Follow PO Center tips to expedite sourcing and contract requests

Purchasing at U-M can be seamless and efficient when you use the right tools and follow best practices. The PO Center offers the following tips—along with key resources—to ensure your requests are processed smoothly and without delay.

Contracts under $50,000 still need review

Procurement Services must review and sign any contract below $50,000, as units do not have signature authority on behalf of the university. Submit these through Marketsite+ and allow sufficient processing time.

• • • Procurement Services Purchasing, under “Non-catalog Ordering”

Submit complete forms in Marketsite+

All sourcing and contracting requests should be submitted through Marketsite+. Be sure to provide detailed information—such as a clear description of the requested scope and complete names and email addresses for all stakeholders. Accurate, thorough forms help Procurement Services process your requests efficiently.

• • • Resources for Navigating the Marketsite+
    • Using the Request Sourcing Event Form
    • Using the Contract Request Form

Attach supporting documentation

While it is not mandatory, one of the best ways to expedite processing time is to include supporting documentation—quotes, invoices/purchase history, peer institution pricing, grant or sponsorship requirements—in your request. If no supporting documentation is provided, procurement agents may need to request additional information, resulting in longer processing time.

• • • Request a Purchase $10,000 – $49,999, under “Provide Justification and Supporting Documentation”

Use the Marketsite+ Communication Center

Once you’ve submitted a request in Marketsite+, a procurement agent will provide updates via the Communication Center within your request. To avoid missing important information, regularly check for updates there.

• • • Communications within Sourcing & Contracting Process

Utilize PCard & Amazon resources

Visit the U-M Procurement Services website for comprehensive PCard & Travel Card and Amazon Business resources if you have any questions.

• • • Amazon Business Account Guidelines and Features, under “Customer Support Resources”

By following these tips and accessing available resources, you can help ensure your sourcing and contracting requests are processed swiftly and efficiently.