24: Myth-Busters Education

Launch “myth-busters” education campaign

Other Information:

Commonly-held misunderstandings about how industry and government can engage with one another during the acquisition process place an artificial barrier between Federal agencies and their industry partners. These myths reduce the government’s access to necessary market information as government officials, both program managers and contracting officers, are often unsure how to responsibly engage with their industry counterparts. They may have inaccurate information about the rules, may be overly cautious in their interactions, or may be unaware of communication strategies that can help the government define its requirements and establish sound acquisition strategies. The fact is that the statutory and regulatory framework for communications between industry and government allows significantly greater engagement than current practice. The government therefore needs to raise awareness of these flexibilities to its workforce. OFPP will identify the major myths that most significantly hinder requirements definition and the development of effective acquisition planning and execution. In January 2011, OFPP will issue a memorandum identifying these myths and the related facts and strategies to improve constructive engagement. This effort will be supported through discussions and other outreach efforts with key stakeholders in early 2011 including, but not limited to: * Professional associations and other industry representatives * Federal stakeholders including program managers, contracting professionals, agency attorneys, and ethics officials Throughout 2011, the Federal Acquisition Institute (FAI) and OFPP will conduct a “myth-buster” awareness campaign to eliminate artificial private sector engagement barriers. Steps will include at least the following:

Stakeholder(s):

• Professional Associations


• Industry Representatives


• Federal Program Managers


• Federal Contracting Professionals


• Federal Agency Attorneys


• Federal Ehics Officials

Indicator(s):

Indicator:1

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