University Business Processes

HRD700 - Introduction to University Business Processes

The first workshop in a series informing employees about each of the University’s major business processes, Introduction to University Business Processes uses lectures, group discussions, case studies, and exercises to introduce participants to the concepts, policies, and practices that shape the business environment at Northwestern.

Key Points

• Identify major components of the University’s business operations
• Understand the roles and responsibilities of administrative support
• Distinguish between different fund types
• Describe key internal control and financial security practices and procedures
• Apply sound business practice concepts to executing University business

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HRD710 - Acquiring Goods and Services

The second workshop in a series informing employees about each of the University's major business processes, Acquiring Goods and Services focuses on the purchasing process in its entirety. Hands-on exercises, lectures by University experts, and discussions of real-life situations enable participants to understand the concepts needed to process orders correctly. Introduction to University Business Processes is strongly recommended before this workshop.

Key Points

• Understand how acquiring goods and services fits into the University structure
• Recognize the importance of documenting receipt of goods
• Become familiar with the process for returns, vendor credits and cancellations
• Identify and implement the key elements of the payment process
• Learn how to select and use a variety of vendors

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HRD720 - Accounting and Reporting Processes

The third workshop in a series informing employees about each of the University’s major business processes, Accounting and Reporting Processes is ideal for employees working with non–sponsored program financial reports and accounting services. Participants learn about the services offered by the Office of Budget Planning and the departments under the Controller’s Office, including Financial Systems, Accounting Services, and the Bursar’s Office. Introduction to University Business Processes is strongly recommended before this workshop.

Key Points

• Identify the roles and responsibilities of the Controller’s Office and the Office of Budget Planning
• Learn how to access and understand financial statements generated by CUFS
• Learn to interpret data on budget statements (FM160, FM162)
• Learn about the following forms and when to use them: Requests for Accounting Correction (RAC), Intra-Institutional Voucher (IV), Transfer Voucher (TV), Journal Voucher (JV), Request for New Account, Request for Budget Appropriation Change (RBAC)

**$50 no-show/cancellation fee. CUFS number required to register.**
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HRD730 - Effective Business Operations: A Guide to Internal Controls

Effective Business Operations helps University employees to effectively and efficiently administer operations; keep reliable financial records; produce accurate reports; comply with University policies, procedures, laws and regulations; and safeguard University assets. Prerequisites: none.

Key Points

• Find out what can happen if adequate controls are not in place
• Learn the key control elements and how they relate to one’s job
• Obtain a self-assessment tool to evaluate internal operations
• Identify whom to contact with questions or concerns about business operations

**$50 no-show/cancellation fee. CUFS number required to register.**
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HRD740 - What Should I Do? NU Standards for Business Conduct*

This workshop takes an ethical point of view of the major policies and procedures guiding the University’s work flow. In a highly interactive and informal environment, participants review key points and do’s and don’ts, then learn how to recognize potential problems and where to go for answers.

Key Points

• University employment
• Sexual harassment and discrimination prevention
• Confidentiality
• Representing the University; conflict of interest
• Purchasing and vendor relations
• Travel, entertainment, and gifts
• Proper accounting
• Proper use of University assets and network and computing resources
• Copyright and trademark infringement

*NU Standards for Business Conduct is offered as part of NEO Part 2 so if you are registered or plan to register for NEO Part 2, you do not need to attend this session.
**$50 no-show/cancellation fee. CUFS number required to register.**
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For more information, please contact Human Resource Development at 847-467-5081 or training@northwestern.edu.