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MCONNECT FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I become a University of Michigan supplier?
The University of Michigan purchases an extensive list of supplies, equipment, and services. Vendors desiring to sell products and services should complete the MConnect Vendor Registration form. Once the University of Michigan receives your completed form, you firm will be added to the MConnect vendor database. This does not guarantee that you will receive business or a request for quotation. Items may only be purchased occasionally, be covered under existing contracts, or not meet the University of Michigan's requirements at the time the purchase is considered.
When meeting with the buying staff, please be prepared to discuss your level of distribution, bonding capability, line cards, references, and any other information you feel will help the buyer understand your company's capabilities, products, and services.
What does the University of Michigan buy?
The University of Michigan buys a variety of goods and services. A number of items are obtained through University of Michigan contracts. Items currently under contract are listed on the University Contracts page. Most purchases under $5,000 are made by departmental staff using University Ccontracts, purchase orders, or P-Cards (University credit cards). Purchases of items $5,000 and over are handled by Procurement buyers and are generally competitively bid.
How do I find a diversity vendor?
One resource is the federal database for contractor registration. This database provides nationwide queries at no charge to the user.
I've looked for a vendor and can't find one in the commodity I need. What do I do?
Contact Procurement Services at mconnectteam@umich.edu and title the email request "Assistance with Vendor Search".
Who do I contact if I have questions about the MConnect Program?
University of Michigan faculty and staff should contact the MConnect Chairperson. Vendors should register by completing the MConnect Vendor Registration form and, after our review, we will provide you with the appropriate contact information for the goods and services we are interested in discussing with you.
Can I schedule a meeting with someone to discuss my company’s goods or services?
After the vendor registration process we will determine if there is a need/demand for your services. Once it is determined that there is a need for your product or service you will be contacted as to the next steps or activities required. Many times contact is not made by a buyer until a contract is up for competitive bid, so it could take as long as several months or years before a vendor hears from a buyer.
Who at the University can sign official documents?
University of Michigan departmental faculty and staff are not authorized to sign contracts on behalf of the University of Michigan. Signature authority for contracts and agreements has been delegated to the Director of Procurement Services and is further sub-delegated to the Procurement Services buying staff. The Procurement staff coordinates the processing of all contracts and agreements that require authorized signatures. The University of Michigan Office of General Counsel also must review documents, so please allow adequate time for this process.
How is a vendor paid?
Vendors are to mail invoices directly to the Accounts Payable office (the address is printed on the Purchase Order [ PO]). All invoices must have a valid University of Michigan PO number for payment. The payment terms are 30 days from the date of the invoice. Payments for $10,000 and above are not finalized until a department representative approves the payment. All invoices must be original
Payables will not make payments based on a faxed invoice. All invoices must be original.
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