What is Work order?
A work order is the buyer’s written instruction to a contractor to start the work or service awarded, setting out the scope, value and timeline.
What is a work order?
A work order is a formal document from the buyer telling the contractor to carry out specific work or services. It usually follows the award of a tender and states the scope, value, start date and completion period.
For supply of goods, the matching document is usually a purchase order or supply order. On GeM, the system generates a contract for each order.
What it usually includes
In some organisations the LoA itself serves as the work order. In others, the work order is issued after the performance security is received and the agreement is signed.
- Reference to the tender and the contractor’s bid
- Scope of work and quantities
- Contract value and rates
- Start date and completion period
- Site or location, and the officer in charge
- Key terms such as payment, penalties and security
Tips for contractors
Check that the work order matches the LoA and your bid before you start. Note the start date, since delays in starting can lead to penalties.
Keep the work order safe. Together with a completion certificate, it is often used as proof of experience in future tenders.
Common questions
Common questions about Work order in government tenders.
A work order is for works or services, and a purchase order is for goods. Both instruct the contractor or supplier to perform.
Many tenders also ask for a completion or performance certificate, since a work order shows only that work was awarded.
Yes, under the contract terms, for example for failure to start or perform. The contract sets out the procedure.
Let's talk about your workflows
Book a discovery call or send us a message.
We’ll get back to you within one business day.
30 minutes to walk through how your team bids or procures today. No pitch, no pressure—just a focused conversation about your tender workflow.
- See where AI can save your team the most time
- See QuickBid on tenders from your industry
- Get a recommended product and setup
Schedule a discovery call
Tell us about your goals, and we’ll tailor our expertise to fit your needs. Fill out the form below, and we’ll get back to you soon.