The Procurement Services PO Center is committed to providing high-quality service and making purchasing at U-M seamless for all customers. A July 2025 article featured best practices, but recurring challenges continue to cause delays and confusion. Here are practical tips to help you navigate forms and procedures to submit requests more effectively:
Review buying methods for non-catalog orders
Processes may vary based on the good or service, total value of the purchase, and payment method. Familiarize yourself with U-M buying methods and confirm all required information is included when you submit a contract or requisition request. For guidance, visit the “Non-catalog Ordering” section of the Procurement Services Purchasing webpage.
Provide complete and relevant information
Many Marketsite+ requests are submitted with incomplete or scattered details. To avoid delays, focus on the following critical information:
- Clear descriptions: Avoid vague instructions like “Sign this” or “Need signature.” Include “what” is being requested and “why.”
- Supporting documentation: Attach relevant documents that demonstrate due diligence, and include justification to articulate best value.
- Complete information: Ensure contact information is correct and request forms titles are brief, yet relevant to the request.
Be proactive about the supplier set up process
Please ensure supplier records are established prior to or alongside your contract submission to Procurement, whenever possible. This helps expedite the processing of contracts and payments. Delays may occur if supplier information is incomplete when your request is reviewed. If you are unsure whether supplier setup is required, or have any questions, indicate this in your contract request in Marketsite+. A Procurement Agent will assist you with determining next steps.
Ensure due diligence of third-party checks
Carefully answer all third-party check questions on request forms. Marking “no” when “yes” is applicable can lead to compliance issues and extra review steps. If you are unsure, refer to the available resources or select “not sure” to flag your request for a Procurement Agent’s review.
By following these best practices and accessing available resources, you can help ensure requests are processed as efficiently as possible.