Federal Acquisition

Introduction

Every year the federal government spends billions of dollars on the acquisition of supplies and services to carry out its duties and responsibilities. The government uses complex acquisition policies and procedures to make these purchases. These policies and procedures are followed during each of the four phases of the federal acquisition process: the acquisition planning phase; the solicitation phase; the evaluation, negotiation, and award phase; and the postaward phase.

The acquisition planning phase is the first phase of the federal acquisition process. This phase is very important because it establishes the foundation of the contract. During the planning phase, the government must ensure that:

• Appropriated funds are available ...