Definition
A work order is a formal document provided by a using department to request the completion of specified work. It outlines the necessary tasks, responsibilities, and often includes details such as the location, time frame, and resources required. Work orders can be utilized in various fields such as maintenance, repair operations, manufacturing, and services to ensure tasks are tracked and completed efficiently.
Examples
- Maintenance Work Order: A facilities management department issues a work order to repair a broken air conditioning unit in a building.
- IT Support Work Order: An employee submits a work order to the IT department to install new software on their computer.
- Manufacturing Work Order: A manufacturing team creates a work order to produce a batch of products according to specified designs and processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should be included in a work order?
- Detailed description of the work to be completed
- Location of the worksite
- Required tools and materials
- Estimated time frame and deadlines
- Assigned personnel or departments
2. How are work orders prioritized?
- Work orders are typically prioritized based on urgency, impact on operations, and resources available. High-priority work orders might address critical safety issues or major operational disruptions.
3. Can a work order be modified once issued?
- Yes, work orders can be modified to reflect changes in scope, timelines, or resource availability. However, such modifications must be communicated clearly to all involved parties.
4. What is the difference between a work order and a purchase order?
- A work order pertains to maintenance and operational tasks, while a purchase order is related to procuring goods and services from external vendors.
5. How are work orders tracked and managed?
- Work orders can be tracked and managed using software tools that provide status updates, management oversight, and historical records for future reference.
Related Terms
- Request for Proposal (RFP): A document issued to solicit proposals from vendors for specific services or projects.
- Preventive Maintenance: Routine maintenance tasks intended to prevent unexpected equipment failures.
- Asset Management: Systematic process of operating, maintaining, and upgrading physical assets effectively.
- Project Management: Practice of initiating, planning, executing, controlling, and closing work to achieve specific goals.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Maintenance Planning and Scheduling Handbook” by Doc Palmer
- “The Complete Guide to Maintenance and Repair” by Marshall Cavendish
- “Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling” by Harold Kerzner
- “Physical Asset Management: With an Introduction to ISO 55000” by Nicholas Anthony John Hastings
Fundamentals of Work Order: Operations Management Basics Quiz
### What is a work order?
- [x] A formal document requesting the completion of specified work from a using department.
- [ ] A payment request for services rendered.
- [ ] A purchase agreement for buying equipment.
- [ ] An employee training schedule.
> **Explanation:** A work order is a formal document used to request specific work to be completed from a using department.
### Who typically issues a work order?
- [ ] Customers
- [x] Using departments within an organization
- [ ] Suppliers
- [ ] External auditors
> **Explanation:** Work orders are typically issued by using departments within an organization to request specific tasks or services.
### What information is commonly included in a work order?
- [x] Detailed task description, location, timeline, and resources needed
- [ ] Employee salaries
- [ ] Vendor contracts
- [ ] Inventory levels
> **Explanation:** Common information in a work order includes a detailed description of the task, location, timeline, and required resources.
### What is the priority of a work order often based on?
- [x] Urgency and impact on operations
- [ ] Length of the work order
- [ ] Employee preferences
- [ ] Manager’s availability
> **Explanation:** Work orders are often prioritized based on urgency and their potential impact on operations, ensuring that critical tasks are handled promptly.
### Can a work order be altered after it has been issued?
- [x] Yes, it can be modified as needed
- [ ] No, it is final and unchangeable
- [ ] Only if approved by the CEO
- [ ] No, but a new one can be created
> **Explanation:** Modifications to a work order can be made to reflect changes, but these must be communicated to all relevant parties.
### What type of work might be requested in a maintenance work order?
- [ ] Hiring new staff
- [x] Repairing broken equipment
- [ ] Designing a new logo
- [ ] Marketing campaign planning
> **Explanation:** Maintenance work orders typically request the repair of equipment or facilities.
### What distinguishes a work order from a purchase order?
- [x] A work order requests work to be completed; a purchase order requests goods or services from vendors.
- [ ] They are the same and used interchangeably.
- [ ] A work order is used for payroll management.
- [ ] A purchase order initiates internal tasks within an organization.
> **Explanation:** A work order is used for completing work, while a purchase order is used for procuring goods or services from vendors.
### Who is responsible for completing tasks described in a work order?
- [ ] The issuing department
- [x] The assigned personnel or department specified in the work order
- [ ] External contractors
- [ ] The organization's CEO
> **Explanation:** The assigned personnel or department specified in the work order are responsible for completing the described tasks.
### How are work orders often managed in modern organizations?
- [ ] Through verbal communication
- [x] Using software tools and systems
- [ ] Via handwritten notes
- [ ] Through public announcements
> **Explanation:** Modern organizations often use software tools to manage work orders efficiently.
### What key aspect ensures the effectiveness of a work order system?
- [ ] High cost of implementation
- [ ] Lengthy descriptions
- [x] Clear communication and tracking
- [ ] Limiting the number of work orders
> **Explanation:** The effectiveness of a work order system is largely dependent on clear communication and efficient tracking of tasks and progress.
Thank you for studying the comprehensive definition of work order in operations management, and testing your knowledge with our challenging quiz. Keep refining your understanding for operational excellence!
