Web-based system changes how orders are processed

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ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. (AFPN) --  Individual mobilization augmentees have a new way to get military orders through a Web-based system.

Air Reserve Order Writing System-Reserve, which began Oct. 1, allows IMAs to initiate the orders process from any computer worldwide. Units can start using the system as early as Nov. 1, said Air Force Reserve Command officials.

"My maiden voyage into (the system) was great," said Col. Rune Lillquist, an IMA assigned to 59th Maintenance Squadron at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. "It was easier than my first try at (the Web Orders Transaction System). I found the multiple-choice selections very helpful."

The Web Orders Transaction System was the previous program used by IMAs to generate military orders. They can continue to access it for past duty information but must request all new orders through the new system.

The new system combines the old system and three existing personal computer-based systems to process reservists' orders.

"(The new system) will revolutionize the way orders are published throughout this command," said Col. Deborah Suski, AFRC comptroller. "Commanders will have visibility of their troops' (temporary duty) to include the cost and what operations they are supporting."

After a request has been entered into the system, the program automatically routes it through all the necessary channels. The program also checks for funding and any required waivers at the beginning of the process.

It allows reservists, commanders and people in the base finance office and orderly room to check the status of the orders throughout the entire process.

"(The new program) will provide the Air Force Reserve Command 100-percent accountability of our assigned forces while on active duty," said Col. Roxane Towner, readiness management group commander. "It will integrate the IMAs and unit reservists into one orders system, giving the command complete visibility over our reservists."

Besides giving the command a way to account for its reservists, the new system provides active-duty commanders and supervisors visibility into the process with a report capability.

"Not only did I accomplish the process of transmitting my request for orders more rapidly than with WOTS but I also had a draft copy to validate the process to my supervisor and to keep in my records," Colonel Lillquist said.

The program is not new to the Department of Defense. The Naval Reserve and the Marine Corps Reserve currently use the system.

For more information, people can call the system’s help desk at DSN 497-0522, commercial at (478) 327-0522 or toll free at (800) 223-1784, Ext. 0522, 1455 or 1258. (Courtesy of AFRC News Service)