CON 100: Shaping Smart Business Arrangements

Course Description:

Personnel new to the Contracting career field will gain a comprehensive understanding of the environment in which they will serve. Students will develop professional skills for making business decisions and for advising other acquisition team members in successfully meeting customers' needs. Before beginning their study of technical knowledge and contracting procedures, students will learn about different mission areas and the procurement alternatives for each. Knowledge management and information systems will be introduced as well. Small group exercises will prepare the students to provide contracting support within the overarching business relationships of government and industry.

Prerequisites:

None. This course is designed for personnel new to the contracting workforce or noncontracting personnel who play a role in the acquisition process.

Learning Objectives:

• describe the acquisition/contracting mission and its impact on the American economic system;
• select training and development opportunities for career progression;
• describe the interdependence of functional team members;
• describe the importance of the oversight roles of the Government Accountability Office and the Inspector General;
• explain the characteristics and responsibilities of the contracting professional in the role of a business advisor;
• explain the distinctive interests of both the buyer and seller and the role those interests play;
• determine the relationship between financial and acquisition communities and how fundamental financial principles and requirements are important;
• describe commercial acquisition and government-unique requirements of market research in identifying the best arrangements to meet mission requirements; and
• explain e-business and information technology in supporting business processes.