Contract Resources

Getting Started With A New Contract

A contract is an agreement that defines the terms of a transaction between two parties (e.g., a payment, the provision of a service, access to property or a resource, etc.). Contracts help the parties set up and remember the expectations for the transaction. When you identify a need for a contract, here is how to get started:

Financial Officer

Most contracts include financial obligations. Because of this, coordinating with your college's financial officer is a great place to start the contract process. Each financial officer has access to university-approved contract templates that can be used to accelerate the preparation and execution of a contract.

Contracting Unit

After coordinating with your financial officer, contact the University unit responsible for the type of contract that you need. The following list includes USU's primary contracting units and the types of contracts with which they work:

• Purchasing and Contract Services - purchase contracts
• Division of Sponsored Programs - sponsored research and service agreements
• Real Property Administration Office - real estate contracts
• Technology Transfer Services - intellectual property licenses or commercialization contracts
• University Advancement - donations and gift agreements
• University Marketing and Communication - trademark merchandise agreements
• Risk Management - liability waiver contracts
• Office of Global Engagement - international contracts

If the type of contract that you need is not listed above, contact the Office of General Counsel.

Timeline

Recognize that preparing a contract can take time. Sometimes simple contracts based on University templates can be produced in a matter of minutes. Unique transactions often require the preparation of a tailored contract.

Request Contract Assistance

The Office of Legal Affairs provides legal services to University departments. If you have questions relating to contract drafting, negotiation, termination, or compliance, please feel free to contact us.

Contract-Related Policies

• Policy No. 528: Contract Signature Authority and Delegation
• Policy No. 529: Procurement Policy
• Policy No. 581: Cost Transfers for Sponsored Projects

Frequently Asked Questions

To view frequently asked questions relating to contract drafting, negotiation, termination, or compliance, please view our FAQ page.