Can an electronic signature be used to consent for research?

Answer

Yes, in many cases, an electronic signature process can be used.  If the process being used meets requirements for effective documentation of consent, you do not request a Waiver of Documentation of Consent.  

A Waiver of Documentation of Consent is requested in cases where the agreement to participate cannot be attributed to a verified participant identity.  In other words, the researcher does not know who agreed to participate in the research or it is possible/likely that someone could be misrepresenting who has agreed to participate in the research.