Purchasing Manual

The Carnegie Mellon University Procurement Services Policies and Procedures Manual identifies the policies and procedures applicable to purchasing goods and services at Carnegie Mellon University. It was developed to promote the use of good business practices, to ensure that the University meets government requirements, and to limit the University's risk and liability exposure. Because Carnegie Mellon receives substantial research funding from federal agencies, the University is obligated to maintain a federally approved purchasing system. It is important that all buyers and Commodity Managers understand government rules and regulations pertaining to purchasing with government funds, as well as University purchasing policies and procedures, and University accounting policies and procedures. Commodity Manager and buyer compliance with the guidelines contained herein is imperative in providing a more efficient, effective and consistent purchasing process, achieving related University goals and determining responsibility and accountability. In addition, some departments have more restrictive purchasing procedures. Buyers should be familiar with the procedures of their department and adapt the guidelines in this manual to departmental specific requirements, as necessary.