Costing, Pricing and Approval Tool (Phase 1 & 2)

What were the objectives of the project?

The Costing, Pricing and Approval (CPA) tool for external funding was launched on 8th April 2015 and supports the implementation of a newly approved policy and procedure.

The project delivered:

• Stable, robust reliable solution
• Capturing accurate costing and pricing data and managing the transaction process in accordance with ANU policies, procedures, guidelines and framework
• Enabling accurate cost recovery for funded research.
• Establishing a systematic workflow that delivers extended business process management while eliminating security risks and enforcing compliance needs.

Delivering improved services

The project provided an online solution that standardised the method to costing projects across the University. The tool's automated and streamlined approval process facilitates timely decision making by delegates and:

• calculates research project price to the funds provider inclusive of ANU minimum indirect costs
• includes a 'save' function to allow researcher to work at their own pace in developing a budget
• recognises that some funders have fixed indirect cost recovery rates.

What it means for staff

The policy and procedure for Costing and Pricing of Externally Funded Research Projects, University Consultancies and Commercial Services came into effect on 1 April 2015.

FAQ’s are provided https://services.anu.edu.au/information-technology/software-systems/costing-pricing-approval

Support and assistance

Support is available through the IT Service Desk.