POR (Program Of Record)

What is POR (Program Of Record)?

A Program Of Record (POR) represents a formal, approved, and funded government program that has successfully navigated various stages of review and validation within a specific government agency. Achieving POR status signifies a long-term commitment to the program's objectives and continued funding throughout its lifecycle.

Definition

A Program Of Record is a critical designation within government acquisition. It signifies that a proposed initiative has cleared internal agency hurdles, been validated as fulfilling a defined need, and has been incorporated into the agency’s long-range budget plans. This status is usually achieved after successfully completing a series of milestone reviews, demonstrating technical feasibility, and proving a clear return on investment. The POR designation represents a formal commitment by the government to continue funding and developing the program, making it a crucial target for contractors looking for long-term opportunities. The term is widely used across Department of Defense (DoD) and civilian agencies.

Key Points

• Validated Need: The program addresses a documented capability gap or requirement.
• Formal Approval: The program has received formal approval through the agency's acquisition process.
• Dedicated Funding: The program has been allocated specific funding within the agency's budget.
• Long-Term Commitment: POR status signals a sustained commitment to the program's objectives over its lifecycle.

Practical Examples

1. New Weapon System Development: A defense contractor pursuing the development of a new missile defense system seeks to align its capabilities with a program that has achieved POR status, indicating long-term funding and procurement opportunities.
2. IT Modernization Initiative: An IT services company targets a government agency's IT modernization effort that is designated as a Program of Record, ensuring sustained investment in technology upgrades and support services.
3. Healthcare Technology Implementation: A medical device manufacturer focuses on a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) initiative to implement telehealth solutions, specifically targeting those initiatives with a POR designation for consistent procurement and deployment opportunities.