This guide provides suppliers with a step-by-step process for responding to eSourcing activities in oboloo.
It explains how to access the supplier portal via an email invitation, log in using a unique access code, and review the sourcing activity details.
You will learn how to:
✔ Answer supplier questionnaires and requested information
✔ Submit pricing information
✔ Upload supporting documents
✔ Submit your final response
This guide is designed to help suppliers navigate the eSourcing process efficiently, ensuring responses are accurate and meet the buyer’s requirements.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Accessing the Invitation
You will receive an email invitation from the buyer organization.
The email contains a link to the oboloo supplier portal and a unique access code for access.
Step 2: Logging into the Supplier Portal
Click on the link in the invitation email.
Enter the access code from the email to log into the supplier portal.
Once logged in, you will be taken to the sourcing activity page.
Step 3: Reviewing the Sourcing Activity
The Activity Summary provides an overview of the project, objectives, and deadlines.
If pricing is included, check the currency in which you need to submit your response.
Review any supporting documents provided by the buyer, such as technical specifications or contracts.
Step 4: Understanding the Different Sections of the Sourcing Activity
Activity Information Tab
Contains detailed information from the buyer about the sourcing event.
Documents can be viewed or downloaded, but no response is required.
Invited Contacts Tab
Shows who from your organization has been invited to the activity.
If multiple contacts are listed, you can collaborate on a single response.
Requested Information Tab
Displays specific areas where the buyer requires a written response.
Click View under the Actions menu to begin answering.
Each requested section has detailed buyer instructions available.
Questions Tab
Contains questionnaires requested by the buyer.
Click the edit icon next to each item to open the questionnaire.
Answer each question under all categories provided.
Pricing Tab
If pricing information is required, go to this tab.
Enter unit prices, shipping costs, tax amounts, and product details.
Ensure pricing is accurate before submission.
Total amounts will update automatically at the bottom of the table.
Supporting Documents Tab
Allows you to upload required supporting documents such as certifications, contracts, or proposals.
Click Attach Document, select your files, and ensure they are in the correct format.
Buyer-provided documents are also listed under the Client Provided Supporting Documents table.
Chat Tab
Allows you to message or receive messages from the client who invited you to the sourcing event directly on the oboloo platform. If a message is sent by yourself to the client, they will be able to view it within their side of the oboloo system and will be notified that you have sent them a new message. If your client sends you a message, you will also receive a notification via email.
The Announcements tab on the chat panel is a one-way chat channel. The company who invited you to the sourcing event can send you messages on this channel as well as attachments, however you cannot respond in this channel. All other invited suppliers to the sourcing event receive the same messages via this channel. This channel is typically used for updates or communications that need to be sent to all suppliers included in the event at the same time (e.g. updates or clarifications to sections of the event).
Change Log Tab
Tracks any changes made to the activity.
If multiple users from your organization are responding, you can review updates made by your team.
Step 5: Reviewing and Submitting Your Response
Before submitting, double-check all responses for accuracy.
Navigate through each tab to confirm all required sections are completed correctly.
Click Submit to finalize your response.
Important: Once submitted, you cannot make any further edits.
Step 6: Confirmation and Notifications
After submission, a confirmation message will appear.
You will receive an email confirmation that your response has been successfully submitted.
The buyer is instantly notified of your submission.
You can log back into the portal at any time to review your response.
Key Considerations & Best Practices
✅ Check the Deadline – Ensure your submission is made before the closing date.
✅ Collaborate Effectively – If multiple users are responding, coordinate updates to avoid duplicate work.
✅ Review Before Submitting – You cannot edit your response once submitted, so double-check all entries.
✅ Upload Correct Documents – Ensure all requested documents are attached in the right format.
✅ Monitor for Updates – Buyers may send follow-up messages after submission, so check your email and portal notifications.
Additional Resources
📌 Related User Guides:
Responding to a Reopened Sourcing Activity – How to update and resubmit your response if the buyer reopens the activity.
Collaborating as a Team on Supplier Responses – How multiple team members can contribute to a single response.
📌 Need Further Help?
If you experience issues submitting your response, contact the buyer directly for clarification or reach out to oboloo Support.