Unique Identifier
A serial number or code linking the change order to the master contract and permitting straightforward record reconciliation.
Using a formal Additional Work Order reduces disputes by documenting scope changes, cost impacts, and schedule updates in writing.
Signatures are required from the parties authorized under the original contract—often the client and the contractor—so routing to the correct approvers is essential.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Initiator | Project Manager submits the draft change order. |
| Reviewer | Contract Administrator reviews for compliance with contract terms. |
| Approver | Client or authorized signatory approves costs and schedule. |
| Recorder | Project control logs the signed order into the document repository. |
A serial number or code linking the change order to the master contract and permitting straightforward record reconciliation.
A precise statement of work that details tasks, deliverables, locations, and acceptance criteria so both parties agree on deliverables.
Itemized costs, hourly rates, material quantities, taxes, and whether the amount is an estimate or fixed price for invoicing clarity.
New start and completion dates and explicit notes on how the change affects existing milestones, penalties, or incentives.
Any alterations to payment terms, warranty, indemnity, or insurance requirements triggered by the additional work.
Printed names, titles, dated signatures, and witness or notary details if required by state law or contract terms.
Attach vendor quotes, time estimates, and material lists to substantiate pricing and avoid later disputes.
Include revised Gantt excerpts or milestone maps to show explicit changes to timeline and dependencies.
Maintain a brief revision history summarizing previous orders, approvals, and version dates for auditability.
Save executed orders as PDF/A for long-term storage; retain native DOCX for editable records when needed.
Ensure the chosen platform supports your contract's evidentiary needs and regulatory obligations before relying on electronic execution.
Submit change requests promptly when impacts are discovered to preserve entitlement to cost recovery.
Set a defined review window (e.g., 5–10 business days) to prevent open-ended approvals.
Record an approval due date to trigger escalation and avoid unauthorized performance.
Align invoice submission with approved effective dates to ensure timely payment processing.
Update project schedules and budget logs within 48–72 hours after signature to keep records current.
Originator documents scope change and attaches supporting estimates or drawings.
Contract and project controls verify allowable scope and estimate accuracy.
Authorized signatory reviews and signs or requests revisions to the proposed order.
Project team updates schedules, budgets, and issues a work release based on the signed order.
| Document Type | Change Order | Amendment | Purchase Order |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | modify scope | alter contract terms | authorize procurement |
| Authoritative Effect | operative when signed | operative when signed | operative when supplier accepts |
| Typical Signers | client & contractor | contracting parties | buyer and vendor |
| Timing | post-award | any time with consent | pre-procurement or during order |
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
The project manager initiates change orders, documents scope and schedule impact, and coordinates internal reviews. Their entry must reflect operational details so work crews and subcontractors can act without ambiguity.
The contract administrator validates entitlement, verifies budget availability, recommends pricing approaches, and ensures that executed orders align with master contract terms and procurement rules.
A construction manager documents extra excavation due to unforeseen soil conditions
An IT project requires additional integration work after a scope review