The eSourcing Chat function in oboloo allows procurement teams and suppliers to communicate securely during sourcing events.
It supports both private supplier-specific chats and one-way broadcast announcements to all suppliers, ensuring fairness, confidentiality, and efficiency in communication.
When to Use This Feature
Use the chat function when:
You need to answer supplier questions during a sourcing event.
You want to provide updates or clarifications to one or all suppliers.
You need to securely share documents with a supplier during the event.
Step-by-Step Guide – Using the Chat Function
1. Access the Chat Tab
From the sourcing event record, click the Chat tab - this is included in all sourcing activities
Only users with View & Edit permissions for eSourcing can access this feature.
2. Understanding Chat Types
Private Chat – A secure channel between you and a specific supplier.
Broadcast Message – A one-way announcement sent to all suppliers in the event. Suppliers cannot reply.
3. Sending a Private Message
Select a supplier from the list on the left-hand side.
Type your message in the text box.
Click Send or press Enter.
You can attach documents (up to 25MB) — files are stored securely in AWS S3.
4. Sending a Broadcast Message
Click Broadcast Message at the top of the supplier list.
Enter your announcement and click Send.
All suppliers in the event will receive the message, but they will not see other suppliers’ names or be able to respond to you in this channel. This channel can be used to share messages or files to all suppliers at the same time.
5. Notifications
Clients – You’ll receive in-system and email notifications when a supplier sends a new message (limited to once per supplier per 10 minutes to avoid spam).
Suppliers – They will be notified via email when you send a message.
Mute Option – Click the three-dot menu next to a supplier’s name and select Mute Notifications to stop alerts for that chat.
6. Viewing and Downloading Attachments
Files sent in chat appear within the conversation.
Click the file link to download.
File size limit is 25MB; only approved file types are supported.
7. Mobile & Desktop Views
The chat interface is fully responsive for use on desktop, tablet, or mobile devices.
Key Considerations & Best Practices
✅ Use private chat for sensitive supplier-specific clarifications.
✅ Use broadcast messages for general updates affecting all suppliers.
✅ Keep communication clear and professional — all messages are recorded in the sourcing record.
✅ Regularly check unread message indicators during active events.
Additional Resources
📌 Related User Guides:
If you need further assistance, please contact your internal platform administrator for support. Otherwise please reach out to oboloo's support team. If you are unable to view the above area in the oboloo platform, please check your user permissions and access rights.