Case Study: University of Alabama achieves automated, paperless spend management and 183% transaction growth with ESM Solutions

That’s what the University of Alabama gained when it tossed its paper processes for spend management automation with ESM

The University of Alabama moved away from paper-based purchasing that limited visibility, reporting and control, and faced maverick spend and manual reconciliation challenges. To address this, the University engaged ESM Solutions to automate spend management with an intuitive online marketplace and integrated purchasing tied to its Banner by Ellucian ERP.

ESM Solutions implemented a vetted, on-contract supplier marketplace with training, full reporting and seamless Banner integration, giving administrators real-time visibility and better supplier leverage. The results include a 183% increase in transactions (1,380 → 4,030), non-catalog purchase order value growth from $35.9M to $83.4M, a drop in average transaction value ($756 → $628) alongside improved discounts, more rebates, fewer P‑card violations and reduced maverick spend.

University of Alabama

Kevin Stevens

Director of Procurement Services