As a follow up to the previous announcement, we wanted to issue a reminder that under University Policy FN05, the Competitive Bidding process is required whenever a purchase of goods or services will be greater than $10,000. This policy ensures that the University meets its regulatory requirements for spending under federal and state research awards and demonstrates the University’s commitment to fiscal responsibility to students, donors and other constituents. Please remember to plan for enough time in your purchasing process to complete these requirements, so that you can obtain your goods or services in time to meet your department’s needs.
Spending with local and diverse businesses is an institutional priority. The University has established goals, some as part of the Plan for Pitt, to support community and economic development by increasing spending with local and diverse businesses. Conducting the competitive bidding process along with the public posting of solicitations and minimizing the use of directed or sole source suppliers supports these goals by increasing the opportunities for local and diverse companies and allowing them the chance for business that they may not have been aware of or had previously.
Directed or sole source justification forms (DSSJFs) will be reviewed for true sole or directed sources. If the DSSJF does not reflect a true sole or directed source or does not include evidence of a competitive bid, it will not be approved by Purchasing Services and your purchase request will be returned.
Learn more about the additional benefits that competitive bidding offers and information about all purchases on the PPT Website.
For any questions, please contact Purchase, Pay and Travel Customer Service.