A Document Control Number is a unique identifier assigned to a specific document. This alphanumeric code facilitates tracking, retrieval, and management of documentation within an organization. For instance, a standard operating procedure might be labeled “DCN-SOP-001,” where “DCN” indicates its nature, “SOP” signifies the document type, and “001” denotes a sequential number.
The implementation of such identifiers streamlines workflow, reduces errors, and ensures version control. They provide an audit trail, demonstrating accountability and compliance with regulatory requirements. Historically, these numbers were manually assigned, but contemporary document management systems automate the process, enhancing efficiency and accuracy.