The best work order software for field and maintenance teams

Work order management software (also known as computerized maintenance management system) is designed to help teams create, assign, and track tasks tied to specific jobs or service requests. The best work order software allows teams to add client information, job locations, and key details on the scope of projects. Drag and drop tasks, gauge resource utilization, create invoices, and ensure teams are on the same page with seamless communication right from the app. 

While you can manually track work orders, using work order software is more efficient. Maintenance managers can use a work order management system to improve operational efficiency and gain significant cost savings with:

• Inventory management

• Equipment maintenance

• Task management

• Asset management

• Facility management

• Property management

• Recurring maintenance tasks and deadlines

• Maintenance data collection

• The ability to better track work requests

The best work order management systems can help you assign tasks, track progress, and streamline maintenance and operational tasks.

The key difference between job orders and work orders is that job orders are broader and work orders are more specific. A job order outlines the initial job requirements and scope of work (i.e., maintenance tasks, preventative maintenance, etc.) From there, a work order fills in the specifics, like resources needed, timelines, and instructions. 

A work order tracking system can help with both work and job orders for better maintenance scheduling, more accurate maintenance histories, decreased equipment downtime, and a more efficient use of labor hours.

The work order cycle is the process from creating to completing a work order. An example of a  work order cycle could be:

1. A request comes in

2. Creation of the work order

3. Approval of the scope of work

4. Creation and assigning of tasks

5. Execution of said tasks

6. Closing the job down completing the work order

To master the work order cycle, outline work order management processes for your team, choose the right maintenance work order software, and optimize maintenance operations for better preventive maintenance, fleet management, and maintenance history tracking.

Creating a work order depends heavily on the specifics of the work order itself. However, most work orders will require you to log the request details, assign it to the right person, set a priority and due date, and include any instructions needed to complete the job.