Course Catalog

Course covers a wide range of business acumen competencies including industry orientation, organization, cost and financial planning, business strategy/development, supplier management, incentives, and negotiating strategies. Business skills will be learned on aligning company strategies, finances, and operations that motivate company decisions to meet their business goals, gain fair and reasonable profits, while providing best taxpayer value to the government on defense products.

DoD policy now mandates that the acquisition process be conducted through integrated product teams. The employment of integrated product teams in the acquisition process has resulted in the involvement of many non-contracting government personnel. ACQ 370 provides an overview of government contract law, specifically laws and regulations that are applicable to government contracts.

The course focuses on understanding contract formation and management principles, as well as regulatory fundamentals and their application within the Department of Defense. It provides fundamental knowledge and practical application that can be applied immediately in the workplace across the broad spectrum of Department of Defense (DoD) contracting organizations.

The first week develops critical skills necessary to locate, interpret, and apply regulatory guidance in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS); DFARS Procedures, Guidance, and Information (PGI); and DoD Class Deviations. Subsequent weeks focus on the fundamentals of contract formation and management principles, to include the practical application of the FAR/DFARS/DFARS PGI/DoD class deviations to real-world scenarios.

The course begins with a review of market research and contractor pricing strategies. Students will learn to calculate an objective using simple quantitative analysis. The course provides an overview of the regulations and processes for cost analysis, and requiring certified cost and pricing data. Students are also provided instruction on contract financing techniques. Finally, after learning the basic elements of price and cost analysis, students will build and defend a pre-negotiation objective. Students will apply cost analysis techniques during a week two proposal analysis capstone case, including writing a Price Negotiation Memorandum.

The course begins with a review of market research and contractor pricing strategies. Students will learn to calculate an objective using simple quantitative analysis. The course provides an overview of the regulations and processes for cost analysis, and requiring certified cost and pricing data. Students are also provided instruction on contract financing techniques. Finally, after learning the basic elements of price and cost analysis, students will build and defend a pre-negotiation objective. Students will apply cost analysis techniques during a week two proposal analysis capstone case, including writing a Price Negotiation Memorandum.

This course, focusing on contracting for architect-engineers, covers issues across the contracting spectrum, including acquisition planning, source selection, proposal analysis, contract award and work, and contract management. Specific topics and practical exercises allow professionals to gain knowledge of the Selection of Architects and Engineers statue, SF-330, the slate and selection process, the review of government estimates, liability, Title II services, modifications, and contracting officer’s technical representative responsibilities.

This course focuses on unique construction contracting issues, such as acquisition planning, contract performance management, funding, environmental concerns, construction contract language, construction contracting in the commercial setting, the Construction Wage Rate Requirements Statute, design/build, basic schedule delay analysis, constructive changes, acceleration, and construction contract quality management.

Intermediate Cost and Price Analysis continues to build upon the fundamental contract pricing principles covered in the Level I Contracting curriculum, Contract Pricing Reference Guide, and DOD Policy. The course is divided into three segments addressing contract pricing issues from a Pre-Award, Negotiation Preparation-Award, and Post-Award perspective. In the course students will be introduced to quantitative techniques and tools used to quantify and facilitate decision making in determining a fair and reasonable price. Students will apply various cost analysis techniques and quantitative tools to analyze a contractor’s cost proposal and to develop a government negotiation range and objective. The course is designed to prepare students for follow on DAWIA Level II certification courses, serve as a gateway into more advanced targeted contract pricing courses, and give the students some practical tools in pricing government contracts. The ultimate objective of the course is to help students become better business advisors in developing contract arrangements that are in the best interest of the government.

This course builds on the foundation established through the Level I curriculum and the course prerequisites. The primary focus is on the acquisition of services under FAR Part 15 procedures, with an emphasis on performance-based acquisitions (PBA) for services, contract types, contract incentives, source selection, and contract administration. Students will learn the fundamentals of a performance based service acquisition -- from acquisition planning to contract closeout through a realistic case study. The course takes students through the solicitation process using the mandatory DoD Source Selection Procedures. Students will prepare contractual documents, and develop and deliver high-level source selection briefings with recommendations for contract award.

In this case-based course, students apply Contracting concepts and techniques learned in prerequisite courses to meet customer supply requirements and resolve complex Contracting issues. Special emphasis is placed on applying legal concepts from CON 216, intermediate pricing concepts from CON 270, and negotiation techniques from HBS 428. Students experience the full spectrum of Contracting processes and issues by following a supply requirement through all phases of the acquisition life cycle, from acquisition planning through contract close-out. Research, analysis, and communication skills are honed through development and presentation of a critical thinking project requiring in-depth focus on one area of Contracting. Negotiation skills are sharpened through active student participation in two simulated contract negotiations.

Through realistic scenario-based learning, students work individually and in teams to practice developing sound business solutions as a valued strategic and expert business advisor. Students will learn to analyze complex contracting situations with emphasis on critical thinking, problem solving, research, and risk reduction. Student course work is designed to contribute real solutions on real acquisition problems to senior leadership and local supervisors.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn the policies, requirements, and best practices for purchasing sustainable products and services.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs) and Grants Officials
Course Description: Learn how to use the Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System (FAPIIS) to make appropriate decisions to evaluate potential contract and grant awardees.

In this module, you will learn about the procedures for placing orders for supplies and services against Multiple Award Schedules as outlined in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 8.4. The module is not about general FAR procedure such as protests, acquisition planning, preparation of statements of work, and contract files management, but does discuss these topics as they relate to Schedules contracting and ordering procedures.

In this module, you will learn about the GSA Global Supply program and its role within the National Supply System. Information on GSA managed products, as well as key ordering and fulfillment information, will also be covered.

In this course, you will learn about how buyers in the federal marketplace can utilize small businesses when using the GSA Multiple Award Schedules (MAS) program. Every agency is concerned with meeting its annual socioeconomic goals and the MAS program is a simple and easy way to achieve those goals.

Target Audience:
This module is primarily intended for the Federal 1102 community in both civilian and military agencies, particularly contracting professionals at all levels who seek to gain understanding or strengthen their knowledge of Federal Supply Schedules and socioeconomic support.

This course will teach you about sustainability goals government-wide and ways the GSA Multiple Award Schedule can help achieve those goals.

Target Audience:
This course is designed for the Federal 1102 community working in both civilian and military agencies.

This continuous learning module addresses three commonly used acquisition methods: issuing task or delivery orders using GSA's Multiple Award Schedules (MAS) under FAR Subpart 8.4 and negotiating a stand-alone order or contract under FAR Part 13 and FAR Part 15. The module explores the differences and similarities of these three methods, their advantages and disadvantages in various situations, and how to analyze alternatives as you develop your acquisition strategy. This CLM also explains how to utilize FAR Part 13 in conjunction with FAR Part 8.4 when open market items are needed to complete your overall requirement.

Target Audience:
This module is primarily intended for the Federal 1102 community working in both civilian and military agencies.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Develop an understanding of small business programs and set-asides in socio-economic categories in order to encourage small business participation in Government acquisitions. Learn the considerations and methods for meeting agency small business goals.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals
Description: Explore the features, benefits and types of interagency acquisitions, and the requirements to make the decision to use this method. Learn the keys to success, and the resources available to support interagency acquisition activities.

This continuous learning module will discuss the GSA MAS Program as it pertains to the use of Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) and Contractor Team Arrangements (CTAs).

Target Audience:
This module is primarily intended for the Federal 1102 community working in both civilian and military agencies.

In this continuous learning module, we will examine additional options for minimizing the environmental impact of your acquisitions beyond requiring the use or supply of green products. It is possible to incorporate environmental considerations into any acquisition, regardless of size, scope, type, or complexity.

Target Audience:
This course is designed for the Federal contracting (1102) community working in both civilian and military agencies.

The GSA Schedules program offers a vast array of services and products as well as an easy, streamlined way to acquire these services. This course provides ordering activities with valuable information about the services available through GSA Schedules, how to find them, and the procedures and requirements that apply when ordering these services.

Target Audience:
This course is designed for ordering agencies that require GSA Schedule services and can benefit from the easy and cost-effective solutions the program offers.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Gain an understanding of the HUBZone program, the tools used to identify HUBZone firms, and the various contract considerations when making awards to HUBZone firms. Learn about price evaluation preference, limitations on subcontracting, and the non-manufacturer rule as it applies to the HUBZone program.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn about the Buy American statute's history and applicable statutes and regulations. Explore the exceptions and trade agreements that waive the Buy American statute requirements, and the guidelines for applying the Buy American statute to the solicitation and evaluation of supplies.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Gain knowledge of the Certificate of Competency (CoC) program which is administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA). Learn what CoC is and its purpose, as well as an understanding of the eligibility requirements, and the process involved in the applying the CoC program.

Target Audience: Entry Level acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Gain a general understanding of the acquisition process and the different roles that play a part in the process.

This course provides essential information about the EIS contracts, including the process for obtaining DPA that allows you to order from EIS. This course discusses the EIS program and features a set of multiple award, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contracts that provide a comprehensive and flexible way for all Federal agencies to access telecommunications and IT solutions from top global service providers.

Develop an understanding of the process for verifying an offeror or quoter's registration status in the Federal System for Award Management (SAM). Recognize the security measures put in place by SAM.gov to ensure that vendor data is valid and safeguarded.

At the end of this course, you will be able to:

- State the process for verifying an offeror or quoter's registration status in the Federal System for Award Management (SAM).
- Recognize the security measures put in place by SAM.gov to ensure that vendor data is valid and safeguarded.

Target Audience: Contracting Professionals

Develop an understanding of the most common contract types and their basic characteristics as well as factors to consider when selecting and negotiating the contract type.

At the end of this course, the student will be able to identify:

- The most common contract types and their basic characteristics
- Factors to consider when selecting and negotiating the contract type

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)

Gain an understanding of the concept of price analysis and the Government's requirement to ensure a fair and reasonable price. Regognize the preferred methods for conducting price analysis for the Federal Government, as well as the factors that affect comparability of price analysis

At the end of this course, the student will be able to identify:
- The price analysis techniques that the Government may use to ensure a fair and reasonable price
- Factors that affect comparability

Target Attendees: Contracting Professionals

Target Audience: All Federal acquisition workforce members, to include DOD and civilian agency employees.

The next generation GWAC vehicle, Alliant 2, offers comprehensive information technology (IT) solutions through customizable hardware, software, and services solutions purchased as a total package. The new course builds off of the success of Alliant and creates contract vehicles that provide a total solution to agencies' requirements while maximizing opportunities for small businesses. In this course, you will learn about the Alliant 2 offered through the GSA.

This course provides an overview of the acquisition team and the program lifecycle, explains the roles and responsibilities of the primary members of the acquisition team (Contracting Officer, Contracting Officer's Representative, and Program/Project Manager), and also discusses the impact of decisions made by the various acquisition team members and the use of effective communication in a collaborative environment.

In this sixty-minute course, the learner will take an active role in applying critical thinking skills necessary in developing the requirements for large projects. Requirements development will be addressed from multiple perspectives (e.g., achieving operational goals, writing requirements into contracts, the ability to monitor requirements after award, flexibility, and level of detail).

In this sixty-minute course, the learner will take an active role in applying the critical thinking skills necessary in identifying and pursuing the best solution when contracting for supplies and services for large projects. The course will also address the Federal Acquisition Regulation flexibilities along with OFPP released guidance and myth-busters on how to best engage with the private sector on how to deliver high quality solutions with sustained collaboration while promoting agency best practices.

In this sixty-minute course, the learner will take an active role in applying the critical thinking skills necessary when working towards achieving program/project goals by leveraging existing P/PM competencies. Topics may include proper program/project planning, contracting and acquisition management; requirements development and management, risk management, and other existing competencies.

Learn how to structure line items on contracts and orders, and when applicable exceptions apply. Correctly formulated line items result in improved access to reliable and comprehensive data on Federal procurement actions.

After completing this course, the student will be able to:
- Implement a consistent method for structuring line items
- Apply the new rule to line items in contracts and orders
- Determine when exceptions apply to the new rule

Target Audience: Contracting Professionals

Learn about past performance to include an understanding of how to prepare past performance evaluations, write evaluation narratives, rate contractor performance, and use contractor performance information during the award stage.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (COs, CORs, PMs)

In this course, you will learn about past performance evaluations and the government's requirement to ensure a contractor's performance rating is objective and fair. You will also learn the factors to consider when evaluating contractor performance. At the end of this course, you will be able to:

- Describe the requirements for reporting a contractor's performance.

- Describe the evaluation factors and elements of a quality narrative evaluation.

- Determine the appropriate contractor performance rating using the rating chart in FAR 42.1503 and justify ratings accordingly.

- Explain how contractor performance information is collected, used, and safeguarded during the contracting lifecycle.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Develop basic skills necessary to understand what market research is, why it's important and how to conduct it through hands on activities.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Develop basic skills necessary to understand the importance of debriefings, as well as the parameters surrounding what can be discussed at pre and post award debriefings.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn about the best value continuum and the differences between a low price technically acceptable (LPTA) evaluation and a trade off determination.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Explore the various types of contract remedies available to both parties under a contract.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn how to conduct a price reasonableness determination when awarding simplified acquisitions.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn what is involved in awarding task orders under a multiple-award IDIQ contract.

Government-wide Acquisition Contracts (GWACs) enable federal agencies to buy cost-effective, innovative solutions for information technology (IT) requirements. Because most, if not all, government agencies have a need to buy IT services and solutions, GSA has made this purchasing convenient through its GWAC Programs. In this continuous learning module, you will learn about the GWAC 8(a) STARS II offered through GSA.

This course focuses on remediating specific deficiencies cited in recent audit findings among DHS grant recipients across the country. The course will begin with an introduction to the course purpose and content overview, and then focus on remediating specific deficiencies found in the following 10 functional areas: Inventory Management; Equipment Usage; Payment; Expenditures; Reporting; Sub-recipient Monitoring; Internal Controls; Procurement; Period of Availability; and Closeout. This training is part of DHS's larger effort to strengthen its workforce with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to solve its current challenges in grants management. After completing this course, participants will be able to identify, prioritize, and monitor grant recipients' high-risk areas so that they can provide technical assistance before a significant deficiency impacts the grant program. If any hyperlinked documents within the course's Resources tab become inactive due to system changes, you can request the document by e-mailing TrainingandCertification@hq.dhs.gov.

OASIS and OASIS Small Business (SB) are multiple award, Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts that provide flexible and innovative solutions for complex professional services. Before issuing task orders using OASIS or OASIS SB, Federal Contracting Officers (COs) must complete training and receive a Delegation of Procurement Authority (DPA). Training will cover: basic contract information, scope, ordering process, roles & responsibilities, and resources. The course is designed for 1102-Series Contracting Officers, Contract Specialists (CSs), Contracting Officer Representatives (CORs), and Contract Review Officials.

Gain an understanding of Section 889 of Public Law 115-232 which prohibits the purchase and use of certain telecommunications and video surveillance services or equipment from specific companies based in the People's Republic of China. Effective implementation of Section 889 is part of the critical response of the United States to the national security threat posed by certain technology providers. Understand the new FAR requirements, the implementation guidance, exceptions and waiver processes, reporting requirements and enforcement of the rule.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Explore the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), gaining an understanding on how the FAR is administered and updated and how the FAR is structured and organized. Through hands on exercises, you will have the opportunity to practice researching and finding information in the FAR.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, FAI, in collaboration with OFPP and GSA, has developed a new course to support the acquisition community. This online training course provides summarized information and resources to support you as you meet your agencies' mission during this emergency situation. With the increasing amount of guidance and policy released in response to the current pandemic, it is important that you are aware of the flexibilities, guidance, and tools that are available to assist you. This course, along with a list of important resources and links, can be downloaded for you to review at your own pace. The content is current as of April 29, 2020.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn about industry's perspective on Federal procurements such as what influences industry's decision to bid on a given government requirement and/or get on government-wide acquisition contracts/schedules. This video is from the perspective of three distinguished industry professionals, representing a cross-section of industries both large and small.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn about the equal employment opportunity requirements established by the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs in the U.S. Department of Labor and how to ensure that these requirements are considered when initiating a procurement action. Learn about the impact of these changes on Federal government contracts and the equal opportunity clause, the pre-award clearance process, and the updates to the Federal Acquisition Regulation.

This course features examples of where agile acquisition has been successfully implemented in the Federal Government. The lessons learned, success stories, and the opportunity to question the trailblazers themselves should give everyone a great foundation to begin. There is a lot of talk about Agile - but what is it, and why are new procurement methods and strategies needed to successfully implement it? Agile Software Development is a mindset that requires a completely new way of thinking about an entire development process from the moment a need is identified through execution. In order to procure for these types of services, it is important to understand what Agile is and what it is not, what the risks are in the process and how they are mitigated, and what value success looks like. Traditional procurement methods for "waterfall" software implementations lack the flexibility to take advantage of the benefits of time, schedule, and cost that Agile Software Development methods can bring to the Federal Government. For this reason, the acquisition workforce needs to make its processes agile using innovative and creative solutions to procure these services while maintaining compliance with the FAR and Federal Law. This course identifies several methods and strategies that have been and can be applied to achieve this goal. There is a post-assessment that must be passed at 100% in order to obtain the CLPs. You will have an unlimited number of attempts to earn the passing score. This is a FAITAS LMS course.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn about the many benefits of contracting with the AbilityOne(R) Program and the various products and services they deliver to the federal government.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn how to conduct pre/post-award debriefings and what information may be disclosed.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Explore how to conduct effective Industry Day Conferences. Understand how to set-up and conduct a meaningful and well defined industry day conference that ensures that both the government and industry, engage in outcomes that are optimal.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn how the Multiple Award Schedules (MAS) Indefinite-Delivery, Indefinite-Quantity contract vehicles offer a wide array of efficiencies to both government agencies and vendors by simplifying and streamlining the contracting process.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn how to perform acquisition planning by considering all available sources and methods of procurement to satisfy mission needs while appropriately allocating risk.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Gain an understanding of why a Suspension and Debarment Official would deem a contractor eligible to do business with the Federal government. Learn from GSA and U.S. Air Force Suspension Debarment Officials as they discuss what they look for when determining contractor responsibility and what happens when a contractor meets with a Suspension and Debarment Official.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn how Category Management and the Acquisition Gateway can help meet the evolving needs of the acquisition community, while decreasing the prices paid for goods and services.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Gain insight into best practices, techniques, and "tips of the trade" for collecting, reporting, and evaluating past performance information.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Gain an understanding about the kind of information that the Government and industry can and should share during the acquisition process as well as the applicable timeframes for sharing that information.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn about the perspectives and practices in learning and development efforts and the need to engage people across these generations to ultimately ensure the creation of a qualified workforce.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Course Description: Gain knowledge about key initiatives and policy updates related to innovation, such as Acquisition Innovation Advocates, examples of implementing innovation (i.e. Office of Personnel Management), and information on the Department of Homeland Security's Procurement Innovation Lab (PIL).

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Develop an understanding of category management and the role it plays in the federal government. Learn about the Acquisition Gateway, Best in Class (BIC) designation, category management spend data, Prices Paid Portal and other tools and resources available on the Gateway.

This Procurement Innovation Lab (PIL) Primer provides an introduction to the Procurement Innovation Lab at the Department of Homeland Security, how it's working to change the procurement culture in the agency, and how its work can help change the procurement culture in your agency. The eight techniques shared are ways to improve the outcomes of your procurements, with the ultimate goal of helping to change the procurement culture in your agency. This is a condensed version of what is taught in the full-day PIL Boot Camp intensive workshop. It is recommended that you review the PIL Boot Camp workbook prior to watching the video.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)

After viewing, students will have an understanding of 8 PIL techniques:
-Oral Presentations
-Product Demonstrations
-Confidence Ratings
-Down-Selects
-Comparative Evaluations
-Selecting Best-Suited, Then Negotiating
-On-the-Spot Consensus Evaluations
-Streamlined Documentation

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn the proper procedures and best practices for conducting debriefings to unsuccessful offerors on the basis of the selection decision.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals
Description: Learn the requirements for documenting the contract file.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn how to select the most effective evaluation criteria for your requirement.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals
Description: Learn about source selection planning and the different basis for award used in the source selection process, and how evaluation factors are used in a source selection.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals
Description: Learn about the process, parameters, and responsibilities regarding the source selection decision process.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals
Description: Learn about the importance of the Independent Government Cost Estimate (IGCE) in the acquisition process.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals
Description: Learn about the purpose, procedures and responsibilities for post-award conferences.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals
Description: Learn about past performance, to include the collection and use of past performance information as an evaluation factor in source selection, as well as the characteristics of quality past performance information.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals
Description: Learn the purpose of cost realism and when it should be used.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals
Description: Learn about the different types of exchanges of information with industry and how those methods are appropriately used in the federal contracting.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals
Description: Learn about the requirements and responsibilities of the contracting officer when establishing the competitive range.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals
Description: Learn about the purpose and benefits of conducting good market research.

This FAITAS LMS course provides information on navigational and processing actions taken by a Bureau Certification Manager within an Agency. By the end of this course, the student will be educated on: An Overview of the Certification and Continuous Learning Processes within FAITAS, Reviewing and Processing FAITAS Certification Requests and Specializations/Agency Rqmts, An Overview of the WebFocus Reporting Feature within FAITAS and popular reports available to BCMs, Utilization of the UserLook up Feature within FAITAS

TARGET AUDIENCE: FAITAS users assigned the BCLM role.

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the Best-in-Class Program Management Office, and NASA Solutions for Enterprise-Wide Procurement (SEWP) are pleased to invite you to the 2nd Annual Best in Class (BIC) Fair at the General Service Administration's Atrium on Wednesday, March 18, 2020, from 8:30-12:00. Category Management policy, M-19-13, provides agencies with flexibility on deciding what Best-In-Class solutions it uses to meet the agency targets. Come and hear from OFPP Administrator Dr. Michael Wooten as he discusses "Frictionless Acquisitions". OMB and the BIC PMO will provide an overview of the Best-In-Class Program, criteria for BIC assessment, and current future of BIC. The BIC Fair will also give federal buyers and contractors a chance to speak directly, discuss market challenges and review potential solutions from the US Army, DLA, DHS, VA, NIH, NASA, and GSA. Bring your requirements, come ready to meet dozens of BIC Contract Solution exhibitors and see how these solutions can make your job easier during the busy fourth quarter buying season!

Open Opportunity: Pilot Testing a FAR-Based Contracting Quiz

Take this course and learn to
 Importance of the GAO Contracting Officers Representative
 Discuss GAO COR Roles & Responsibilities
 Provide CORs with resources and tools
 Key stakeholders will discuss the role of the COR within their programs

This is an online course which provides new contracting professionals and Contracting Officer Representatives with a broad understanding of the Federal civilian contracting environment in which they serve. Topics included in this course are: Federal Contracting Overview, Skills for Success, Acquisition Planning, Contact Formation, and Contract Administration. FCN 101 is an alternative course to CON 100.

This entry level class introduces and explains how Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) may be leveraged to streamline the acquisition process. Eleven (11) Federal agencies presently have statutory authority to conduct acquisitions using OTAs. In this course, you will learn about: the history and resurgence of OTs; the legal factors impacting their use; when they are best used; and how to structure them. You will leave the class thinking outside of the FAR.

This interactive course is designed for organizations and individuals who seek a better understanding of what RPA is and how it is being deployed in the federal workplace. Using real world examples participants will learn the process used to identify tasks for automation and the means by which government agencies implement RPA. Through videos, small group break-out sessions, and a capstone exercise, participants will become familiar with the possibilities RPA offers and how they can contribute to their agency's efforts.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals seeking FAC-C Level I
Description: Learn the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and how to locate and understand regulations, provisions, and clauses. Through hands on activities, navigate the FAR in order to gain a working understanding of how to search, locate, and research information in the FAR.

FCN 190 is being phased out by courseware vendors during the period 10/1/19 through 6/30/2020 - completion certificates from this course will be acceptable for FAC-C Level I until 9/30/2021.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals who may assist federal agencies during the recovery phase of national emergencies and disasters
Description: Acquisitions are the last thing on someone's mind when disaster strikes. But acquiring goods and services enables responders to provide life-saving support to the American people. Acquisition personnel on the front lines provide emergency medical care, temporary shelter, and other critical services. Even in the midst of disaster, you must comply with both standard acquisition regulations and specialized rules for emergencies. You will gain an overview of disaster contracting, and leave class knowing how to respond quickly and appropriately to disasters.

This 2-day course provides information about successful contract disposal-from developing a contract file through closing out a contract. This course includes guidance and supplemental information relating to coverage found in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 4.8, Closeout of contract files. The FAR provides guidance on time for closeout, procedures for closeout, contractor release of claims, and storage, handling, and disposition of contract files. | LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Describe the organization structure and basic closeout responsibilities of individuals involved in contract award and administration; Discuss the significance of contract type and complexity and the effect on closeout responsibilities; Determine release of claims considerations; Execute steps required to closeout various types of contracts; Identify specific items of special concerns which complicate contract closeout

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.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Understand the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), the document that governs the Federal acquisition process, and its critical importance to the success of Federal contracting personnel. You will learn to navigate the FAR, gain familiarity with the structure and content, and understand the FAR system and its underlying basis.

The Acquisition work force must be aware of project management mandates set by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) for implementing Agile information technology (IT) projects. You must employ Agile-based project management approaches to accomplish the adaptive acquisition framework. You will learn how to use flexible acquisition techniques that align with less rigid procurement policies and procedures.

Learning Objectives
- Describe Agile concepts and methodologies in the Federal acquisition environment
- Determine the acquisition and pricing strategies and techniques appropriate for Agile projects and programs
- Apply quality-focused acquisition methodologies in Agile projects and programs
- Determine the most effective methods to use when simplifying deliverables, choosing an acquisition vehicle, or meeting reporting and compliance requirements

This course provides contracting professionals with the basic knowledge required to perform the tasks required of a FAC-COR Level 1. The Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) Level 1 course covers the general roles and responsibilities of the COR across the four phases of the contracting lifecycle, including pre-award, post-award, contract management, and contract closeout.

Target Audience: Federal Acquisition Workforce This course provides contracting professionals with the basic knowledge required to perform the tasks required of a FAC-COR Level 1. The Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) Level 1 course covers the general roles and responsibilities of the COR across the four phases of the contracting lifecycle, including pre-award, post-award, contract management, and contract closeout.

Target Audience: Federal Acquisition Workforce

Target Audience: Contracting Officer's Representatives (CORs) seeking FAC-COR Level II
Description: Gain the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of a Contracting Officer's Representative (COR). Gain an understanding of standards of conduct and ethics, development of requirements documents, contract documentation, inspection procedures, changes, terminations, and disputes.

Target Audience: Contracting Officer's Representatives (CORs)
Description: Enhance your Contracting Officer Representative skills in contract preparation, formation, and administration through discussion and participation in exercises. Participate in group role-playing exercises and present findings and solutions.

Target Audience: Contracting Officer's Representatives (CORs)
Description: Gain a deeper understanding of the Federal Acquisition process including: Solicitation Requirements , Market Research, Best Value and Proposal Evaluation, The Technical Evaluation Panel, Contract Administration , Post-award Process, Inspection and Monitoring, Invoicing and Payment, Change Orders, Performance Evaluation, Contract Closeout.

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.

Successful completion of this web-based course, along with the follow-on Project Management and the Project Lifecycle web-based course, and accompanying resident or classroom course, will satisfy Federal entry-level FAC-P/PM certification training requirements. This course introduces contracting professionals to the key knowledge and skills required to successfully plan, establish, and manage Government programs and projects, including systems engineering and software management. This course also covers the six phases of the project lifecycle, which is the process typically used to develop a Government project from start to finish. The six phases include Concept Definition, Concept Planning, Development, Implementation, Operations and Maintenance, and Closeout.

Successful completion of this web-based course, along with the prerequisite Project Management Basics web-based course, and accompanying resident or classroom course, will satisfy Federal entry-level FAC-P/PM certification training requirements. After completing this course, you will be able to identify project management roles, responsibilities, decision points, and key deliverables required for effective systems acquisition management throughout all phases of a project's lifecycle. You will also learn about the project lifecycle, which consists of six phases: Concept Definition, Concept Planning, Development, Implementation, Operations and Maintenance, and Closeout.

Target Audience: Designed for new Program and Project Management professionals seeking their FAC-P/PM entry level certification
Description: Gain the basic knowledge and skills needed by an entry level project manager to successfully manage a small project or be an effective member of an integrated project team (IPT). Upon successful completion of this course, you will clearly understand how to fulfill entry level program/project management obligations.

As required by both statutory and regulatory actions, Integrated Project Teams (IPT) have become a standard requirement for many federal government project and program environments. However, some audits have shown that many IPTs are in name only - without impacting program/project success. In this course, participants will learn and apply the most effective practices in designing, chartering, establishing, and utilizing an IPT to increase the program/project's production of acceptable deliverables for stakeholders and end-users. The concept of deploying IPTs covers both IT and non-IT programs/projects and can, if properly implemented, provide significant benefits to federal agencies and departments.

Scrum is the fastest growing Agile project management methodology. Managing a Scrum Team is the responsibility of the Product Owner, who is challenged with evaluating and controlling delivery, communicating across teams, and making final decisions to approve requirements. In this course, you will explore the responsibilities and expectations of the Product Owner role and learn how a Product Owner can infuse federal priorities, goals, and vision into a development team. You will gain the skills needed to manage the product backlog and move the project forward with each iteration.

An Agile/Scrum framework is only as effective as the Scrum Master who facilitates it. With Scrum's increasing popularity in Federal project management, Scrum Masters with the ability to effectively implement adaptive approaches to product design, development, and deployment are required. You will learn the roles and responsibilities of a Federal Scrum Master during a project's lifecycle. Upon completion of this course, you will be able to effectively implement Scrum processes and practices in the Federal environment and support other Agile/Scrum members on the road to project success.

Target Audience: Intended for Program and Project Management professionals seeking their FAC-P/PM Mid-level certification
Description: Construct an overall acquisition strategy approach in a simulated integrated teaming environment. Emphasis is placed on crafting an integrated approach to systems management, including developing requirements, technology, and risk management; test and evaluation; and integrated logistics support.

Target Audience: Intended for Program and Project Management professionals seeking their FAC-P/PM Mid-level certification.
Description: Practice acquisition planning in an integrated team setting through a series of lecture, discussion, case studies, and practical exercises. Learn how to assemble a acquisition plan; account for contract risks; conduct market research; build effective contract incentives; navigate the challenges inherent with non-developmental and commercial item acquisitions; and craft performance work statements, statements of objectives, and statements of work.

Target Audience: Intended for Program and Project Management professionals seeking their FAC-P/PM Mid-level certification
Description: Develop application and analysis skills in estimating cost and using cost-related information to formulate and manage project financials and assemble a viable business case. Work through the steps of project budget formulation, execution, and financial reporting in compliance with OMB guidance and procedure. Earned value management skills are practiced and applied as a tool for tracking contractor performance, managing risk, and adjusting project strategy.

Target Audience: Intended for Program and Project Management professionals seeking their FAC-P/PM Mid-level certification.
Description: Develop application skills in forming and leading integrated teaming arrangements. Learn how to use communication strategies to build alliances, focus decision making, and resolve interpersonal and organizational conflict. Develop critical thinking skills to process and synthesize information to arrive at new levels of insight regarding project risks, stakeholder engagement, and the political backdrop that affects projects and programs. Gain mentoring skills to lead a team to arrive at solutions to issues posing risk to project performance, and to take responsibility and accountability for their performance.

Target Audience: Intended for Program and Project Management professionals seeking their FAC-P/PM Senior level certification.
Description: Transition the technical knowledge and abilities required in project management to those needed to orchestrate more complex projects collectively as programs. Students engage and solve problematic issues in synthesizing requirements into viable acquisition strategies and evaluating those strategies as programs evolve. Technology management processes are explored and evaluated with the goal of implementing a balanced system design, as well as tracking asset developer technical progress and reporting. Test and evaluation concepts are evaluated as a primary means to manage technical risk. Viable approaches to product support and supply chain management are addressed as a roadmap to increased system readiness, affordability, and reduced logistics footprint.

Target Audience: Intended for Program and Project Management professionals seeking their FAC-P/PM Senior Level certification
Description: Provides an overview of managing Federal contracts with a focus on the acquisition plan, the pre-award and source selection process, leading and appraising contract execution and formulating contract approaches for services and IT efforts and satisfies the contracting performance outcomes necessary for the Federal Acquisition Certification for Program and Project Managers (FAC-P/PM) at the senior level.

Target Audience: Intended for Program and Project Management professionals seeking their FAC-P/PM Senior-Level certification
Description: Provides an overview for effective cost estimating, federal budgeting, and implementing EVM on projects and satisfies the business, cost, and financial management performance outcomes necessary for the Federal Acquisition Certification for Program and Project Managers (FAC-P/PM) at the senior level. The course prepares students to supervise, or improves proficiency in supervising, the functions required through the use of interactive exercises and class discussions which allows students to focus on collecting, organizing, analyzing, and reporting on project and program progress and performance.

Target Audience: Intended for Program and Project Management professionals seeking their FAC-P/PM Senior Level certification
Description: Provides a framework for the participants to respond to the leadership challenges facing them and their organizations in new, more innovative, and more productive ways and satisfies the leadership performance outcomes necessary for the Federal Acquisition Certification for Program and Project Managers (FAC-P/PM) at the senior level. Experienced decision makers explore different factors, connections, and interactions that shape situations and use that understanding to anticipate potential impacts of management system weaknesses.

The tenets of Agile have been steadily transforming Federal project management (PM). As a project manager, you must stay current with best practices-which includes Agile. You will learn Agile PM methodologies that apply to the Federal environment, including acquisitions and non-IT projects. You will focus on value, not cost, with the overarching idea that project managers are team leaders who work with the customer rather than against them.

Examine the differences between Agile project management and typical project management
Describe the philosophy and framework of Agile development
Examine the principles and practices using Scrum as a primary Agile project management process
Review the unique characteristics of implementing Agile within the Federal environment
Discover what is needed to initiate an Agile project
Demonstrate what is involved in planning an Agile project
Examine what is involved when executing an Agile project
Practice approaches for monitoring and controlling an Agile project
Explain the steps involved in closing out an Agile project
Discuss how to implement Agile project management in the Federal environment

Target Audience: Designed for IT Project Managers who have completed their FAC-P/PM certification at the Mid or Senior level and are seeking to obtain the FAC-P/PM IT Core- Plus Specialization
Description: Learn to manage IT projects and programs using processes based on modular procurement. You will learn to craft a contract strategy that accommodates rapid changes in technology, multiple contractors, interoperability and integration risk. Learn how to comply with IT-related federal laws, and regulations.

Target Audience: Designed for IT Project Managers who have completed their FAC-P/PM certification at the Mid or Senior level and are seeking to obtain the FAC-P/PM IT Core- Plus Specialization
Description: Apply the principles of IT project and program management and how to manage the acquisition, retention, use, and disposition of information and the enabling technologies. The IT Management, Security, and Performance Assurance course is part of the FAC P/PM IT Core Plus Specialization Certification track and satisfies technical performance outcomes that are part of the 16 designated performance outcomes for IT Core Plus.
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Target Audience: Designed for IT Project Managers who have completed their FAC-P/PM certification at the Mid or Senior level and are seeking to obtain the FAC-P/PM IT Core- Plus Specialization
Description: Apply the principles of IT project and program management and how to manage the acquisition, retention, use and disposition of information and the enabling technologies. The IT Infrastructure and Architectural Design course is part of the FAC-P/PM IT Core-Plus Specialization Certification track and satisfies technical performance outcomes that are part of the 16 designated performance outcomes for IT Core-Plus Certification.

Agile continues to permeate the Federal landscape. As a member of the Federal acquisition workforce, you are tasked with applying an Agile acquisition framework within the confines of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). You will gain an understanding of an Agile acquisition approach and the challenges of applying this framework in the Federal environment through role-playing activities and Federal case studies. You will participate in hands-on exercises that reinforce your learning after examining real contracts where Agile has been used successfully.

Today's fast-paced contracting environment requires contracting officers to have the ability to leverage the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to provide innovative solutions to acquisition requirements. This course will enable participants to understand the use of long-recognized, but underutilized strategies described in the FAR, as well new strategies currently being used by federal agencies. Participants will leave this course with the confidence and competence to successfully use the flexibility afforded in FAR 1.02-4 to apply good judgment to make the best business decisions to support customers.

Simply put, cloud computing is the access of information through the internet from a third-party provider. However, as Federal agencies move to the cloud, acquisition professionals are faced with complex challenges regarding interoperability, data security, reliability, and performance management. You will learn the unique terminology and issues at each stage of the cloud acquisition life cycle. By demystifying this concept, you'll be prepared to participate in a cloud acquisition with confidence.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals
Description: Gain an understanding of the requirements for Performance Based Acquisition, including the applicable clauses, the award process, work statement requirements, and labor laws. Based on Part 37 of the FAR, the course considers the use of simplified acquisition methods, sealed bidding, and negotiation as appropriate methods for acquiring services.

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 QASP with a focus on robust case studies, examples, and exhibits.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals
Description: Learn about the simplified acquisition procedures and it's advantages (reduce administrative costs, promote contracting efficiency, and avoid unnecessary burdens for agencies and contractors). Understand the applicable 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 GSA Federal Supply Schedule, ethical considerations, and other intricacies of simplified acquisition procedures.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn how to write performance based work states that 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. 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 Federal Government spends over $80 billion on information technology (IT) annually-in support of national health, security, the economy, and more. Given this significant investment and the criticality of IT systems, Federal agencies must carry out acquisitions in an effective and responsible way. This course covers planning, procuring, and managing IT acquisitions and also addresses special considerations, such as accessibility and security. You will return to work ready to support future IT challenges at your agency.

Target Audience: Acquisition professionals (CO, CORs, PMs)
Description: Learn how to carry out acquisitions of information technology (IT) in an effective and responsible way. The Federal Government spends billions of dollars on information technology (IT) each fiscal year-in support of national health, security, the economy, and more. Given this significant investment and the criticality of these IT systems, focus will be placed on the proper planning, procuring, and managing IT acquisitions and also address special consideration like accessibility and security.

Target Audience: Contracting professionals
Description: Understand the simplified acquisitions process and guidelines that govern acquisitions under the Simplified Acquisition Threshold. Not only will you use practical exercises based on actual legal decisions to apply the basics of simplified acquisitions, but you will also be exposed to the ever-changing electronic commerce methods of acquiring supplies and services using required sources.

This online course provides foundation knowledge on widely used systems engineering practices and their application to DHS acquisitions and the Systems Engineering Life Cycle (SELC). Participants will gain an understanding of the critical role of systems engineering in DHS acquisitions, as well as the application of technical and technical management processes throughout the system life cycle

Key Topics: Technical processes and Technical Management processes, Stakeholder Requirements. Functional Analysis. Design Synthesis, Implementation, Verification and Validation, Transition, Technical Planning, Risk Management, Requirements Management, Decision Analysis and SELC overview