In Buildend, change orders can be created in two ways:
By converting a Potential Change Request (PCR) into a change order
By creating a change order directly, without first creating a PCR
The choice depends on how you want to manage documentation, review, and approvals for changes.
1. Creating a Change Order With a Potential Change Request
Use this method when changes need to be tracked, reviewed, and priced before being formally issued as a change order.
Workflow:
Start with a Potential Change Request
PCR goes through review and approval process
Once the PCR is in a Closed/Approved state → convert it into a Change Order
All costs, references (RFIs, tasks), and supporting documentation flow automatically into the change order
Keeps a full history linking the PCR to the final change order
Benefits:
Provides traceability of the entire change process
Useful for changes requiring input from subcontractors/vendors (RFQs)
Maintains a clear audit trail for owners and stakeholders
2. Creating a Change Order Without a Potential Change Request
Use this method when the scope, cost, and impact of the change are already well-defined and don’t need a preliminary PCR stage.
Workflow:
Navigate directly to Financials → Change Orders
Click + Create Change Order
Select type: Prime Contract CO, Subcontract CO, or Purchase Order CO
Fill in details, add schedule impacts, references, and line items
Approve to make the change order active and billable
Benefits:
Faster process for straightforward changes
Ideal for smaller changes or when prior review/quotations are not needed
Less documentation overhead
Key Differences at a Glance
Feature | With PCR | Without PCR |
Starting Point | Potential Change Request | Directly in Change Orders |
Approval Needed Before CO | Yes, PCR must be Closed/Approved | No, created directly |
Traceability | Maintains full link to PCR and references | References can still be added manually |
Use Case | Complex changes requiring review/quotations | Simple or well-defined changes |
Speed | Longer, structured workflow | Faster, direct entry |
Choosing the Right Method
Use With PCR for major or complex changes that need review, collaboration, or vendor input.
Use Without PCR for straightforward or urgent changes where costs and scope are already known.