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<< Click to Display Table of Contents >> Navigation: Work Processing > General Workorder Information |
The Workorder system is the operational heart of MLS 2026.
It serves as the primary communication link between your shop, your technicians, your office staff, and your client.
A properly written workorder does far more than simply list services and parts. It:
•Documents the client’s concerns
•Records vehicle condition and service history
•Tracks technician activity
•Integrates inventory and accounting
•Generates recommendations
•Produces estimates and invoices
•Maintains legal and service records
•Reflects the professionalism of your business
A clean, organized, computer-generated workorder presents a far more professional image than handwritten paperwork and demonstrates attention to detail and quality service.
MLS 2026 supports several types of work processing documents:
Estimates allow you to prepare projected parts, labor, and pricing information before work begins.
Written estimates, especially when signed by the client, are strongly recommended.
Once work is completed, the estimate may be converted into a final invoice for billing and payment processing.
Workorders without labor operations may be processed as Counter Sales for quick parts transactions.
Worksheets provide internal service information for technicians and may include:
•Labor details
•Inspection forms
•Internal notes
•Checkoff items
•Information not intended for the customer
The Workorder Development Screen is organized using:
•Tabs across the top
•Buttons that open additional popup functions
•Lookup tools and service utilities
Each tab controls a different part of the workorder process.
The General tab contains:
•Client information
•Vehicle information
•Mileage
•Dates
•Service status
•Vehicle notes
•Job-specific details
Additional tabs manage:
•Parts
•Labor
•Recommendations
•Notes
•Totals
•Payments
•Scheduling
•Service history
•Analysis functions
Although MLS 2026 provides extensive capabilities, the normal workflow is very straightforward.
The first step is usually selecting the vehicle.
Press:
Edit Vehicle
If the vehicle already exists:
•Enter the license plate
•Locate the vehicle in the browse list
•Highlight the vehicle
•Press Exit
•Confirm selection
MLS 2026 will automatically load:
•Client information
•Vehicle information
•Service history
•Existing notes
•Recommendations
•Related records
If the vehicle does not exist:
•Add the new vehicle
•Attach it to an existing or new client record
Once the vehicle and client are attached:
•Use the Phones button to view all contact numbers
•Verify the best contact information
•Confirm communication preferences
Accurate contact information is essential for:
•Approvals
•Status updates
•Text messaging
•Appointment reminders
Be sure to enter:
•Current odometer reading
•Due-out date
•Due-out time
These values are important for:
•Service tracking
•Maintenance schedules
•Reporting
•Client communication
If the workorder begins as an estimate:
•All information entered remains in estimate mode
•Pricing and services may still be revised
The estimate may later be converted into an active invoice once authorization is received.
The Estimate Conversion section later in this manual explains that process in detail.
Always use the Save button after entering or modifying information.
Although MLS 2026 is designed to be very reliable, regularly saving information is an important operating habit.
If the customer may want old parts returned:
•Check the Return Parts option
When uncertain:
•It is generally safer to retain the parts until vehicle pickup
This avoids misunderstandings and potential disputes.
Perform a quick visual inspection of the vehicle when writing the workorder.
Record:
•Existing body damage
•Warning lights
•Tire condition
•Visible concerns
•Special conditions
Use the Vehicle Notes section for these observations.
This protects both:
•The client
•The repair facility
Use the Workorder Notes section to document:
•Client concerns
•Symptoms
•Conversations
•Requested services
•Special instructions
Even if verbal discussions occur during estimate preparation, important details should still be documented within the workorder itself.
Clear written documentation helps:
•Prevent misunderstandings
•Improve technician communication
•Protect the shop legally
•Improve service consistency
MLS 2026 is designed to encourage:
•Thorough documentation
•Accurate communication
•Consistent workflow
•Professional presentation
Well-written estimates and invoices:
•Improve customer confidence
•Reduce disputes
•Strengthen service records
•Improve long-term customer relationships
The following sections explain the individual tabs, controls, utilities, and workflow processes used throughout the Workorder system in detail.