eProcurement is a PeopleSoft Financials module, accesible via MySlice, that was implemented in 2005 as part of the SUnRISe project.  One of its features provides electronic requisitioning. The on-line requisitioning system can be used for order placement of goods and/or services and sends requisitions through an electronic approval process.

Benefits of eProcurement:

• Easy access: to preferred suppliers and best pricing.
• Automate: streamline purchase through payment process.
• Order Status: provides real time access to requisition status.
• Special request requisition is used for any goods or services that need to be ordered in place of the paper requisition.
• Direct connect to supplier's web catalogs through eProcurement.

Direct Connect
In an effort to streamline your business operations and maximize value, Syracuse University’s Purchasing Department is working to provide integrations to external catalogs of strategic partners for institutional purchases. This provides a direct connection to the supplier’s web catalog with contract pricing. External catalogs are currently available for Fisher Scientific (lab supplies), Dell Computer (computers and accessories), Apple Computer (desktop and notebook computers),  and Staples Advantage for office supplies. 

The move to Dell’s Volume Purchase Agreement has allowed the University to offer two “big buy” periods through ePro each fiscal year, saving several hundred thousand dollars per year in direct savings for departments.

Karla Salmonsen, purchasing agent for office products says, “There are tremendous savings for everyday supplies by using the contract available through the eProcurement module. However, many employees think that, by purchasing through the Staples website with their procurement card, they are receiving the discount, which is not true. Contract pricing is only available through the external catalog via PeopleSoft. “ 

Some examples of the price differences are: