This course advances senior-level expertise in federal program management through systems thinking and life-cycle management, emphasizing the integration of strategic goals, systems engineering, and logistics to lead complex programs in alignment with FAC-P/PM Senior-Level standards.
Overview
Syllabus
Module 1: Managing the Federal Systems Environment
- Understand the federal acquisition environment and stakeholder roles in program contracting.
- Define program needs through concepts of operation, requirements analysis, and scope planning.
- Develop core planning documents (e.g., Statements of Work, cost estimates, schedules) in compliance with federal standards.
Module 2: Orchestrating the Acquisition Plan
- Formulate an acquisition strategy that aligns with program objectives and risk considerations.
- Select appropriate contract types and procurement methods to support the program plan.
- Incorporate risk management and policy requirements into a comprehensive acquisition plan, including drafting effective SOW, PWS, or SOO.
Module 3: The Pre‐Award and Source Selection Process
- Prepare solicitation packages and evaluation criteria in accordance with the FAR and agency guidelines.
- Conduct source selection activities: evaluating proposals, determining competitive range, and managing discussions.
- Apply best-value decision-making techniques and documentation to select contractors and award contracts.
Module 4: Executing the Contract
- Oversee post-award contract administration and contractor performance against requirements.
- Manage contract modifications, change control, and issue resolution during contract execution.
- Ensure deliverables, quality standards, and stakeholder expectations are met through effective contract oversight and communication.
Module 5: Service and IT Contracting Needs
- Adapt acquisition strategies for service contracts and information technology projects.
- Develop performance-based work statements and service level agreements to measure contractor performance.
- Address unique considerations for IT procurement (e.g., technology upgrades, security requirements) and align them with program needs.
Module 6: Putting It All Together
- Execute a capstone project that integrates planning, solicitation, and contract management for a complex program scenario.
- Synthesize all contracting concepts into a cohesive procurement approach from initiation to contract closeout.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of contracting strategies in meeting program objectives and regulatory compliance.