This Instruction describes how the Procurement Department numbers purchase orders, purchase contracts, or contract and subcontracts. This Instruction applies to all parts of Procurement. The General Buying and Contracts groups use a uniform numbering system for purchase orders or contracts and subcontracts.
Stores uses a different numbering system.
In addition, other Stanford offices which issue contracts may ask Procurement for identifying numbers for contracts. This Instruction is confidential because it explains in detail how numbers are assigned. Procurement manuals distributed to departments without general commitment authority contain a modified version of this Instruction, also numbered SPI 3.21. Contracts A purchase order may be verbal or written, and is distinct from a contract. The purchase order number is built around the Purchase Requisition number, which is six digits long.