01/19/2023
By Eileen Trott

The updated Contract Request process and form will go live on Monday, Jan. 30, 2023!

This update will drive increased contract processing efficiency and compliance. To ensure a seamless transition to this enhanced form, UPST will implement a blackout period.

Below are some questions and answers to help guide you through the transition process.

When is the contract request blackout period?
The blackout period will start Monday, Jan. 23 and end on Friday, Jan. 27.

What does a "contract request blackout period" mean?
This means that you will not be able to submit or approve any new or incomplete contract requests. UPST's focus during this period is to clear existing contract requests to ensure that this change does not impact you, our stakeholders, negatively.

What is the last day UPST can receive a new and approved contract request?
All contract requests should have campus (department, budget, fund, etc.) approvals on or before noon Friday, Jan. 20. Any contract request that is incomplete or does not have full campus approval in BuyWays after that time will need to be restarted when the form reopens on Monday, Jan. 30.

Can I submit an amendment/renewal/SOW/MSA during go-live blackout?
No.

What happens to my requests that are under review by UPST during this transition period?
Fully approved Contract Requests received before Friday, Jan. 20 will be reviewed/processed by UPST as normal.

Are there any additional dates to note?

  • New Contract Process Go-Live: Monday, Jan. 30, 2023
  • Information Sessions for UMass Amherst, UMass Lowell, UMass President’s Office will be offered on:
    • Jan 24, 2023 2 p.m.
    • Jan 27, 2023 10 a.m.
    • Jan 31, 2023 9 a.m.
    • Feb 2, 2023 2 p.m.
    • Feb 7, 2023 2 p.m.
    • You can choose to attend one or more of these sessions. Register now.

Please reach out to upst@umassp.edu if you require any additional information on this project and the impact of the blackout period.