1.102-4
Acquisition Team
FAR 1.102-4 emphasizes that all participants, from customer to contractor, are part of the Acquisition Team and must collaborate openly to achieve acquisition goals.
Overview
- FAR 1.102-4 defines the "Acquisition Team" as encompassing all participants in the Federal Acquisition System, from the initial customer to the final contractor. The intent is to foster teamwork, unity of purpose, and open communication throughout the acquisition process. Each team member is expected to participate at the appropriate stage, ensuring that the acquisition process is collaborative and goal-oriented.
Key Rules
- Definition of the Acquisition Team
- The Acquisition Team includes everyone involved in the acquisition process, starting with the customer and ending with the contractor.
- Emphasis on Teamwork and Communication
- The regulation encourages open communication, shared vision, and unity of purpose among all team members.
- Appropriate Participation
- Team members are expected to engage in the process at the relevant stages, contributing their expertise as needed.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Facilitate collaboration and communication among all team members and ensure appropriate participation.
- Contractors: Engage as active team members, communicating openly and aligning with the shared goals of the acquisition.
- Agencies: Promote a team-oriented approach and support open communication throughout the acquisition lifecycle.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to break down silos and encourage a collaborative approach to federal acquisitions.
- It impacts daily contracting by promoting early and ongoing involvement of all stakeholders, reducing misunderstandings and inefficiencies.
- Common pitfalls include lack of communication, unclear roles, and failure to involve the right team members at the right time.