otherwise marked as unofficial?
- A: Yes, all documents in a Test Session are marked with a "SAMPLE" watermark and are not legally valid.
Q: Does a Test Session produce any valid notarized documents, or is it purely for demonstration?
- A: It is purely for demonstration and testing purposes. Documents signed in a Test Session are not notarized.
Q: Are Test Session documents stored anywhere if I want to retrieve them later?
- A: No, Test Session documents are not saved for future retrieval.
Q: Does the system record or save the audio/video from a Test Session?
- A: No, Test Sessions are not recorded, and no audio or video data is stored.
Q: How do I end a Test Session, and do I get any sort of summary afterwards?
- A: You can end the session by exiting the interface. No session summary or record is generated.
Q: If I need to troubleshoot or experiment with features like adding fields or stamps, can I do that in a Test Session?
- A: Yes, Test Sessions allow you to experiment with platform features without impacting real signings.
Q: Can I join a Test Session from multiple devices to see how the experience differs?
- A: Yes, you can join from different devices to test the user experience.
Q: Do I need to go through identity verification in a Test Session?
- A: No, identity verification is not required for Test Sessions.
Q: What if I accidentally upload sensitive or real documents in a Test Session—are they secure or accessible to others?
- A: No documents are stored on the system after the test session has concluded.
Q: Does a Test Session support the same features as a real signing session (e.g., screen sharing, chat)?
- A: Yes, most features such as screen sharing, chat, and participant management are available.
Q: Can I use a Test Session to practice scheduling or sending reminders?
- A: No, scheduling and reminder features are not available in Test Sessions.
Q: Will I receive automated emails about Test Sessions, or is all communication manual?
- A: No automated emails are sent for Test Sessions; all communication must be done manually or through the invitation feature.
Q: How do I make sure I’m not mixing up Test Sessions with actual signings in my account?
- A: Test Sessions are clearly labeled, and documents include a "SAMPLE" watermark to differentiate them from real notarizations.
Q: What is a Test Session, and how is it different from a Practice Session?
- A: Both Test and Practice Sessions allow users to practice the signing process without generating real notarized documents. A Practice Session is a required part of the onboarding training process. A Test Session is can be done on-demand.
Q: Where do I find the “Test Session” button, and how do I start one?
- A: The Test Session button is located in the "My Signings" page at the top of the screen. Clicking it will create a pre-populated test session.
Q: Can I invite other participants (notaries, signers, witnesses) into the Test Session?
- A: Yes, you can share the invite link or manually add participants using the "Show Participant List" option.
Q: Can I upload my own document into a Test Session?
- A: Yes custom documents can be uploaded.
Q: Does the platform automatically block me from adding my X.509 certificate in a Test Session?
- A: Yes, X.509 certificates cannot be applied to documents in a Test Session.
Q: Will the documents signed in a Test Session appear in my official Notary Journal?
- A: No, Test Sessions are separate from official notarized sessions and will not be recorded in your Notary Journal.
Q: Can I use a Test Session to show a potential client how the platform works?
- A: Yes, Test Sessions are designed for demonstrations without incurring costs or affecting real signings.
Q: Is there a time limit or participant limit in a Test Session?
- A: No, but excessive use may be restricted based on platform policies.
Q: Can I convert a Test Session into a live notarization if I decide to do so mid-session?
- A: No, Test Sessions cannot be converted into official notarization sessions.
Q: Who do I contact if I have technical issues while in a Test Session?
- A: Reach out to Notary Hub support for assistance with Test Session functionality.
Summary & Next Steps
Key Points Recap
- Test Sessions provide a cost-free way to explore Notary Hub’s signing process.
- Participants can be invited via an invite link or manual addition.
- Documents signed in a Test Session will be marked "SAMPLE" and are not legally valid.
Additional Resources
- Authentication
- [Multi Person Session](Multi Person Session_Notary_02.md)
- X.509 Certificate Setup Guide