09/20/2024
By Sharon Anne Mapes

We are pleased to announce the implementation of the Buyways Repository module (BRM) for creating, storing, and managing various types of agreements. This new system is intended to streamline our contract management process, ensure proper record retention, and provide a centralized location for all signed agreements. By utilizing BRM, UML will improve approval work flow, enhance tracking capabilities, provide legal and PCI compliance, and notify users of contract expiration dates. The BRM will also assist in ensuring that only those with signing authority are signing contracts/agreements on behalf of UML. Please email controller@uml.edu for guidance and access to the BRM.

The Controller’s Office is now directing all non-sponsored projects generating income (selling a product and/or providing services). Please email controller@uml.edu for guidance or help with the required form needed to establish an income account.

The University Travel Policy has an explanation guide available here. The Bank Card Standards was updated on June 1, 2024 and reflects the Concur changes. Please review the finalized Business Travel and Expense Policy with 2023-2024 updates. Please refer to this training video. UMass sends out a Travel and Expense Newsletter with very important updates, please review this and share with colleagues.

Super User Tips:

  • Commodity and account codes can be easily obtained using the UPST Crosswalk.
  • Check out the UML Financial Systems Blog for important Summit updates.
  • All travel that is not booked through Concur must be registered in Healix before travel. Simply email your itinerary to UMass.trips@healix.com from your uml.edu email address. Please put your uml.edu email address in the subject line if you are emailing from a personal email address.

Stay Tuned:

  • We are currently in the testing phase of implementing DASH-a new option for human subject payments. Please contact us if you would like to test DASH, this option for researchers is economical, easier to manage, and provides more options for recipients.
  • The per diem rates for federal travelers and those traveling on government contracted business will be raised in 2025 by the GSA (General Services Administration). The new fiscal year begins Oct. 1 and includes a $110 standard lodging rate (up $3) and a $68 standard meal/incidental allowance (up $9). Standard rates apply to all destinations in the U.S. except for 292 areas labelled as non-standard which have higher per diems.

For any questions, kindly contact the Controller’s Office at controller@uml.edu.
We are now located with Student Financial Services at:
Controller’s Office
220 Pawtucket St., Suite M30
Lowell, Massachusetts 01854