Remote Courses

The Statement of Work (SOW) can make or break an acquisition. Writing an effective SOW is essential to achieving best value. Not only will you practice writing each part of the SOW through a hands-on…

The Statement of Work (SOW) can make or break an acquisition. Writing an effective SOW is essential to achieving best value. Not only will you practice writing each part of the SOW through a hands-on workshop, but you will also examine a SOW from a contractor’s perspective. You will learn best practices, analyze legal cases, and recognize the impact your work has on cost, schedule, and quality. You will leave equipped with the ability to write a SOW that reflects actual requirements, elicits competitive proposals, and guides contractor performance.

This three-day course provides contracting personnel who purchase and administer construction contracts a comprehensive review of the overall construction contracting process. Coverage includes…

This three-day course provides contracting personnel who purchase and administer construction contracts a comprehensive review of the overall construction contracting process. Coverage includes contract formation, solicitation, award, and administration. Exercises and case studies will allow participants to practice the skills they learn in the course.

Over the years, a number of agencies have received statutory authority to conduct acquisitions using Other Transactions (OTs). This beginning level course introduces and explains how these Other…

Over the years, a number of agencies have received statutory authority to conduct acquisitions using Other Transactions (OTs). This beginning level course introduces and explains how these Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) may be leveraged to streamline the acquisition process and can be used as an alternative to grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts. Learn what makes Other Transactions so underutilized today and get ready to leave the FAR behind!

Contracting for architect-engineer (A-E) services is challenging. Making a wrong step anytime between publicizing the contract opportunity and closing the contract can pose threats to any organization…

Contracting for architect-engineer (A-E) services is challenging. Making a wrong step anytime between publicizing the contract opportunity and closing the contract can pose threats to any organization. By studying Part 36 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Veterans Affairs (VA) Acquisition Regulations 836.6 and through lecture and exercises, participants learn the general condition and general requirements, as well as the process for advertising, selecting, and managing a contract with an A-E firm.

Contracting professionals must know how to properly use Federally-appropriated funds to be compliant with Federal appropriations law. Guided by GAO’s Principles of Federal Appropriations Law (the Red…

Contracting professionals must know how to properly use Federally-appropriated funds to be compliant with Federal appropriations law. Guided by GAO’s Principles of Federal Appropriations Law (the Red Book), you will learn to comply with relevant laws and regulations, gain a deeper understanding of contracting and procurement activities, and reinforce understanding through scenario-based exercises. You obtain the crucial background, tools, and techniques to make sound decisions concerning appropriated funds back on the job.

Contract administration is comprised of planning, performance monitoring, quality assurance, and other key phases. It poses challenges such as: How do you handle a contract modification? What kind of…

Contract administration is comprised of planning, performance monitoring, quality assurance, and other key phases. It poses challenges such as: How do you handle a contract modification? What kind of oversight does a subcontractor require? You will examine the duties performed by contracting personnel during the administration phase of the acquisition process and improve your knowledge and skills in overseeing contractor performance. You will gain a deeper understanding of contracts for commercial items and those using simplified acquisition procedures.

The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and agency policies encourage organizations to employ Performance-Based Acquisition (PBA) methods. However, there are unique considerations surrounding PBAs,…

The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and agency policies encourage organizations to employ Performance-Based Acquisition (PBA) methods. However, there are unique considerations surrounding PBAs, including standards of quality and methods of surveillance. You will learn the comprehensive process applied to PBAs—from analyzing requirements documents to preparing a Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) with a focus on robust case studies, examples, and exhibits.

Agencies need to tell contractors what to do, not how to do it. This is the guidance according to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 37, which requires agencies to maximize the use of…

Agencies need to tell contractors what to do, not how to do it. This is the guidance according to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 37, which requires agencies to maximize the use of performance-based methods when contracting. You will determine requirements by developing high-level objectives, tasks, and performance standards through this workshop. You will develop a performance work statement and quality assurance surveillance plan using the Acquisition Requirements Roadmap Tool (ARRT), and apply your learning to intensive exercises and activities.

The high potential for numerous issues to arise during construction contracts means it is vital to be able to address and mitigate those issues in their most common form: claims. You will gain a…

The high potential for numerous issues to arise during construction contracts means it is vital to be able to address and mitigate those issues in their most common form: claims. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of recognizing a potential claim, pricing considerations, terminations, and the role of the Civilian Board of Contract Appeals and the courts.

Simplified acquisition procedures reduce administrative costs, promote contracting efficiency, and avoid unnecessary burdens for agencies and contractors. Understanding these methods of procurement…

Simplified acquisition procedures reduce administrative costs, promote contracting efficiency, and avoid unnecessary burdens for agencies and contractors. Understanding these methods of procurement begins with understanding the policies and laws outlined in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 13 and other related parts. You will learn the roles and responsibilities of those who participate in the process, how to buy through the General Services Administration (GSA), ethical considerations, and other intricacies of simplified acquisition procedures.

Selecting the best source for performing the requirements of a contract has a definite impact on the outcome of an acquisition. With high-dollar value, complex, or critical acquisitions, contracting…

Selecting the best source for performing the requirements of a contract has a definite impact on the outcome of an acquisition. With high-dollar value, complex, or critical acquisitions, contracting personnel should use a more structured source selection approach. You will gain the knowledge and skills to make sound decisions using negotiated contracting procedures, as prescribed in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 15. You will practice methodologies and best practices through scenario-based exercises.

Task and delivery order contracts are adaptable and can be beneficial when an agency is unsure of its requirements. Choosing this contract instrument still requires the planning and other…

Task and delivery order contracts are adaptable and can be beneficial when an agency is unsure of its requirements. Choosing this contract instrument still requires the planning and other considerations associated with any contract type. You will gain an understanding of the planning, use, and administration of task and delivery orders, the variety of available contract vehicles, and the process for developing new task and delivery order contracts.

Market research is the foundation of acquisition strategy. Understanding the relevant industry practices, commercial solutions, and potential services that meet organizational requirements enables…

Market research is the foundation of acquisition strategy. Understanding the relevant industry practices, commercial solutions, and potential services that meet organizational requirements enables contracting personnel to make the best choices for their agency. You will learn and apply the basic principles, tools, and methods for performing market research, from defining the term to gathering information to documenting results. A special focus is given to commercial versus developmental products and locating small business sources.

Successful planning for mission-critical contracts requires understanding customer’s requirements and the contracting environment. You will learn how to use the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR),…

Successful planning for mission-critical contracts requires understanding customer’s requirements and the contracting environment. You will learn how to use the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), conduct effective market research, develop alternative acquisition strategies, and identify how various socioeconomic programs support the acquisition planning process. You will gain a holistic understanding of acquisition strategy and how it relates to obtaining best value through exercises and discussions.

Not only do acquisition and contracting specialists need a foundational understanding of Federal contracting policies and procedures, but they must also be adept at navigating and applying FAR…

Not only do acquisition and contracting specialists need a foundational understanding of Federal contracting policies and procedures, but they must also be adept at navigating and applying FAR regulations and guidance. This course focuses on contract formation and management principles, as well as regulatory fundamentals and their application throughout the acquisition process. You will be immersed in the FAR as you address realistic, scenario-based contracting problems and will emerge with the knowledge and ability to execute the entire contract lifecycle — from acquisition planning to contract initiation through contract closeout, and everything in between.

Twenty-first century contracting professionals will need solid business acumen and an advanced understanding of how contractors operate in order to craft better contracting solutions. This course will…

Twenty-first century contracting professionals will need solid business acumen and an advanced understanding of how contractors operate in order to craft better contracting solutions. This course will help you master a wide range of business acumen competencies including industry orientation, organization, cost and financial planning, business strategy/development, supplier management, incentives, and negotiating strategies. This course will provide a thorough understanding of the strategy, finances, operational considerations, and the motivators that drive contractor business decisions.

Contracting for construction comes with its own set of guidelines and approaches. Personnel responsible for construction contracting must understand the nuances of the construction acquisition and…

Contracting for construction comes with its own set of guidelines and approaches. Personnel responsible for construction contracting must understand the nuances of the construction acquisition and contracting phases to successfully obtain goods and services. You will gain the knowledge and skills to contract for Federal Government construction—from acquisition planning through closeout. You will learn how to conduct market research and administer the contract.

Note: This is a FAC-C and DAWIA Level III certification elective course.

The acquisitions environment can be a difficult arena to maneuver for a new employee. You will develop professional skills for making business decisions and advising other acquisition team members to…

The acquisitions environment can be a difficult arena to maneuver for a new employee. You will develop professional skills for making business decisions and advising other acquisition team members to successfully meet customers’ needs. You will work in small group simulation exercises to learn the necessary skills for providing contracting support as an advisor to the government or in the business realm.

Experienced contracting officer's representatives (COR) know that projects can present a variety of challenges and responsibilities. This course will provide refresher training and an update on…

Experienced contracting officer's representatives (COR) know that projects can present a variety of challenges and responsibilities. This course will provide refresher training and an update on contracting principles that can build a strong foundation for future contracting work. You will be faced with various, relevant simulations to test your critical thinking abilities.

Critical thinking skills are imperative when assessing cyber risk throughout the contracting lifecycle. Learn how to safeguard your contracts by understanding today’s rapidly changing cybersecurity…

Critical thinking skills are imperative when assessing cyber risk throughout the contracting lifecycle. Learn how to safeguard your contracts by understanding today’s rapidly changing cybersecurity regulations and their impact on the contracting world. You will become vigilant in watching for any cybersecurity threats and be able to quickly react to any possible breach.

Note: This course is focused on government and contractor systems and the sharing of controlled unclassified information as part of the acquisition process.