Buying Methods

Buying Methods

Before you make a purchase, you should consider which of the buying options is appropriate for that transaction. In some cases more than one option may work; however, there is usually one single best option in terms of price, time savings, and administrative costs. These methods are listed below in the order in which you should consider using them.

In addition, the Quick-Start Guide includes helpful information on everything from U-M’s buying processes to training courses, all intended to support your local purchasing efforts!

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Shortcode

U-M business units or university-contracted suppliers that accept Shortcodes for ordering

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M-Marketsite

U-M online catalog ordering system where employees can place orders from many different suppliers

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Quote to Order

Portal to obtain estimates from university suppliers for: mailing, printing, web/graphic design and IT temp staffing

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Purchase Order

The ePro req is the only transaction that you complete in M-Pathways to order goods and services

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PCard

The Purchasing Card (PCard) is a credit card granted to authorized U-M employees

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People Pay

Used to pay individuals for non-appointment-related services