Understanding the Awake Ordering Process
Process & Planning
Understanding the Awake Ordering Process
Every great project starts long before production begins.
One of the most common questions we receive is, “What is the lead time?” While manufacturing lead times are certainly important, the reality is that a successful project begins long before an order enters production. From quoting and shop drawings to finish approvals and installation planning, there are several key steps that help ensure projects move smoothly from concept to completion.
The Process, Step by Step
It Starts With the Quote
Every Awake project begins with a quote prepared by one of our Authorized Dealers. Quotes are developed using plans, window and door schedules, site measurements, and project takeoffs. As projects evolve, scope changes are common — design revisions, opening size adjustments, and specification updates can all impact the timeline. To help maintain accurate pricing, proposals are valid for 30 days.
Drawings Matter
Before manufacturing can begin, shop drawings must be completed and approved. Drawings confirm design intent, dimensions, configurations, and project details. Taking the time to carefully review drawings helps prevent costly changes later in the process and ensures everyone is aligned before fabrication begins.
Customization Requires Planning
Many Awake projects feature custom configurations, specialty options, or unique finishes. Custom finishes often require sample creation and approval before production can begin. Certain custom options may also require additional engineering or fabrication time. Discussing these selections early with your dealer or Awake representative can help identify opportunities to reduce lead times.
Change Orders Can Impact Schedules
Once an order has been released to production, modifications become significantly more complex. Even minor revisions can require portions of an order to be stopped, re-engineered, or reworked — often resulting in additional costs and adjustments to scheduled ship dates. The best way to avoid these challenges is to finalize designs, dimensions, and specifications before releasing an order into production.
Why Ordering Early Matters
Material shortages, supplier delays, transportation disruptions, and quality control rejections can all impact schedules. While Awake works closely with its manufacturing partners to minimize disruptions, placing orders early remains one of the most effective ways to protect project timelines. Our commitment to quality means materials not meeting our standards are rejected and replaced rather than accepted simply to maintain a schedule.
Delivery and Installation
Once production is complete, Awake coordinates delivery to the address identified on the order acknowledgment. Whenever possible, direct delivery to the project site can help reduce handling and minimize the potential for damage. Upon arrival, products should be stored properly and protected from jobsite conditions. Coordinating installation details early helps ensure a smooth transition from delivery to completion.
“The most successful projects share one thing in common: preparation. Understanding these stages helps project teams make informed decisions that keep schedules on track and minimize surprises along the way.”
At Awake Window & Door Co., our goal is not simply to manufacture exceptional products — but to provide the guidance and support needed to help every project succeed from start to finish.