Abstract: Methods, software, and devices for requesting approvals for a proposed contract from a plurality of hierarchical decision-makers are disclosed. A plurality of contract parameters of the proposed contract are received. Using the parameters, those decision-makers from whom approval of the proposed contract is required are automatically identified by comparing those parameters to stored approval criteria. An electronic representation of differences between the plurality of contract parameters and a prior-received contract parameters is generated. Identified decision-makers are arranged in a defined hierarchical order. The generated electronic representation of differences is electronically communication to the first identified decision-maker in the hierarchy, as ordered. Approval by the first identified decision-maker is received by electronic notification. Sending the generated electronic representation of differences and receiving approval are repeated for each subsequent decision-maker, as ordered.