Procurement Policy

In April 2023, USask implemented a new Procurement Policy that provides clear guidance for purchasing goods and services across the university, while aiming to reduce administrative burden across all areas and functions. The policy supports the university's mission while promoting transparency, fairness, accountability, risk management, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

The policy helps the university:

• Improve stewardship of financial resources.
• Increase consistency in procurement practices.
• Support informed purchasing decisions.
• Leverage preferred supplier agreements and existing university resources.
• Promote sustainable and efficient use of resources.

With approximately $480 million spent annually on goods and services, strong procurement practices help ensure the university achieves the best value while meeting its operational and strategic needs.

Modernized Digital Resources

Enterprise Procurement launched a refreshed digital presence in PAWS, creating a centralized channel for procurement information, tools, and services.

The Procurement Services channel provides easy access to:

• Procurement processes and procedures.
• Preferred supplier information.
• Purchasing guidance and resources.
• Training and support materials.
• Forms, templates, and service information.

By bringing these resources together in one location, the university has made it easier for faculty and staff to find the information they need and navigate procurement processes.

Preferred suppliers agreements

The university expanded its network of preferred supplier agreements, including collaborative contracts established with Saskatchewan Advanced Education Collaborative (SAEC) partners. As new preferred supplier agreements are added, communication will be issued to campus partners.

These agreements help:

• Improve value for money.
• Reduce duplication of procurement efforts.
• Increase purchasing efficiency.
• Support alignment with public-sector procurement requirements.
• Provide access to competitively sourced goods and services.

The Procurement Project has created a stronger foundation for procurement across USask by improving policies, simplifying access to information, and enhancing purchasing practices. These improvements support better service delivery today while preparing the university for future enterprise system modernization.