Vendors

University of Washington departments are authorized to place most purchase orders directly with the vendor by using the confirming order process.

Departments may have an individual identified to work with vendors on acquiring items. Upon entering into negotiations with potential and perspective vendors, this department representative becomes an agent of the University of Washington and, therefore, responsible for complying with all ethical guidelines and sound purchasing controls.

In circumstances where the purchase will exceed the dollar limit for a confirming order, departments rely on the purchasing knowledge and commodity expertise of a "Buyer."