Workorder Processing Overview
The Workorder system is the operational heart of MLS 2026.
Every major activity within the business ultimately connects to the workorder process.
The workorder serves as:
•The communication document between your shop and the client
•The instruction sheet for technicians
•The source of accounting transactions
•The foundation of vehicle service history
•The basis for inventory tracking
•The source for recommendations and follow-up services
•The final legal invoice and receipt
Because of this integration, MLS 2026 is designed around an “enter once, apply everywhere” philosophy.
Information entered into the workorder automatically updates all related areas of the system.
The Professional Image
A well-prepared workorder reflects directly on the professionalism of your business.
Clear, organized, computer-generated documents:
•Improve customer confidence
•Reduce misunderstandings
•Improve internal communication
•Strengthen legal protection
•Improve technician efficiency
•Create a permanent service history
Professional estimates and invoices communicate that your shop:
•Is organized
•Tracks details carefully
•Emphasizes quality
•Maintains accurate records
•Operates using modern business systems
Typical Workorder Flow
Although every shop operates somewhat differently, the normal workflow follows this sequence:
1.Create an Estimate
2.Select or add the Client and Vehicle
3.Record customer concerns and requested services
4.Obtain estimate approval/signature
5.Print a Technician Worksheet if desired
6.Convert the Estimate into an active Invoice
7.Add parts, labor, and recommendations during service
8.Post payments or receivables
9.Print the final invoice
10.Close the workorder
When the workorder is closed, MLS 2026 automatically updates:
•Accounting
•Vehicle history
•Client history
•Inventory
•Recommendations
•Payroll tracking
•Reporting systems
•Follow-up reminders
•Service schedules
Estimates, Invoices, and Counter Sales
MLS 2026 supports several workorder types:
Estimates
Used to present proposed work and pricing before repairs begin.
Invoices
Used to finalize completed repairs and collect payment.
Counter Sales
Used for inventory-only sales that do not involve labor operations.
Each type uses the same core workorder system while adjusting the workflow appropriately.
Technician Worksheets
Technician Worksheets may be printed from the workorder to provide:
•Labor instructions
•Parts information
•Service details
•Inspection forms
•Internal notes
These worksheets often contain information intended for internal shop use rather than client presentation.
Technicians may also record notes directly on the worksheet during the repair process.
Integrated Vehicle Intelligence
The MLS 2026 Workorder system includes integrated access to:
•Previous service history
•Deferred recommendations
•Preventative maintenance schedules
•CARFAX service history
•Client information
•Vehicle details
•Inspection checklists
•Follow-up scheduling
This allows the service writer to make informed recommendations while developing the workorder.
The Workorder Development Screen
The Workorder Development Screen is the main operational area where all services, parts, labor, recommendations, payments, and related activities are managed for the active repair order.
The next sections explain:
•The Primary Workorder Manager
•The Workorder Development Screen
•General Information entry
•Client and Vehicle selection
•Parts processing
•Labor processing
•Recommendations
•Totals and payments
•Technician worksheets
•Workorder revisions
•Closing procedures
•Printing and delivery options
in complete detail.
[TEditFormControlObj]