Description:

This session explores the front end of the acquisition lifecycle where strategy is formed and the trajectory of every procurement is set.

Participants will examine how the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) reshapes acquisition planning by emphasizing usability, proportionality, and early decision-making. The session reinforces the shift away from process-heavy compliance toward a streamlined, judgment-driven approach where planning activities directly influence speed, competition, and access to innovation.

The session begins with market research (FAR Part 10), highlighting its role as a required, but scalable activity that informs acquisition strategy before requirements are finalized. Participants will learn how effective market research drives agencies toward commercial solutions and existing contract vehicles, reinforcing the system’s “leftward pull” toward faster, lower-risk acquisition pathways.

Building on this foundation, the session examines acquisition planning (FAR Part 7) as a decision-making discipline rather than a documentation exercise. Topics include proportional planning, the role of small business considerations, and flexible approaches such as oral planning and rapid coordination techniques.

The session then explores requirement definition (FAR Part 11), emphasizing performance-based approaches and early collaboration with industry to improve outcomes and competition. Participants will also review publicizing requirements (FAR Part 5) and competition requirements (FAR Part 6), focusing on modernization through plain language, improved usability, and expanded access to the marketplace.

Finally, the session introduces contract type selection (FAR Part 16) as a critical strategic decision point, highlighting increased flexibility and emerging approaches such as outcome-based contracting and innovative pricing structures.

Who Should Attend This Session:

Federal contracting officers, contract specialists, policy analysts, and acquisition professionals seeking to understand the foundational concepts, structure, and cultural implications of the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul.

Prerequisites:

Working knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and general federal procurement procedures.

What You'll Learn:

• Explain the role of the RFO in shaping acquisition strategy and outcomes
  
• Describe how market research drives commercial-first decisions and acquisition pathways
  
• Apply proportionality principles to market research and acquisition planning
  
• Identify when market research is required and how it should be documented
  
• Distinguish between planning as a process versus a documentation requirement
  
• Recognize effective techniques for defining requirements and engaging industry
  
• Understand publicizing and competition requirements under modernized FAR guidance
  
• Evaluate contract type selection as a tool for risk allocation and performance outcomes
  
• Identify tools and resources, including Smart Accelerators, that support acquisition planning.

Credits: 1.5 CPE/CLP credits for participation

Cost: $55 Members/$69 Non-members

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