Distribution orders are created when a person or group requests one or more documents. Requests for documents can be conveyed via various methods to the person or group responsible for completing the requests, for example, typically a message or instruction is sent requesting that one or more documents be sent to one or more persons. In each case, these requests result in a distribution order that records all of these details. The requests are subsequently satisfied by distribution transmittals. Note that one cover sheet may be generated per transmittal.

AssetWise keeps records of who received document copies, when the copies were issued, when the copies must be returned, and a number of other relevant attributes. AssetWise allows recipients to acknowledge receipt of a transmittal.

When a document hard copy or electronic Master is returned, you can update the database to indicate that the document copy has been returned. You can then destroy the document copy or specify a storage location for the copy. The copy can then be re-distributed later.

Generally, a Distribution workflow is as follows:

1. Create a Distribution List. (optional)
2. Create a Distribution Order.
3. Create Distribution Items.
4. Create a Transmittal containing the Distribution Items.
5. Issue the Transmittal.

For information about configuring distribution orders and transmittals, see "Distribution" in the ALIM Web Implementation Guide.

This chapter describes the tasks related to distribution lists, orders, and transmittals, in ALIM Web.