Work Order Template

What is a Work Order?

A work order is a paper or electronic document that outlines a service request or maintenance activity that must be performed. Using a work order template saves time and helps to ensure that information collected is consistent and complete.

The Purpose of a Work Order

Work orders exist to outline the maintenance need, provide instructions, estimate costs, and schedule resources.

How to Format a Work Order

Work orders should be formatted in an easy-to-use manner and contain all the critical information needed to complete the task. The name and contact information of the person making the work order request is usually at the top with the details of the work order following. Be sure to leave room for details and instructions including time parameters and deadlines. An accounting of labor and materials required as well as a spot to record actual usage and hours will follow. Correct formatting is crucial to cost tracking and overall work order processes.

Three Ways to Create Work Orders

Work orders are typically created manually in a spreadsheet document, using a work order generator, or automatically within a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) solution. Let’s take a look at each of these tools.

Using a Spreadsheet

Spreadsheet-based work orders are fast, customizable, and inexpensive. They can be the best solution for smaller or start-up companies.

Work Order Generator

Many companies offer a free work order generator online. These generators prompt the user with a list of questions, making it easy to create a complete document quickly.

CMMS Work Order

Organizations that rely on a CMMS to manage and track their assets can automatically generate work orders. These may be based on a particular preventive maintenance schedule, asset condition, or sensor trigger.

Six Important Fields to Include in a Work Order Template

Most work orders contain common elements. Here are the six most important:

1. Description of Task or Need

Work orders should detail the task or need. The more information provided in this field, the better. It’s important to anticipate the data other users of the work order will need.

2. Name of Requester

Both the name and contact information of the requesting person or individual should be clearly specified. It’s important to be able to contact the requester with additional questions or to communicate problems with completing the task.

3. Estimated Completion Date

The expected completion date helps both the requester and the technician understand time limitations and expectations.

4. Name of Person or Team Responsible for Completing Task

It’s important to have one person accountable for completing the actual service request. Questions about problems, timing or resources can be directed to that individual throughout the process.

5. Location of Activities

The larger the complex or facility, the more important it is to specify the exact location of the service request. This may include building number, room number, or even the location of a particular component of an asset.

6. Prerequisites to Completion

This may include items such as parts, tools, testing equipment, and skill level of technicians.

Three Common Work Order Templates

Preventive Maintenance Work Order Template

Inspection Work Order Template

Safety Work Order Template

Work Order Template Generator and Downloadable PDF

If you’re ready to get started, check out this  work order template generator. Simply fill in all the fields with your company’s specific information and download a free PDF that’s ready to use.

Conclusion

Work orders are critical to staying organized when it comes to managing maintenance or service requests. Regardless of what industry you work in, when a customer request comes in, you want to respond quickly and effectively. Work order templates help you gather and organize all the important information to do just that.