Procurement & SOW Development Flashcards

A project manager is evaluating seller proposals using a weighted scoring model. What is the primary advantage of this approach over selecting the lowest bidder?

Answer: It enables objective comparison of both technical and cost factors simultaneously

A weighted scoring model provides a structured, objective way to balance technical merit, management approach, past performance, and price in a single evaluation score.

Which section of a SOW typically defines the schedule, including milestones and required delivery dates?

Answer: Period of performance

The period of performance section specifies the contract start and end dates, key milestones, and any interim delivery deadlines.

A seller consistently delivers late but within the contract's liquidated damages threshold. What is the buyer's BEST long-term procurement strategy?

Answer: Document the performance issues and consider them in future source selection evaluations

Documenting chronic late delivery creates a performance record used in future source selections, incentivizing the seller to improve and protecting the buyer in future procurements.

A project manager is drafting a SOW for IT services. The team debates whether to specify the exact number of FTEs or the required outcomes. Which approach is generally preferred in modern procurement?

Answer: Focus on outcomes and performance standards, letting the seller determine staffing

Outcome-based SOWs give sellers flexibility to staff efficiently while holding them accountable for measurable results, often yielding better value and innovation.

Under PMBOK, which process group contains the 'Control Procurements' process?

Answer: Monitoring and Controlling

Control Procurements falls within the Monitoring and Controlling process group, where the project manager oversees contract performance and manages changes.

A project manager receives a unilateral change order from the contracting officer modifying the SOW. What is the seller's obligation?

Answer: The seller must perform the change but may request an equitable adjustment to price or schedule

Government and many commercial contracts allow unilateral changes by the buyer; the seller must comply but is entitled to negotiate an equitable adjustment for cost and schedule impacts.

Which of the following is the MOST critical characteristic of acceptance criteria in a well-written SOW?

Answer: They are measurable, verifiable, and linked to specific deliverables

Effective acceptance criteria must be measurable and verifiable so both parties can objectively determine whether deliverables meet contractual requirements.