Each contract in EvergreenWorx Contracts moves through a structured lifecycle, represented by a defined set of status values. These statuses help users and stakeholders understand the current state of the contract, drive workflow automation, and control when certain actions (such as approvals or renewals) are permitted.
This article explains each available status and when it should be used during the contract lifecycle.
Status Definitions and Usage
| Status | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Draft | The initial status of a newly created contract. | When the contract is being authored or prepared and not yet submitted for review. |
| In Review | The contract is under internal or external review. | When the contract is ready for stakeholder input and collaboration has begun. |
| Signed | The contract has been signed by all parties but is not yet active. | After the eSignature process has completed but before the effective date. |
| Active | The contract is in effect and enforceable. | Once all signatures are completed and the effective date has been reached. |
| Expired | The contract has passed its end date and is no longer in effect. | When the expiration date has passed and the contract is not renewed. |
| Expired – Active | The contract has expired but is still actively being used or enforced. | When the contract continues to be used under an informal or agreed extension. |
| Terminating | The contract is in the process of formal termination. | When a termination process has been initiated but is not yet finalized. |
| Closed | The contract has been completed and all obligations are fulfilled. | When the contract ends successfully, either through completion or termination. |
| Canceled | The contract was voided or withdrawn before execution. | When the contract is not moving forward and should be archived. |
Transition Guidelines
- Draft → In Review: When ready for stakeholder input
- In Review → Signed: When all signers have completed the process
- Signed → Active: Upon reaching the effective date
- Active → Expired: Upon reaching the expiration date with no renewal
- Active → Terminating: When formal termination is underway
- Terminating → Closed: Once termination is complete
- Any → Canceled: When the contract will not proceed
Understanding and properly using status transitions ensures accurate lifecycle tracking, reliable reporting, and effective workflow automation across contract records.
