Work Order
A work order is the shop-floor execution instruction that MES creates for each unit or lot to be produced. It specifies which mBOM revision to build from, which routing steps to follow, which materials to consume, and which quality checks to perform. Each work order is tied to a specific approved configuration in PLM.
Why it matters
Work orders are the traceability link between the engineering record in PLM and the physical build event in the factory. Without a formal work order tied to an approved mBOM revision, the as-built record is disconnected from the as-designed record — the gap that produces ungoverned builds and unrecoverable traceability.
Related concepts
External References
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Cite this definition
Finocchiaro, Michael. “Work Order.” DemystifyingPLM PLM Glossary, 2026, https://www.demystifyingplm.com/glossary/work-order