---
title: "Purchasing"
canonical: "https://facultystaff.clas.uconn.edu/space/CFSKB/29044932628/Purchasing"
format: markdown
---
The [CLAS Business Center](https://facultystaff.clas.uconn.edu/portal/124?autoLogin=true) helps faculty and staff purchase goods and services while following <u>[University purchasing policies and procedures](https://purchasing.procurement.uconn.edu/home-2/)</u>. The Business Center can advise you on the appropriate purchasing method, help initiate purchases, and coordinate with University Purchasing when needed. 

For questions about University purchasing procedures, please <u>[open a support request](https://facultystaff.clas.uconn.edu/portal/124?createRequest=true&portalId=124&requestTypeId=824?autoLogin=true)</u> with the Business Center or contact your department administrator. 

## Common Purchasing Requests 

The Business Center can assist with: 

- Purchasing goods and services

- Contract review before signing agreements with external vendors

- Questions about purchasing methods and University procedures

- Account information and WebFOCUS financial reports

Note: For computers, software, and other information technology purchases, please <u>[contact CLAS Information Technology (IT)](https://facultystaff.clas.uconn.edu/portal/21?createRequest=true&portalId=21&requestTypeId=224?autoLogin=true)</u> before placing an order. 

## Purchasing Methods 

The University offers several purchasing methods depending on the type of purchase, funding source, and dollar amount. The Business Center can help you determine which method is appropriate for your purchase. 

### HuskyBuy 

<u>[HuskyBuy](https://solutions.sciquest.com/apps/Router/SAMLAuth/UConnFullSuite)</u> is the University’s preferred purchasing system and should be used whenever possible. It provides access to approved vendors and contract pricing for many commonly purchased goods and services. 

<u>[Learn more about HuskyBuy.](https://kb.uconn.edu/space/FPB/26666663970/HuskyBuy)</u> 

### Purchase Orders 

Purchase orders are used to purchase goods or services from approved vendors and for certain contractual services. Additional review may be required when working with a new vendor. You may also use purchase orders for personal services, such as consulting, photography, and equipment maintenance. 

<u>[Learn more about purchase orders.](https://kb.uconn.edu/space/FPB/27195899957)</u> 

### Procurement Card 

The <u>[procurement card (PCard)](https://purchasing.procurement.uconn.edu/home-2/purchasing-card/)</u> is a University-issued purchasing card available to eligible employees who have completed the required training. PCards are typically used for allowable purchases that cannot be made through HuskyBuy. 

### Research Participant Payments 

Faculty conducting research may request advances or other payment methods for participant incentives. Additional approvals and documentation may be required. 

## Vendor Payments 

Payments for services provided by external vendors may be processed through several different methods depending on the type and amount of the purchase. The Business Center can help determine the appropriate process.