Full Course Catalog
The Federal Contracting Institute® can customize any of these courses to your specifications for delivery on your site. Contact us for further details.
- General Acquisition and Contracting
- Government Contracting Curriculum (FAC-C, FAC-COR/COTR, FAC-P/PM)
- Certified Schedules Contracts Manager (CSCM)
- Program and Project Management
- Leadership, Human Capital, Change Management, and NSPS
- Alternative Dispute Resolution
- Audio Seminar Series
- Online Courses
- Internet Law Courses
General Acquisition and Contracting
| Course # | Name and Description |
|---|---|
| FC06 | Advanced GWAC and Schedule Issues This advanced part workshop, part lecture course will teach you everything you need to know about GWACs, MACs, and GSA Schedule contracts. You will learn how to place and respond to orders, draft and respond to performance-based statements of work, and handle unique issues as they arise. The second day of this course is a full workshop which will provide an opportunity to apply these topics to real world contracting experiences. |
| FC44 | Advanced FAR Workshop The Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and its supplements are the source documents used when contracting with both federal defense and civilian agencies. A close and detailed working knowledge of the FAR is mandatory for the government, contractor, and subcontractor personnel. FAR Less Complicated provides the introduction and overview materials on the Federal Acquisition Regulations. FAR: Intermediate is a follow up mid level course that identifies specific section of the FAR for analysis and discussion on implementation. FAR Advanced is a combination training and consultation session. It is designed for individuals with extensive experience in the implementation of the FAR. This session will be specifically designed each time for the attendees. Prior to conducting each attendee will be required to provide a set of concerns and questions regarding implementing specific sections of the FAR. Given that material Centre will design a class to address those requests. |
| FC09 | Annual Review —Hot Issues in Federal Contracting One of our most popular courses, Annual Review provides everything you need to stay current in the ever-changing field of government contracts. Use this as a refresher on the developments in contracting over the past year and as an opportunity to network with others. Hear Centre Principals Jim and Barbara's predictions for 2009. Gain a solid understanding of recent events and changes in the contracting world—a great way to start the New Year! |
| FC07 | Best Value Source Selection What does best value really mean? What makes a winner in best-value source selection? This course teaches you the critical steps of this source selection process. Learn how federal agencies buy goods and services. Understand the regulatory underpinnings of the competitive process. You will gain a complete understanding of the entire best-value source selection process from acquisition strategy, through best-value tradeoffs, to debriefings and protests. |
| FC01 | Boot Camp™ for GSA Contracting GSA Schedule contracting is one of the federal government's preferred procurement methods. However, recent well-publicized abuses of GSA schedules have shined the spotlight on the need for greater oversight, and the government is responding. Do you have the skills necessary to navigate the growing regulations while profiting from these vehicles? This intensive three-day course will provide the skills you need to understand and negotiate your own GSA and VA Schedules and modifications. Learn how best-value is determined under task orders and why the basis-of-award concept is critical. Gain a thorough understanding of the cutting-edge issues in the dynamic Schedules market. You will also learn about the current developments and hot topics in GSA Federal Supply Schedule, MAC and IDIQ contracting. |
| FC03 | Compliance for Federal Contractors This course includes updated material on the latest Congressional compliance initiatives. The courseware will be an excellent reference tool for years to come. Course topics cover compliance with all Procurement Integrity Act issues, as well as general ethics issues that arise under federal contracts. Attendees will learn to identify and mitigate audit risk areas and organizational conflicts of interests, and learn the basics of developing an effective compliance program. |
| FC36 | Compliance with Federal Labor Laws Labor laws are major players in all services contracts. Compliance issues take a new turn because many contractors do not have legal expertise in labor law. They will leave this class knowing the basic compliance requirements for the major pieces of Federal labor legislation, how to work with the Department of Labor, how labor laws influence proposal writing and pricing, and how to set up files so that compliance to labor law is not an issue for investigation, audit, or the punishment that follows non-compliance. |
| FC37 | Compliance with Procurement Laws A good working knowledge of procurement laws and regulations can help companies accurately price and effectively perform federal contracts. Failure to comply can result in a loss of contracts, fines, penalties, even debarment. Now is the time to put a solid plan in place to protect your performance record. This two-day course will give in-house counsel, contract administrators and compliance professionals a comprehensive overview of basic federal contract compliance requirements: The Federal Acquisition Regulations, Executive Orders and GAO Circulars, agency supplements and more. |
| FC23 | Cost and Price Realism Analysis Learn how to do price analysis, cost analysis and cost and price realism analysis. Understand and be able to distinguish between price analysis and cost analysis approaches to analyzing cost proposals. Learn the basics of indirect rates, and how to analyze individual contract costs. This intensive two day course will teach you what you need to know to avoid cost and price realism protests. We explain through classroom and workshops how to conduct analysis and the pitfalls to avoid in doing cost and price realism. |
| FC25 | Essentials of Federal Contracting for Small Businesses Designed for the small business owner, Essentials of Federal Contracting for Small Businesses is a primer covering all topics vital for participating in the federal government contract arena. Use this class as a springboard for either getting your foot in the door as a government contractor, or for making the most of your small business status. Our experts, who possess decades of practical experience, are at your disposal to assist in navigating this lucrative but challenging field! |
| FC13 | Export Control Basics All companies engaged in international activities, whether through the export of products or technology, the hiring of foreign national employees, international affiliations, or the exchange of technical information with overseas counterparts and clients, must understand the requirements of U.S. export control laws and regulations. In recent years, Congress and the executive branch have increasingly focused on compliance issues relating to these activities. Reflecting this concern, legislation continues to expand and reinforce compliance demands on exporters, and penalties for violations have become increasingly severe and more commonplace. This course provides you with a strong foundation for understanding U.S. export control laws and regulations and strategies you need to successfully implement and monitor such a program. |
| FC14 | FAR "Less Complicated" The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and its supplements are the source documents when contracting with both federal defense and civilian agencies. A close and detailed working knowledge of the FAR is mandatory for government, contractor, and subcontractor personnel. This course offers critical information that will help both contracting and technical personnel understand how to negotiate superior contracts and maintain compliance. The instructor will demonstrate how to access, search and update the FAR. |
| FC02 | Federal Contracting Basics Gain an in-depth understanding of the basic framework and core principles governing federal procurements, from the issuance of the solicitation to contract closeout. This course is specifically tailored for procurement professionals who desire both a strong overview of federal contracts, including GSA Schedules, and a current and in-depth understanding of the legal, policy, and performance issues associated with government contracts. You will also gain the important ability to recognize and respond to the full range of issues that typically arise in federal contracting. |
| FC04 | Federal Contract Management This course provides project managers useful tools and techniques to ensure performance-based contracts are well written and managed through monitoring, tracking, and reporting. The fundamentals of project management are provided as a baseline for federal contract management. Federal contract managers will be able to solve complex contracting issues dealing with types and forms of contracts, comparisons between contract vehicles, contract administration, contract modifications, compliance, subcontracting, price estimating and adjustments, financing and payment, procurement integrity, reporting to management, and managing difficult situations. Enhance your skills with our hands-on workshop. |
| FC10 | Federal Sales: "Capturing & Winning Business" Learn how to break into federal government contracting and turn leads into sales. If your GSA schedule is in place, are you maximizing its potential? Understand how to take full advantage of a GSA Schedule. Maximize your contracting potential with a marketing plan designed to get results fast. Start contributing to increasing your company's sales now. Lead instructor, Kevin Riley, has successfully won over $500 million in federal contracts. |
| FC17 | Fundamentals of Interagency Contracting Interagency contracting can create savings in time and money for government agencies. It is one of the fastest growing areas of government acquisitions, allowing for streamlined ordering procedures and increased purchasing volume. For industry, it births must-play contracts utilized government-wide for supplies and services, and raises unique compliance and sales issues. |
| FC35 | GSA Schedule Renewals Learn about the new GSA process for exercising options to extend the term of your Multiple Award Schedule Contract. This one day course will provide you insight into the new process called OPEN (Option Process to Ensure iNtegrity). We will share all the tips for success in preparing for the OPEN process. We will review any changes such as Basis of Award, Commercial Sales Practices or changes to Terms and Conditions that must now be addressed prior to the OPEN process. Learn about the new GSA Report Card that will be reviewed prior to Option Renewal and what role the report plays in the OPEN process. |
| FC11 | GSA & VA Schedule Audit Issues Are you up-to-date with all the changes in GSA Schedule contracting? Is your company complying with the Price Reductions Clause? GSA contracts have traditionally been subject to less government oversight than traditional government contracts, but this is changing. In the wake of recent contracting abuses under GSA contracts, GSA has made it clear that it will do more pre- and postcontract audits and compliance reviews of GSA contractors. GSA contractors must anticipate that they will be subject to one or more audits or compliance reviews under their GSA contracts. Through this course you will learn how and why GSA or other federal agencies exercise their audit rights and how you can effectively prepare for and respond to those audits and compliance reviews. |
| FC42 | How to Get Paid The Federal Government is required by law to pay its contractors, on-time, when contractors follow the correct procedures. If it fails to do so, the contractor can collect interest, even penalties, on the unpaid amounts. Understanding how the system works can reduce the amount of time your invoicing staff spends chasing payments and improve your cash flow. In this two-day course, you will get a through primer on the Prompt Pay Act, plus tools you can use to cut through red tape, improve your on-time payment percentage, and collect the appropriate fees when the government pays late. Exercises based on real-life payment scenarios and case studies will be used to ensure the information can be put to use in your everyday work environment. |
| FC08 | Intellectual Property Rights in Federal Contracts Interpret and understand the complex rules and regulations governing intellectual property. When the federal government is involved, numerous complex laws, regulations and policy considerations arise. This course provides an in-depth understanding of the issues impacting IP under federal contracts, grants, and cooperative agreements. Learn about the legal issues affecting inventions, trade secrets, copyrights, proprietary data, and computer software. Gain practical skills to draft solid agreements. |
| FC39 | Intermediate FAR The Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and its supplements are the source documents used when contracting with both federal defense and civilian agencies. A close and detailed working knowledge of the FAR is mandatory for the government, contractor, and subcontractor personnel. FAR Less Complicated provides the introduction and overview materials on the Federal Acquisition Regulations. This is a follow-up mid level course that identifies specific section of the FAR for analysis and discussion on implementation. |
| FC27 | Negotiation Strategies & Techniques If you are reading this and considering a course in Negotiation Strategies and Techniques you are probably either preparing to negotiate a deal or anticipate negotiation of deals in the near future. This is an intensive three day course designed to change negotiation from an intimidating process to a challenging and actually enjoyable process. Learn negotiation as a game that leads to success, if you do it right. Learn the strategies and techniques necessary to be successful by breaking the negotiation process into three components; the plan, the negotiation, the closing. Learn to design the strategic negotiation plan. Learn the techniques for implementing that plan. Learn the techniques for closing the deal. Gain the knowledge and the fortitude necessary to be a successful negotiator. |
| FC32 | Service Contract Act The Service Contract Act (SCA) is one of the most challenging acts in federal contracting. The SCA covers the award and administration of covered contracts. Attendees are provided with a detailed comprehensive text that covers the regulations, board and court decisions and the latest compliance issues from the Department of Labor. This class provides detailed information on how to identify and mitigate risk under the SCA. |
| FC43 | Statements of Work & Evaluation Poorly written or ambiguous work statements can result in protests, unsatisfactory contractor performance, delays, claims, disputes, and increased contract costs. Conversely, a high-quality document leads to a greater likelihood of successful contractor performance. This 3-day, hands-on training session will give all government acquisition personnel involved in the proposal process the tools they need to accurately describe agency requirements, incorporate performance-based factors, communicate performance expectations, and write a quality statement of work. |
| FC12 | Subcontracting Under the FAR Gain the skills necessary to understand every key issue in subcontracting today. This course covers the complex relationships between the federal government, prime contractors and subcontractors. This course is a must for negotiating subcontracts and managing subcontractors whether you are a buyer, seller or government official. After completing this course you will understand contract flow-down clauses, consent clauses, make or buy plans, privity, sponsorship, and subcontracting plans. |
| FC15 | Subcontracting Issues Workshop—Taking Basic Concepts to the Next Level Take an advanced look at the complex relationships, critical issues, and keys to success needed to meet the demands of today's subcontracting environment. Subcontracts are more prevalent than ever and are often at the core of a program's success. This course is a must for reaching the next level, and mastering the complex nature of today's subcontracts. |
| FC18 | Task/Delivery Order Contracting, with Workshop Task and delivery order contracts provide government agencies with flexible arrangements for acquiring a wide variety of supplies and services. This can present agencies and contractors with as many problems and complexities as it does benefits and flexibility. This course will cover the legal and practical aspects of task and delivery order contracting. Participants will understand these flexible arrangements and how to avoid problems that can arise when they are used. Learn about the new competition rules on task order contracting, and the possible evolution on the horizon of this contract type. |
| FC46 | What Every In-House Attorney Needs to Know about Federal Contracting This course puts together all the pieces for in-house lawyers working for federal government contractors or those wanting to enter the federal space. It is taught by lawyers for lawyers. Law School covers the basics of contract law and the basics of business law. Your first legal position may have prepared you to negotiate or litigate. When you begin working for a corporation you have to handle federal contracting issues that will influence the mission and the bottom line. Your employer is counting on you to understand the issues. This course combines some of the basics of federal contracting, with the nuts and bolts of compliance issues, subcontractor issues and hot topics in one fast paced course geared toward lawyers. Your courseware is more than a PowerPoint. It covers the laws, regulations and case law. You’ll use it as a reference tool for years to come. |
Government Contracting Curriculum (FAC-C, FAC-COTR, FAC-P/PM)
| Course # | Name and Description |
|---|---|
| GV22 | Appropriations Law This one-day course gives industry and government managers who handle federal funds a concise overview of fiscal and appropriation law principles and contract funding. Taught by Meg Archibald, one of the initial authors of the GAO Red Book, you will explore concepts, current legislation, budgeting and spending process management, and compliance issues associated with Federal Appropriations. |
| GV02 | CON 100: Shaping Smart Business Arrangements This seminar provides a comprehensive introduction to the environment, responsibilities, and skills required of government contracting professionals. This wide-ranging course covers everything from how to work in teams, to the various DOD mission areas, to the regulatory framework governing acquisitions. Jumpstart your career with this exciting, expansive course, and be an integral player in fulfilling your agency's mission. |
| GV04 | CON 120: Contracting for Mission Support CON 120 is the level I capstone course for federal contracting students. Using an integrated case study approach, this seminar engages the students in the entire acquisition process, from meeting with the customer to completing the contract closeout process. Students will learn how to apply leadership, problem-solving, and negotiation skills to the contracting process. |
| GV11 | CON 215: Intermediate Contracting for Mission Support In this 8-day interactive course, attendees will apply learned acquisition principles and critical thinking skills to develop business strategies that meet customer requirements. Through the use of a realistic service contracting case study, attendees will focus on critical mission support areas such as customer needs analysis, strategic sourcing, procurement strategy development, and source selection execution. |
| GV13 | Construction COTR This five-day course provides COR/COTRs who work with construction contracts basic training to improve core competencies, incorporate best practices into their daily contract management duties, and stay up-to-date on changing contracting rules and procedures. |
| GV14 | Contract Closeout Contract closeout procedures can vary widely based on contract type, complexity of the contract, price adjustments, and numerous other factors. It is important for Contracting Officers, COTRs/CORs, ACO’s and other members of the close out team to be up to date on the rules, regulations, procedures and best practices involved in this essential task. Building a solid relationship with the cognizant players, such as payment and audit offices, the contractor, and labor representatives can help perfect the process as well. |
| GV06 | COR/COTR Refresher The roles of the contracting officer’s technical representative (COTR) and contracting officer's representative (COR) fuse subject-matter expertise with business management and contracting know-how. COR?COTR Refresher provides an update your knowledge to keep pace with new regulations, rules, and directives. This course is for the experienced Contracting Officer's Representative (COR), Contracting Officer's Technical Representative (COTR), Technical Officer (TO), and Project Officer (PO). |
| GV03 | COR/COTR Essentials The roles of the contracting officer’s technical representative (COTR) and contracting officer's representative (COR) fuse subject-matter expertise with business management and contracting know-how. COTR Essentials provides an in-depth study of project management skills, procurement regulations, and each step in the contracting life cycle. Utilizing workshops, lectures, and instructor-led discussion, this seminar lays the foundation for your successful management of government contracts. You will develop the skills you need to succeed through workshops. |
| GV45 | Cost & Price Realism for Government Government agencies are under new directives to establish guidelines for developing internal cost estimates when planning all acquisitions over $100,000, and to use these frameworks when evaluating contractor cost proposals. But there is no cookie-cutter approach to determining realistic cost and pricing and missteps can lead to delays, wasted funding, and contractor protests. This two-day, hands-on course helps demystify the process and aids agencies in complying with the requirements. |
| GV20 | Cost Reimbursement Contracting Cost Reimbursement contracts offer Federal agencies flexibility when requirements cannot be defined well enough to estimate a fixed price. But unless they are negotiated, implemented and monitored correctly, agencies risk cost overruns and wasteful spending. With these contracts under increased OMB, GAO and Congressional scrutiny, all personnel who work with them should ensure their knowledge and skills are up-to-date. In this two-day course, you will get a through primer on the use of cost reimbursement contracts and strategies to mitigate the risks associated with them. Realistic exercises and case studies will be used to illustrate the proper use of these contracts in your everyday work environment. |
| GV09 | Empowering FOIA Responders Are you responsible for processing or responding to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and/or Privacy Act (PA) requests for your government agency? Do you dread reviewing and releasing documents for fear of making a mistake? Are you collecting FOIA fees? Is your internal agency or office FOIA process broken? Is the FOIA backlog piling up? This one-day course will help you understand the government’s obligations and rights under FOIA and will arm you with information to enable you to confidently handle any FOIA requests that come your way. It also will help you to begin developing a streamlined process for managing your FOIA workload and records. |
| GV16 | Government Contract Law Don't miss this advanced course for those interested in learning about federal contract law. This course covers the rules, regulations, and laws governing federal acquisition, and delves behind the "what" with the why, strengthening participants' understanding of the framework in which they function. Case studies, workshops, and a detailed textbook bring this the law to life for course attendees. |
| GV01 | Performance-Based Services
Acquisition Service contracting has grown dramatically in recent years. The federal government spends billions of dollars annually on mandated performance-based contracting for information technology, technical, clerical, and professional services. This course provides government and industry personnel with the necessary analytical skills to analyze and implement successful performance-based acquisition strategies. |
| GV12 | Protect Your Agency from Protests Centre Consulting has taken our traditional courses on Protest Avoidance, Compliance with Procurement Law, and Source Selection and merged them into a four day workshop that focuses on what the Contracting Officer and their staff can do to avoid protests from unsuccessful bidders. The workshop focuses on the steps that the contracting shop can and must take. The course is designed to provide practical steps, what you can do within the framework of the current government regulations, so that the award will not be protested. The course will also address questions about designing evaluation mechanisms, conducting debriefings, mitigating protest risks, identifying possible protest issues from the beginning, and insuring that the proper steps were taken and that the documents meet all requirements. |
| GV33 | Service Contract Act for Government Employees The Service Contract Act (SCA) is one of the most challenging acts in federal contracting. The SCA covers the award and administration of covered contracts. Attendees are provided with a detailed comprehensive text that covers more than the regulations, board and court decisions and the latest compliance issues from the Department of Labor. You will learn how to do price adjustments, handle conformance requests and SCA contract management issues in our interactive workshops. |
| GV05 | Seven Steps to Avoid Bid Protests Centre's course 7 Steps to Avoid Bid Protests provides government contracting professionals key insight into why contractors file protests, how to mitigate protest risk, and how to win protests filed, taught by licensed attorneys who have represented industry clients large and small. |
| GV38 | Task/Delivery Order for Government Agencies are being hit with the popularity of Task Order/ Delivery Order contracts, whether they are Federal Supply Schedules, Government Wide Acquisition Contracts, Multi Agency Contracts or Multi Award Contracts. Procurement shops are asking when should I use this type of contract. If it is my best approach, agencies are asking how do I use this type contract. This course was designed to assist the government agency in making the correct decision on usage and implementing that decision. |
| GV41 | Utilizing Small Businesses - A Government Class OMB has made meeting small business goals one of its highest priorities – and agency progress toward those goals is being closely monitored. It is now the responsibility of all acquisition personnel, not just the small business representative, to ensure agencies strive to meet their goals. This two-day course will give you a concise overview of the expectations, plus tools and techniques to help your agency comply with small business requirements and improve performance on your next scorecard. |
Certified Schedules Contracts Manager (CSCM)
| Course # | Name and Description |
|---|---|
| FC01 | Boot Camp™ for GSA Contracting GSA Schedule contracting is one of the federal government's preferred procurement methods. However, recent well-publicized abuses of GSA schedules have shined the spotlight on the need for greater oversight, and the government is responding. Do you have the skills necessary to navigate the growing regulations while profiting from these vehicles? This intensive two-day course will provide the skills you need to understand and negotiate your own GSA and VA Schedules and modifications. Learn how best-value is determined under task orders and why the basis-of-award concept is critical. Gain a thorough understanding of the cutting-edge issues in the dynamic Schedules market. You will also learn about the current developments and hot topics in GSA Federal Supply Schedule, MAC and IDIQ contracting. |
| FC14 | FAR "Less Complicated" The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and its supplements are the source documents when contracting with both federal defense and civilian agencies. A close and detailed working knowledge of the FAR is mandatory for government, contractor, and subcontractor personnel. This course offers critical information that will help both contracting and technical personnel understand how to negotiate superior contracts and maintain compliance. The instructor will demonstrate how to access, search and update the FAR. |
| FC02 | Federal Contracting Basics Gain an in-depth understanding of the basic framework and core principles governing federal procurements, from the issuance of the solicitation to contract closeout. This course is specifically tailored for procurement professionals who desire both a strong overview of federal contracts, including GSA Schedules, and a current and in-depth understanding of the legal, policy, and performance issues associated with government contracts. You will also gain the important ability to recognize and respond to the full range of issues that typically arise in federal contracting. |
| FC04 | Federal Contract Management This course provides project managers useful tools and techniques to ensure performance-based contracts are well written and managed through monitoring, tracking, and reporting. The fundamentals of project management are provided as a baseline for federal contract management. Federal contract managers will be able to solve complex contracting issues dealing with types and forms of contracts, comparisons between contract vehicles, contract administration, contract modifications, compliance, subcontracting, price estimating and adjustments, financing and payment, procurement integrity, reporting to management, and managing difficult situations. Enhance your skills with our hands-on workshop. |
| FC17 | Fundamentals of Interagency Contracting Interagency contracting can create savings in time and money for government agencies. It is one of the fastest growing areas of government acquisitions, allowing for streamlined ordering procedures and increased purchasing volume. For industry, it births must-play contracts utilized government-wide for supplies and services, and raises unique compliance and sales issues. |
| GV16 | Government Contract Law Don't miss this advanced course for those interested in learning about federal contract law. This course covers the rules, regulations, and laws governing federal acquisition, and delves behind the "what" with the why, strengthening participants' understanding of the framework in which they function. Case studies, workshops, and a detailed textbook bring this the law to life for course attendees. |
| FC11 | GSA & VA Schedule Audit Issues Are you up-to-date with all the changes in GSA Schedule contracting? Is your company complying with the Price Reductions Clause? GSA contracts have traditionally been subject to less government oversight than traditional government contracts, but this is changing. In the wake of recent contracting abuses under GSA contracts, GSA has made it clear that it will do more pre- and postcontract audits and compliance reviews of GSA contractors. GSA contractors must anticipate that they will be subject to one or more audits or compliance reviews under their GSA contracts. Through this course you will learn how and why GSA or other federal agencies exercise their audit rights and how you can effectively prepare for and respond to those audits and compliance reviews. |
| FC27 | Negotiation Strategies & Techniques If you are reading this and considering a course in Negotiation Strategies and Techniques you are probably either preparing to negotiate a deal or anticipate negotiation of deals in the near future. This is an intensive three day course designed to change negotiation from an intimidating process to a challenging and actually enjoyable process. Learn negotiation as a game that leads to success, if you do it right. Learn the strategies and techniques necessary to be successful by breaking the negotiation process into three components; the plan, the negotiation, the closing. Learn to design the strategic negotiation plan. Learn the techniques for implementing that plan. Learn the techniques for closing the deal. Gain the knowledge and the fortitude necessary to be a successful negotiator. |
| GV01 | Performance-Based Services
Acquisition Service contracting has grown dramatically in recent years. The federal government spends billions of dollars annually on mandated performance-based contracting for information technology, technical, clerical, and professional services. This course provides government and industry personnel with the necessary analytical skills to analyze and implement successful performance-based acquisition strategies. |
| GV05 | Seven Steps to Avoid Bid Protests Centre's course 7 Steps to Avoid Bid Protests provides government contracting professionals key insight into why contractors file protests, how to mitigate protest risk, and how to win protests filed, taught by licensed attorneys who have represented industry clients large and small. |
FC18 | Task/Delivery Order Contracting, with Workshop Task and delivery order contracts provide government agencies with flexible arrangements for acquiring a wide variety of supplies and services. This can present agencies and contractors with as many problems and complexities as it does benefits and flexibility. This course will cover the legal and practical aspects of task and delivery order contracting. Participants will understand these flexible arrangements and how to avoid problems that can arise when they are used. Learn about the new competition rules on task order contracting, and the possible evolution on the horizon of this contract type. |
Program and Project Management
| Course # | Name and Description |
|---|---|
| PM11 | Advanced Acquisition Management This three-day course provides a comprehensive introduction to government acquisitions, including both governmentwide and agency-specific rules, regulations, and procedures. Attendees gain an understanding of the factors that influence cost, schedule, performance, and the use of market research to define acquisition strategies, including requirements development. |
| PM12 | Advanced Program Management Project Management III builds on the skills, tools, and techniques taught in earlier project management courses. This three-day course further helps participants to manage the development of program goals and to define project scope. Students learn the intricacies of total life cycle management, including the creation of an integrated master plan that addresses inputs, outputs, and deliverables for each phase of a project’s life cycle and ensures effective linkages to the Work Breakdown Structure and Earned Value Management. By honing test and evaluation, estimating, risk management, and decision analysis skills, attendees become capable of managing entire programs and the largest, most complicated projects. |
| PM04 | Basic Acquisitions This three-day course provides a comprehensive introduction to government acquisitions, including both governmentwide and agency-specific rules, regulations, and procedures. Attendees gain an understanding of the factors that influence cost, schedule, performance, and the use of market research to define acquisition strategies, including requirements development. |
| PM08 | Building and Managing Dynamic Teams This three-day course is targeted at more experienced project managers, who understand the basics of team dynamics, but are looking to further their understanding of team dynamics, management styles, and conflict resolution. |
| PM06 | Earned Value Management (EVM) and Cost Estimates I Cost tracking techniques are an important part of managing projects. This three-day course enables the professional to describe EVM policies, techniques, methodologies, and software for performance measurements. We focus on areas such as the Integrated Baseline Review process, allocation of funds within appropriation categories, and financial management reporting. |
| PM10 | Earned Value Management (EVM)
and Cost Estimates II Earned value management requires sophisticated IT tools. This three-day course teaches how to utilize such tools, conduct EVM analysis and implement changes based on that analysis, re-engineer processes for continuous improvement, and analyze resource needs. |
| PM15 | Earned Value Management (EVM)
and Cost Estimates III Earned Value Management and Cost Estimates III is the final course in the EVM series. This three-day course teaches students to direct and manage EVM across an entire program, utilizing advanced program management skills, to effectively plan resource needs and manage projects to plan. |
| PM01 | Foundations of Effective Leadership Proper project management is critical to the success of your contract. This course will help you manage your contracts and risk more effectively. Learn how to maximize team performance, navigate the legal processes and other techniques which will facilitate contracting success. |
| PM05 | Government Specific I This three-day course covers the government-specific component of federal projects, including the roles and integration of the acquisition team, acquisition planning, developing project specifications, formulating a formal source selection plan, contract administrative actions, and Management’s Responsibility for Internal Control (OMB Circular A-123) and Capital Asset Planning (OMB Exhibit 300). |
| PM09 | Government Specific II In this three-day course, attendees learn how to develop an overall strategy for managing an acquisition, including coordination and development of its strategy taking into account such factors as socioeconomic status. This course covers risk analysis in developing the source selection criteria, contract performance tracking and administrative actions, and financial planning. |
| PM14 | Government Specific III Government Specific III integrates government-unique competencies into program and project management tools. This three-day course teaches students how to work effectively with the contracting officers throughout a project’s life cycle, from preaward through closeout, building on knowledge of laws, rules, regulations, and concepts gained from earlier courses. This course is the capstone for the senior-level FAC-P/PM certification; graduates have the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully manage FAC-P/PM on behalf of the federal government and the U.S. taxpayer. |
| PM13 | Leadership and Management Skills for Supervisors Establishing correct and effective leadership and interpersonal skills requires applied skills in communications management and a strong understanding of team project, the focus of this three-day course. |
| PM17 | Life-Cycle Management This three-day course provides an understanding of how to align the specific project lifecycle with the project management lifecycle. Attendees will develop a basic understanding of the tools, processes, and techniques involved in the project life-cycle. |
| PM16 | Project Management Applications Project Management Application converts project management knowledge into project management experience through in-depth simulation. This course addresses finance, acquisition, and interpersonal issues through case study and exercises that mirror the real-world challenges of successfully managing resources, budgets, and stakeholders’ expectations. Participants should come to this course with a comprehensive understanding of project management concepts, tools, and techniques. |
| PM03 | Project Management Level I Project Management I provides foundational knowledge of the skills, tools, and techniques required to successfully satisfy project requirements. This comprehensive course introduces the five project management processes and nine project management knowledge areas, ensuring participants can successfully track and manage projects to budget and schedule. Participants can apply the concepts taught in this course to projects large and small, from IT to construction to administrative. Additional topics include performance-based requirements and outcomes; Total Ownership Cost and Life Cycle Cost; risk management and control, automated information systems life cycle management, and performance-based logistics. |
| PM07 | Project Management Level II This three-day course builds on an attendee’s existing project management skills, and enables the professional to develop and document an integrated master schedule, determine total ownership cost, and develop a life cycle plan. Additional skills taught include managing to the performance-based work plan and balancing the triple constraint. |
Leadership, Human Capital, Change Management, and NSPS
| Course # | Name and Description |
|---|---|
| PM08 | Building and Managing Dynamic Teams This three-day course is targeted at more experienced project managers, who understand the basics of team dynamics, but are looking to further their understanding of team dynamics, management styles, and conflict resolution. |
| PM01 | Foundations of Effective Leadership Proper project management is critical to the success of your contract. This course will help you manage your contracts and risk more effectively. Learn how to maximize team performance, navigate the legal processes and other techniques which will facilitate contracting success. |
| PM13 | Leadership and Management Skills for Supervisors Establishing correct and effective leadership and interpersonal skills requires applied skills in communications management and a strong understanding of team project, the focus of this three-day course. |
AUDIO SEMINARS
| Course # | Name and Description |
|---|---|
| AU02 | Bid Protests Update The General Accounting Office (GAO) recently announced that the number of bid protests filed in 2008 represented a ten year high in terms of protest frequency. And although the rate of successful or sustained protests dipped slightly in 2008, more than 20% of all protest filed in 2008 were sustained, resulting in a range of remedies from new procurements to re-opened award decisions. Learn the essential issues driving and affecting protests in today’s environment. |
| AU04 | Essential GSA/VA Contract Management Survival Skills The Federal Supply Schedules managed by the General Services Administration (GSA) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are unique contract instruments that pose special challenges to contract managers and administrators. The inability to effectively manage these unique requirements will cause your Schedule contracts to lose their profitability and can lead to extremely unpleasant consequences in the event of GSA/VA audits are conducted. Learn the essential skills your company must possess in order to survive and thrive under GSA/VA Schedule contracts. |
| AU07 | GSA/VA Schedule Renewals Audio Seminar Schedule contract renewals are becoming increasingly challenging as the days of “automatic” renewals are long gone. Today both GSA and VA require assurances that the pricing on Schedules remain “fair and reasonable” and that Schedule vendors have complied with their contract obligations prior to exercising the 5 year renewal option. In addition, Schedule vendors with high schedule sales are subject to a pre-award audit of their renewal application by the GSA or VA OIG. Attend this audio seminar to understand the “hot buttons” impacting Schedule renewals and learn how to best respond to them. |
| AU01 | Surviving the New GSA Report Card Prepare for the new GSA Report Card for assessing the compliance of schedule contractors. GSA will be evaluating new areas such as systems and processes to monitor the “basis of award” pricing and the use of electronic contracting tools. In the new Report Card, there are nine areas determined to be critical. Failure in any of the nine areas causes a rating of “serious concerns exist”. This new rating system will be used by contracting officers in deciding on whether or not to renew options. Are you prepared for these new audits? Prepare now so you are not surprised later. |
Alternative Dispute Resolution
| Course # | Name and Description |
|---|---|
| ADR | ADR Series Gain an overview of the ADR process, how to participate in effective mediations, the necessary skills to mediate disputes, and the hands-on skills necessary to serve as an ADR neutral with this comprehensive series of alternative dispute resolution training. |
Online Courses
| Course # | Name and Description |
|---|---|
| FC17 | Fundamentals of Interagency Contracting Interagency contracting can create savings in time and money for government agencies. It is one of the fastest growing areas of government acquisitions, allowing for streamlined ordering procedures and increased purchasing volume. For industry, it births must-play contracts utilized government-wide for supplies and services, and raises unique compliance and sales issues. |
internet law courses
| Course # | Name and Description |
|---|---|
| FC49 | Annual Review: Hot Internet Law Topics Because the internet is still evolving quickly, the law that guides internet companies changes constantly. To help internet companies keep up to date and stay abreast of the issues that broke in 2011 and are projected to break in 2012, Centre offers this one day course chock filled with practical advice. Don't be unprepared for what's around the corner, because like it or not, legal developments affect how everyone does business. |
| AU09 | Avoid Cybersquatters and Brand Assassins Audio Seminar Cybersquatters have registered similar domain names. Competitors are trashing your company you on Yelp and other review websites. Hate websites and your social media outlets are the target of hateful rhetoric about your company? We may not be able to give you all the answers in 90 minutes, but we can sure come close. Learn how to avoid the inevitable brand assassins and cybersquatters that will come calling when you start to enjoy some success. |
| AU11 | Geolocation and Data Retention Issues Audio Seminar If your company has an internet presence (or even if it's not), there is a decent chance that it is retaining geolocation data and information about its customers. There are a myriad of rules and regulations that govern what you can and can't do with that data. This course will give you an overview of that to help avoid your company from landing in hot water. |
| AU10 | Hacking in Your Company - Audio Seminar Believe it or not, hacking is pretty common among companies of all shapes and sizes. Get a primer on what "hacking" is: hint-it's much broader than you think. Figure out how to set internal standards and security to avoid internal hacking and understand the landscape from cyber-attackers. |
| AU12 | IP Highlights and Tips Audio Seminar Intellectual property law is a complex and often misunderstood maze. Get a high level overview of IP with this audio on what it is and how to protect your company's IP. Also, get a rundown on what to do if you're threatened with a suit claiming theft of another's IP (or how to avoid that situation). |
| FC51 | Protect Your Business with the Proper Agreements The largest issue most growing and established companies face is not having the proper written agreements in place with co-owners, investors, employees, and independent contractors (just ask the founder of Facebook!). This course can literally save your business from years of litigation or threats that assets and IP do not belong to the company. We will go over sample agreements and instruct on the minimum agreements a company should have in place with different categories of individuals and entities. |
| FC50 | Protect Your Trade Secrets, Copyrights, and Trademarks Your intellectual property is your most valuable asset. From the trade secrets that embody your entire business, to your trademarks that identify your business to its customers, to copyrights and patents that are the brainchildren of your company, losing your IP or having it appropriated by others without authorization would be devastating. This course will give you a primer on how to protect your IP, how to prevent from losing it and what to do if it is misappropriated. This course is essential. |
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