Iowa State University Procurement - Commodities: Professional Services

The Regents Policy Manual defines "professional services" as unique, technical, and/or infrequent functions performed by an independent contractor qualified by education, experience, and/or technical ability to provide services. In most cases, these services are of a specific project nature, and are not a continuing, ongoing responsibility of the institution. The services rendered are predominately intellectual in character even though the contractor may not be required to be licensed. Professional service engagements may involve partnerships, corporations, or individuals. Some examples of "professional services" typically utilized at the University include consulting, marketing analysis, banking services, medical/physician services, auditing, software development/design, and editing services. Speakers and entertainers do not require a university Professional Services Contractual Agreement (PSA), unless they represent a conflict of interest.

To respond to the Accountable Government act passed in the 2001 Legislative session requiring greater Contractor accountability, the Purchasing Department will have an increasing role in services contracting.

Policy information can be obtained by reviewing the revised Professional Services Policy.

A new agreement format, called the Professional Services Contractual Agreement (PSA), has been developed and is to be utilized by the departments for professional services acquisitions. Older PSA versions should be discarded.

Overview of Procurement and Payment Process for Professional Service Acquisitions

Professional Services FAQ

Procurement Procedure . . .

To find the best way to procure the goods or services in this category, please answer each of the following questions by clicking [yes] or [no].

Are the services to be provided architectural, engineering, construction management services or specialized consultants related to the planning, design, or construction of university facilities? [yes] [no]

Is the Contractor an independent contractor? [yes] [no]

Is the Contractor, their spouse or minor child an employee of a Regent Institution? are there any individuals, their spouse or minor child, who are employees of ISU or another Regent Institution and also own 5% or more of the Contractor's corporate stock or who are partners in the Contractor's firm? [yes] [no]