How to Create Work Order

Last reviewed: June 9, 2026

llms-full.txt
On this page

Create a work order when production needs to build a manufactured part through the normal PAX manufacturing workflow.

When to use this workflow

Use this workflow to create a new Draft work order for a BOM parent part. After the work order exists, use separate workflows to issue materials, record labor, record scrap, and receive finished goods.

Do not create a work order just to correct inventory quantity. Use the appropriate inventory adjustment or receiving workflow for inventory corrections.

Before you start

Confirm:

  • The finished part exists in inventory.
  • The part has a BOM header in PAX.
  • The planned quantity is known.
  • The due date and priority are known if your team uses them.
  • Component shortages have been reviewed before production starts.

Steps

  1. Go to Dashboard > Manufacturing > Work Orders.
  2. Select New Work Order.
  3. In Part Number (BOM), type or select the BOM parent part.
  4. Enter the planned Quantity.
  5. Review the material availability section.
  6. Enter a Due Date or use one of the date shortcuts if needed.
  7. Set Priority (1-10).
  8. Add Notes if production needs special instructions.
  9. Select Create Work Order.
  10. Confirm PAX displays the new work order number.

What happens behind the scenes

PAX creates the work order in Draft status and assigns a work order number using the WO-YYYYNNNN pattern.

PAX sets the work order router to the part number and creates labor and outside-service operations from matching router steps. Standard operation hours are based on the router step requirement multiplied by the ordered quantity. Standard rates come from the work center when available.

No component inventory is removed when the work order is created. No WIP or finished-good accounting is posted at creation.

The work order becomes eligible for the material issue workflow while it is in Draft status.

Troubleshooting

The part does not appear in the BOM list

Likely cause: The part does not have a BOM header, or the entered search text does not match the parent part or description.

Safe fix: Confirm the part and BOM setup before creating the work order.

Contact support if: The BOM exists but the screen does not find it.

The availability check shows a shortage

Likely cause: Required direct components are greater than available on-hand quantity.

Safe fix: Review purchasing, receiving, or inventory correction needs before issuing materials. Do not bypass lot tracking or inventory movement.

Contact support if: The shortage does not match current inventory.

The work order will not save

Likely cause: The part number is missing, the quantity is not greater than zero, or PAX cannot validate the part.

Safe fix: Select a BOM part and enter a positive quantity.

Contact support if: The input is correct and saving still fails.

Was this page helpful?

Vote *