Example: Change Order (CO)

Change orders (sometimes referred to as variations or variation orders) are used to request modifications or changes to the scope of work, planning, and specification in a construction project. Variations may give rise to additions or deductions from the contract sum, and adjustments to the completion date.

Creation Stage

The client wants to request a different window style for the new building extension. The project manager raises a change order against the project on behalf of the client. The project manager adds the additional cost to the change order, and specifies the number of additional days to add to the contract length. The project manager then submits the change order for approval.

Review Stage

The architect receives an email notification with a request to approve the change order. The architect adds recipients to the submittal. In this example, the architect adds the contractor assigned to the project. The architect may also add additional people working on the project as information-only recipients, such as the client. The architect then approves the change order to allow the contractor to add their response.

Response Stage

The contractor receives a notification, with a request to approve the change order. If the contractor is an external contact, they can use the link in the email to access the contract item. The contractor chooses to accept or reject the change order, and then submits their response.

Completion Stage

The project manager receives an email notification when the contractor has responded to the change order. The project manager then selects one or more responses in the completion stage as the final outcome, or they can enter their own response. The project manager then completes the item, and the respective parties receive a completion email notification, with a link to review the information.