Work-order administration

Administration/processing/costs

The Electronics Department uses three types of work order:

Type 1 work orders are requests, for example for advice, brief instructions, short-term assistance, etc.

Type 2 work orders are used for work such as repairs, inspections, NEN3140 inspections, calibration and provision of assistance.

Type 3 work orders are for more lengthy projects such as detailed preliminary assessment, designing and building prototypes, development of technical software, process automation, coordination of outsourcing, courses of instruction, etc. (see the more detailed explanation under Werkordertype [Types of Work Order]. ).

 

Work-order administration and processing

Administration and processing vary according to the type of work order. Type 1 work orders (Request) can be dealt with relatively quickly and as they arise, since the job in question is of short duration. Obviously there may be cases in which it becomes apparent once the work is under way that a more detailed type of work order is required, such as Type 2 (Assignment) or Type 3 (Project). If this is the case, a more planned approach is required and the work will have to be scheduled between or after other ongoing work. There is usually a waiting period before the work can be done, and the client usually requires a cost estimate or quotation.

 

Projects

In the case of Type 3 (Project) work orders, the first phase involves translating the client’s wishes and requirements into technical specifications for the project to be set up. The technical specifications and project proposal are then discussed with the client. In some cases a preliminary study/examination will be required in order to resolve any uncertainties before work commences. These phases result in a complete project formulation, on the basis of which the client decides whether or not the work should proceed. The staff of the Electronics Department make a critical assessment of the client’s requirements: more modest – but still acceptable – requirements often result in substantial savings in time and material costs.

 

Feedback

In accordance with the requirements of the client and/or the Electronics Department, the client receives regular feedback during the work. If unforeseen circumstances that could hinder the progress of the project arise, the department will contact the client immediately to discuss the problem. This may result in amendments to the project schedule, project formulation, wishes and requirements, and/or the cost estimate.

 

Costs
Costs are calculated on the basis of time and materials. These are usually charged to the client after the work is completed. FTD can issue a cost estimate or quotation for Type 2 and, in particular, Type 3 work orders. In the case of repairs, however, this is often not possible. In such instances, the department makes an agreement with the client to spend a certain number of hours on the repair, and then to assess whether to proceed with the repair work after this.