Contract Review Process

The contract review process can range anywhere from two business days to several weeks. The content and estimated value of the contract determine how many steps may take place in the review. We recommend starting this process as early as possible. 

Please include a Contract Request Form (CRF) with each contract you submit to the Olin Finance and Accounting Services Department. You can find the contract request form at the bottom of this article. The CRF provides an overview of what product or services are being sought, the anticipated cost, whether it was budgeted, contract dates, vendor selection information, etc. This form is designed to guide the review process and to outline the relevant information for reviewers and approvers.  Below is a list of common elements that may increase the complexity of a contract review and subsequent negotiation:

• University data is involved
• Technology that will require support from WUIT or integration with WU systems
• Content creation (copyright law, WU trademark licensing)
• Estimated contract value exceeds $25,000

Accounting staff can coordinate with the necessary WashU Departments (Resource Management, OGC, Olin’s Financial Analyst, etc.) and can act as the direct liaison with the vendor for contract adjustments if the department prefers. If your department works with or anticipates working with a supplier frequently, we can work to establish a Master Service Agreement (MSA). With an MSA in place, each subsequent project or Statement of Work is easier to execute.