Certain fields require highly specialized training. One of these is Government contracts - the practices in which are far different from those applied in standard commercial settings. Recognizing this, a unique program was developed. The Concentrated Course In Government Contracts, it was first presented in 1965.
The Concentrated Course has continued to serve the contracting community—thousands of its members have attended its sessions. So it is with pride that we are pleased to again present this unusual educational offering.
A review of the course features and content will give you some indication of the intensity and quality of the sessions. Note that the course blankets the spectrum of practical topics; that it is intended for all those seriously concerned with Government contracting (administrative, executive and legal personnel); and that its "alpha to omega" approach is designed to benefit both the relative beginner and the seasoned professional.
As is customary with Government contract programs presented by Federal Publications, the course requires singular concentration by the attendees. Indeed to be frank, you should consider attending only if you are prepared to accept a demanding learning schedule. If you decide to join us, we are confident that the experience will be professionally beneficial.
Course Curriculum
MONDAY
MORNING: CONTRACTING TECHNIQUES
Authority, acquisition planning, contract types, competition, sealed bidding. Practical Exercise.
AFTERNOON: SOURCE SELECTION ISSUES
Competitive procurements under FAR Part 15, procedures, issues and problems. Practical Exercise.
TUESDAY
MORNING: SPECIAL ACQUISITION TOPICS
Simplified acquisition, commercial items and socio-economic policies. Practical Exercise.
AFTERNOON: BID PROTESTS
Contractor protests at the Government Accountability Office (GAO). GAO Protest Hearing Simulation.
WEDNESDAY
MORNING: CHANGES AND CHANGE RELATED ISSUES
Rights and obligations arising from changes in contract work; the changes clause; “constructive changes”; contract interpretation; delays; “cardinal” changes; differing site conditions. Practical Exercise.
AFTERNOON: INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE
Analysis and interpretation of inspection and acceptance clauses; testing; acceptance and rejection; ways to overcome acceptance; increases in extent of inspection/testing and in standards of performance. Practical Exercise.
THURSDAY
MORNING: EQUITABLE ADJUSTMENTS AND COST RECOVERY
Methods of determining equitable adjustments; allowable and unallowable cost elements; overhead; profit; problems and techniques of proof; cost recovery under cost reimbursement contracts. Practical Exercise.
AFTERNOON: CLAIMS AND DISPUTES
Preparation of claims; certification and recovery of interest; contracting officer’s “final decisions”; appeals to agency Boards of Contract Appeals (BCA) and the Court of Federal Claims (COFC). Practical Exercise.