PPS Updates HBP 7.7.5 and 7.7.7

Procurement and Payment Services has updated the following HBPs to ensure better understanding and alignment of practice across campus.  The following is a summary of the updates made to the noted HBPs.

 

For additional information department are invited to contact the Central Purchasing Office at purchasing@austin.utexas.edu for further assistance.

 

7.7.5 Blanket Purchase Order primary change is to have a maximum term and total value that will cover all payments that may be issued over the life of the blanket purchase order.

  • Blanket purchase orders allow for recurring purchases of a specific service or commodity when the quantity or frequency of delivery cannot be fully determined at the time the purchase order is initiated. 
  • Added requirement that all blanket purchase orders must contain verbiage specifying the contract period or length of the purchase order.
  • List unit price
  • Blanket purchase orders must also list the maximum total value of the purchase order for the entire length of the purchase order. 
  • Departments can continue to complete a blanket purchase order with a total value equal to or less than $15,000, provided the total amount paid over the life of the purchase order is equal to or less than $15,000.
  • Central Procurement will continue to process blanket purchase orders with a total value greater than $15,000.  Any such request shall require a procurement justification based on guidelines regarding informal bids, formal solicitations, or exclusive acquisition justifications.

 

7.7.7 Purchases Eligible Through Multiple Procurement Methods primary change is to clarify requirement that departments follow procurement rules.

  • Departments are reminded the goods and services listed in the HBP may be purchased through a purchase order or a contract. 
  • The requesting department shall be responsible for ensuring they follow the proper procurement method before purchasing. 
Policies and Procedures
May 30, 2024