Support resources and FAQs

What are extension apps?

Think of extension apps as modules, or plugins, that integrate seamlessly with the Docusign Agreement Platform. An extension app incorporates external features into your eSignature agreements or Docusign workflows by making requests to the external API. Once you’ve built an extension app, you can make it available to the entire Docusign global customer base in our App Center. See Extension apps 101 overview for more information.

How are extension apps different from existing Docusign API integrations?

By integrating with Docusign APIs, you can incorporate Docusign functionality into your app. By building extension apps, you can create custom capabilities and bring them into the Docusign agreement process via specific extension points. Some examples of extension points include eSignature agreements and steps in Docusign workflows, such as an envelope being sent or a document being signed.

What user permissions are needed to create extension apps?

Anyone with admin permissions in a developer account can create extension apps.

Who can use extension apps?

Admins from any organization can install apps. To install on the demo environment, a developer account is required. To install on the production environment, a production account is required. Private apps can only be viewed, installed, and used by accounts specified by the app’s developer.

How can extension apps be used in Docusign workflows?

Extension app functionality can be invoked from eSignature agreements and from Workflow Builder. The Workflow Builder API empowers customers to build and deploy streamlined agreement workflows, seamlessly integrating Docusign capabilities and external services. Customers can install an extension app to their Docusign account, and then configure workflows to trigger the extension app at the appropriate step in the workflow. To learn more, read about extension apps in the developer documentation.

Why should I develop extension apps for Docusign agreement workflows?

Building extension apps enables you to provide tailored solutions, automate processes, and streamline agreement workflows for Docusign users. By distributing your apps on the App Center, you can expand your reach over 1.4 million Docusign customers.

What technologies do I need to know to create extension apps?

At a high level, building extension apps requires developers to have a sound understanding of HTTP protocols, server-side programming languages (for example, Python or Node.js), cloud hosting platforms, OAuth authorization protocols, and more. They will need to set up a publicly accessible endpoint (URL) to receive incoming extension payloads, parse and process JSON data, and execute specific actions or workflows. For more information please read the extension app documentation.

Does Docusign provide developer tools for building extension apps?

Yes. The Docusign Developer Console enables developers to create, test, and manage extension apps, as well as submit them for a review process that’s a prerequisite for publishing them to the Docusign App Center. See Developer Console overview for more information.

How do I test my extension app before deployment?

Developers can use the Dev Console testing feature to simulate and validate the behavior of their extension apps within Docusign agreement workflows.

Can I take a course to learn how to build and publish extension apps?

Yes, Docusign University offers a self-paced course: Build Extension Apps for the Docusign App Center.

I have a technical question about building extension apps. How can I contact technical support?

Please visit the Docusign Developer Community for information and assistance.

What are my options for publishing extension apps?

You can choose to publish your app in public mode, which makes it available to all Docusign customers, or in private mode, which makes it available only to Docusign accounts you specify.

What is the process for publishing extension apps to the Docusign App Center?

Once your extension app is ready, you can submit it for review. After it has passed the Docusign review process, you’ll be able to list it on the Docusign App Center.

Can I monetize my extension apps on the Docusign App Center?

Currently, the Docusign App Center does not support direct monetization of extension apps.

How can I stay current with extension app development best practices and updates from Docusign?

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