leadership is focusing especially on improving the integration of technological platforms into their operation to help with making more data-informed decisions. “We use Unimarket as our e-procurement system. It’s integrated with Ellucian’s Banner system that [we] use as the ERP system across campus. Unimarket’s suite of products includes purchase requisitioning, contract administration, sourcing, and invoicing modules – a full B2B suite of tools supporting our department,” Altemose explains. The university’s logistics department oversees central receiving, courier services and warehouse operations, employing Lean principles to optimize processes and enhance safety.Warehouse operations include both the storage of items for internal customers as well as the intake and sale of surplus property, which is a great revenue stream for the university. Technological investments like SC Logic, a software that the university uses for warehouse and surplus INTEGRATING CONTRACTS, INVENTORY, AND TECHNOLOGY Once vetted, actually working with a supplier involves a defined contract review process where business and legal provisions are negotiated before services begin. Lehigh has several different contracts for different situations. There are basic contracts for simple terms and liability coverage, Professional Services Agreements that cover more complicated service purchases, and finally, the robust Master Service Agreement for any facilities, IT, or construction vendors providing services for the university. Between these different contracts, the university ensures that all bases for any kind of service to be rendered are covered. Lehigh also expertly leverages technology, including e-procurement systems and ERP software, to streamline operations and make data-informed decisions. With so many moving parts to the operation, Lehigh’s Proud partner of Lehigh University www.pepsico.com Create more smiles with every sip and every bite 296 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 5, ISSUE 03
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