ABSTRACT
Chapter Objectives The objectives of this first chapter are to introduce the reader to services contracting for state and local government agencies and explain the characteristics of the contracting cycle and processes involved in advance contract planning. The specific topics presented to the readers include:
Introduction to services contracting in state and local government agencies: ◾ Essential elements of a contract − Distinctive attributes of contracts for services − Participants in state and local government contracting − Best practices research conducted in preparation for writing this book −
The contracting cycle: ◾ Pre-solicitation phase − Solicitation phase − Proposal evaluation − Contract award − Contract administration − Contract closeout −
Advance contract planning: ◾ Implementation of best practices in the contracting process − Implementation of other prudent practices in the contracting process −
1.1 Introduction There are numerous references to terminology used in the field of contract management that begin in Chapter 1 and continue to be introduced throughout the entire book. The terms are defined as they are introduced to the readers. However, in recognition of the need for readers to refresh their understanding of these terms, when they appear in subsequent chapters, the definitions are provided in alphabetical order in Appendix A, “Glossary of Terms.”
