Contract Managemet

Supply Management Services is authorized by the Board of Trustees of Cornell University to negotiate and implement university-wide contract pricing agreements that will provide the university with "least total cost" for products and services required from external suppliers. These formal supplier contract-pricing agreements have been negotiated to take advantage of the university's significant buying power. Contract suppliers are expected to provide "most favorable pricing" to the university and offer agreed-upon contract pricing to all university units and affiliates.

Formal university-wide pricing agreements are awarded to suppliers that can satisfy the university's business requirements while providing value, service, and support to university faculty and staff. The Office for Supply Management Services and "preferred suppliers" will collaboratively market the value and benefits of each new contract to all university faculty and staff members. This collaborative marketing effort will focus on "contract acceptance and supplier utilization" by meeting or exceeding customer expectations.

When negotiating new supplier agreements, The Office for Supply Management Services considers suppliers' ability to:

• Provide a "most favorable pricing" structure to be available to all university units and affiliates 
• Provide quality products and service, performance and responsiveness, timely delivery and customer service 
• Provide training and support as required
• Provide an acceptable product exchange and return policy
• Provide support for and compatibility with university purchasing systems and technology
• Provide favorable payment terms
• Demonstrate financial stability 
• Satisfy all university business requirements