DEFINITION

A standing/open order is a Purchase order which has been issued to a vendor, against which specified purchases may be made for a specified period of time. When repeated purchases of the same type of supply items are expected, multiple purchase requisitions may be eliminated by submitting one purchase requisition to establish a standing/open order. This request must be accompanied by a justification memorandum. Standing purchase orders are issued for supply type items and services only.

JUSTIFICATION

Request for standing/open orders are approved by the Director of Purchasing, provided they are sufficiently justified. Purchases made by the standing/open order method are often more expensive, and should be considered carefully.