Finalizing Drafts
Learn how to finalize approved drafts and convert them to executed contracts.
3 min read
Updated 1/30/2026
Once a draft is approved, you can finalize it to convert it into an executed contract in your DealView library.
When to Finalize
Finalize a draft when:
- All required approvals are received
- The contract has been signed by all parties
- You're ready to track it as an active contract
Finalization is Permanent
Once finalized, a draft becomes a contract and cannot be converted back. Make sure all terms are final before proceeding.
Finalizing a Draft
- Open an approved draft
- Click Finalize button
- Confirm the action
- The draft is converted to a contract
What Happens During Finalization
When you finalize a draft:
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Contract Created | New contract record in your library |
| AI Analysis | Contract is queued for AI analysis |
| Metadata Transfer | Draft info (parties, dates, value) copied |
| Draft Archived | Original draft marked as "Finalized" |
| Audit Trail | Finalization logged with timestamp |
Post-Finalization
After finalization, the new contract:
- Appears in your Contracts page
- Undergoes AI analysis for data extraction
- Is indexed for search and filtering
- Can be tracked for renewals, obligations, etc.
Uploading Signed Version
If you have a signed copy:
- Finalize the draft first
- Go to the new contract page
- Upload the signed PDF
- The signed version replaces the draft content
E-Signatures
Use DealView's e-signature integrations to send contracts for signing before finalization. The signed document is automatically associated with the contract.
Exporting Before Finalization
You can export the draft before finalizing:
- Open the approved draft
- Click Export
- Choose format (PDF or DOCX)
- Share with counterparty for signature
Batch Finalization
For multiple approved drafts:
- Go to the Drafts page
- Filter by "Approved" status
- Select multiple drafts
- Click Finalize Selected
Canceling Instead of Finalizing
If a deal falls through:
- Open the draft
- Click Archive
- Add a reason (optional)
- The draft is archived without creating a contract
Troubleshooting
Can't finalize?
- Verify the draft is "Approved" status
- Check that all required approvals are complete
- Ensure you have permission to finalize
Missing data after finalization?
- AI analysis may take a few minutes
- Check the contract after analysis completes
- Verify variables were filled in the draft