GAO’s DOE Review Shows Why Contractor Self-Oversight Needs Measurable Contract Standards
GAO’s August 2026 review of DOE contractor assurance systems found that contractors were being judged without clearly defined measures of effectiveness. GAO recommends measurable evaluation criteria and clearer contractual performance expectations. The lesson extends beyond nuclear cleanup: contractor self-oversight works only when standards, evidence, corrective actions, and consequences are defined.
Government Contracting’s Real Barrier: Access, Not Opportunity
Dr. Nazeera Dawood argues that government contracting suffers less from a shortage of capable vendors than from barriers that prevent small businesses from competing. This analysis examines the gap between eligibility and accessibility, the consequences for competition and supplier diversity, and how disciplined proposal compliance can help qualified firms reach the evaluation table.
Why Procurement Must Treat Conflict Resolution as a Core Commercial Capability
A 2026 industry report from Resolutiion and CIPS argues that procurement must treat conflict and dispute resolution as a core commercial capability. The findings show that communication gaps, unclear ownership, and limited behavioural training are driving avoidable escalation across supply chains.
When Procurement Decisions Appear Wasteful: A Neutral Framework for Understanding Federal Award Outcomes
An overview of why some federal procurement decisions may appear wasteful, yet still comply with procurement law. Explains the distinction between price alone and best value, the role of technical acceptability and documentation, and how recent GAO decisions illustrate the limits of labeling an award inefficient without a stronger legal basis.
The Federal Procurement Landscape: Themes to Watch in 2025
The top five federal procurement themes for 2025, including reforms, modernization, AI, supply chain resilience, and cybersecurity. Insights by Roger Waldron highlight how these trends will shape the federal acquisition landscape.
Transforming Government Procurement & Contracting: The $100 Billion Opportunity
Read how modernizing U.S. government procurement practices could save $100 billion annually. Insights from the "Most Negotiated Terms 2024" report highlight the benefits of collaboration, flexibility, and innovation in transforming procurement for buyers and suppliers.
The Anticipated Impact of a Second Trump Administration on Federal Procurement
A second Trump administration could reshape federal procurement policies, from cybersecurity to Buy American mandates. Insights from Federal News Network and Eric Crusius reveal potential changes contractors should anticipate.