*This course is available in eTraining format. If you choose to take up this course in eTraining format, there is a 42-days window to complete the course. 

Project Managers, contract managers and other professionals involved in the world of contracts must be able to work effectively together and with customers, contractors and subcontractors to accomplish key organizational objectives. Because contracts are developed in anincreasingly complex environment, including the rising use of contracted supplies and services throughout government and industry, a solid understanding of the contracting process is critical and can give you an advantage whether you are on the buyer's or seller's side.

Get an overview of all phases of contracting, from requirements development to closeout. See how incentive can be used to improve contract results.

This course explores these vital issues from the manager's perspective, highlighting key roles and responsibilities to give you greater influence over how work is performed. You'll also discuss actions that can be taken to help ensure that contractors or subcontractors perform as required under the contract.

Lectures are combined with case studies, exercise and negotiation role-playing to maximize the learning experience. Plus, you'll receive a comprehensive course materials package, including reference materials specific to each unit of the course.

Effective contract negotiation and administration can ensure project success, speed performance, and reduce risks and costs along the way. Discover the keys to contracting from your perspective in this practical course.

Learn how to:     

- Identify contract components and understand the process from start to finish     

- Select the right contract type for your project     

- Decipher contract legalese     

- Choose the offer that will result inthe best value for the buyer     

- Agree on objectives, requirements, plans and specifications     

- Negotiate favorable terms and make revisions to the contract     

- Apply the "10 rules of contract interpretation" in project disputes     

- Administer contracts appropriately, and know when and how to terminate before or upon completion

PMBOK® Guide knowledge areas:

• Project Quality Management
• Project Risk Management
• Project Procurement Management

Professional Development Units (PDUs): 22.5

1. Understanding the Contract Management Process     

   a. Contract management definition     

   b. Description and uses of contracts     

   c. Buyer and seller perspectives     

   d. Contract management and the PMBOK® Guide

2. Teamwork - Roles and Responsibilities

   a. Concept of agency     

   b. Types of authority     

   c. Privity of contract     

   d. Contractor personnel

3. Concepts and Principles of Contract Law

   a. Mandatory elements of a legally enforceable contract     

   b. Terms and conditions     

   c. Remedies     

   d. Interpreting contract provisions

4. Contracting Methods     

   a. Contracting methods - competitive and noncompetitive     

   b. Purchase cards, imprest funds or petty cash     

   c. Sealed bidding, two-step sealed bidding, competitive negotiation andcompetitive proposals     

   d. Reverse auctions     

   e. Purchase agreements vs. contracts     

   f. Single-source negotiation vs.sole-source negotiation

5. Developing Contract Pricing Agreements     

   a. Uncertainty and risk in contract pricing     

   b. Categories and types of contracts

       - Incentive         

       - Fixed-price

       - Time and materials

       - Cost-reimbursement     

   c. Selecting contract types

6. Preaward Phase     

   a. Buyer activities         

       - Plan purchases and acquisitions

       - Plan contracting         

       - Request seller response     

   b. Seller activities         

       - Presales         

       - Bid/no-bid decision         

       - Bid or proposal preparation     

   c. Understanding the PMBOK® Guide

7. Award Phase     

   a. Source selection process     

   b. Selection criteria: management, technical and price criteria     

   c. Evaluation standards     

   d. Evaluation procedures     

   e. Negotiation objectives     

   f. Negotiating a contract         

      - Tactics and countertactics (buyers vs. sellers)         

      - Document agreement or walk away

8. Contract Administration     

   a. Key contract administration policies

   b. Continued communication     

   c. Tasks for buyers and sellers     

   d. Contract analysis     

   e. Performance and progress     

   f. Records, files and documentation     

   g. Managing change     

   h. Resolving claims and disputes     

   i. Termination