top of page
Search

Selecting Contract Methods and Types for Performance webinar hosted by NCMA

Writer's picture: Cortney StrubleCortney Struble


Webinar Overview


National Contracts Management Association (NCMA) recently hosted an informative webinar titled “Selecting Contract Methods and Types for Performance”. The presenters were Melanie Burgess, president of Burgess Consulting, LLC; Crystal Glenn, president of Glenn Consulting, LLC; and Wesley Dewalt, Director, AAS Defense, Global Sector, Indo-Pacific Division, General Services Administration, Assisted Acquisition Service. Together, this brilliant team helped participants understand how to understand and manage risk with the basic contract types for federal government contracting and think strategically about the types of contracts selected.


Market Research


The presentation began with discussing the importance of the market research process that occurs during the pre-award life cycle phase. The participants were encouraged to understand that the market research process is vital and that it can start as early as twenty-four months before a solicitation is developed and released. The key is for buyers and sellers to engage early and often. Specifically, sellers should use this time as their chance to influence the government while buyers should act as business advisors to their customers. It is emphasized that during the market research process, government agencies are more receptive to new and innovative ideas since an acquisition strategy has not been settled upon yet. Frequent and healthy interactions between the buyers and sellers during this crucial time serve as feedback to help with the acquisition strategy on matters such as contract type selection.


Contract Types and Management


During the contract type overview, Firm Fixed Price (FFP), Cost Plus, and Time and Materials (T&M) contracts were all reviewed at length, including their management, risks, considerations and challenges. It was noted that different types of contracts can be used within a single contract, allowing for more freedom in developing delivery or task orders.


Subcontract Management


For subcontract management, it was highlighted that subcontracts do not necessarily need to be the same as the prime contract type and flowdowns may be different depending on the type of work. When this is the case, it should be considered that more careful review of the subcontract will be necessary.


Key Takeaways


  • Quality research upfront is vital when selecting the best contract type.

  • Consider risks for different types of contracts for both buyers and sellers.

  • Always be open to exploring all types of contracts as options.

21 views0 comments

Comments


©2024 by Glenn Consulting Services, LLC. 

bottom of page