Agile Acquisitions & Alcohol: Recent Episodes
Jonathan B Mostowski
Understanding Federal Government acquisitions can be complicated and overwhelming. With almost two decades of experience as a pioneer in Agile Acquisitions in the Federal Government I provide my lessons learned in short, easy to understand, breakdowns of topics that are critical to buying and selling in this unique market.
In this episode I discuss the difference between agile development and agile acquisitions and provide some key FAR citations to help industry and agencies be more agile. #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitionsandalcohol #myFAR.io #agileacquisitions
In this episode I discuss the different types of Government protest including Agency Level, GAO, and Court of Federal Claims.
https://www.gao.gov/special.pubs/og96024.htm
https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/gao-clarifies-the-scope-of-its-2909433/
In this episode I discuss the importance of government adoption of Consumption Based Service Acquisition models such as those proposed in the NDAA 2021 Section 834.
In this episode I discuss Cooperative Research & Development Agreements (CRADA)and the benefits to industry and the Government.
In this episode I discuss Intellectual property as it relates to Data Rights in Government Contracts.
In this episode I talk about how to improve your understanding and utilization of the Federal Acquisition Regulations
In this episode I discuss the different types of contracts and contract vehicles to help users understand what might best meet their needs.
Relevant FAR Sections: https://myfar.io/parts/16
13 Simplified Acquisitions
16 Types of Contracts
16.1 Selecting Contract Types
16.2 Fixed-Price Contracts
16.3 Cost-Reimbursement Contracts
16.4 Incentive Contracts
16.5 Indefinite-Delivery Contracts
16.6 Time-and-Materials, Labor-Hour, and Letter Contracts
16.7 Agreements
35 Research & Development
In this episode I discuss approaches for entering the Government marketplace.
SBIR: https://www.sbir.gov/about
FAR 19.5: Set-Asides for Small Business myFAR.io
Welcome to part 3 of the Acquisition Principles series. In this episode I discuss:
7 - Leverage the efficiency of commercial contracting methods. If and when possible, use services and tools sold by private sector vendors.
8- Choose diverse teams that have demonstrated success in developing trust, accountability, and navigating cultural barriers. Evaluate demonstrated coding skills and quality of previous delivery expertise as an indicator for future performance.
9 - Get solutions into the hands of users quickly. Incorporate accessibility, security, and usability testing into the process to avoid bottlenecks.
Welcome to part two of the Acquisition Principles for Digital Service. In this episode I will discuss: https://techfarhub.cio.gov/learning-center/principles/
4 - Don’t lock technical requirements into contracts so that new, more effective technologies and methods are not blocked.
5 - Buy design and software development services as a repeated process for the delivery of a working product. Technological enhancements never end. Determine how much of the budget to invest in finding the right solution. Only continue investing in the solution if value is demonstrated.
6 - Buy small, build small, test, and iterate. Set up each contract for a quick win, then determine how to scale that success or pivot quickly.
In this episode I cover the first three of the Acquisition Principles for Digital Service as found on the TechFARHub. Grab a drink and relax as I talk about choosing a mission that matters, paying for performance over time, and separating contractual requirements from technical...Cheers!
In this week's episode, I enjoy a glass of Yellowstone Bourbon and discuss how you can assess an organizations Digital Service Maturity Model, which is essential in understanding how forward leaning an acquisition can be while still being successful and from an industry perspective if the organization is going to put their agile money where their mouth is.
Digital Service Maturity Determination Use this to evaluate and correlate a requiring activities’ organizational maturity in adoption of digital service techniques to the resulting contract action https://techfarhub.cio.gov/learning-center/agile-maturity/
Acquisition Principles for Digital Services https://techfarhub.cio.gov/learning-center/principles/
In part 3 of this 3 part series I provide some insight into some of the innovations that are taking place in DoD in this coming Fiscal Year.
1:05 "DIB SWAP Appendix B.2: Appropriations Subgroup Report" https://media.defense.gov/2019/Jan/16/2002080473/-1/-1/0/DIB_APPROPRIATIONS_SUBGROUP_REPORT_2019.01.15.PDF
1:22 Memorandum: Software Acquisition Pathway Interim Policy and Procedures https://www.acq.osd.mil/ae/assets/docs/USA002825-19%20Signed%20Memo%20(Software).pdf
2:06 Here are the pilot programs for the new Software Budget Appropriation https://acquisitiontalk.com/2020/03/here-are-the-pilot-programs-for-the-new-software-budget-appropriation/
In part 2 of this three part series on Color of Money I cover some of the challenges of current appropriation law. This deep dive focuses on DoD but the challenges apply broadly.
2:02 You can learn more about operating under a continuing resolution at https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/research_reports/RR2200/RR2263/RAND_RR2263.pdf
2:42 some light reading on the execution of funds from the DoD FMR: https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/documents/fmr/Volume_14.pdf
4:06 DIB SWAP Study on Appropriations https://media.defense.gov/2019/Jan/16/2002080473/-1/-1/0/DIB_APPROPRIATIONS_SUBGROUP_REPORT_2019.01.15.PDF
5:19 for a detailed overview of the DoD budget process http://acqnotes.com/acqnote/acquisitions/ppbe-overview#:~:text=Budgeting%3A%20The%20Budgeting%20phase%20of,ensure%20efficient%20use%20of%20resources
In the first part of this 3 part series discussing color of money, I dive into the fundamentals of different types of appropriations.
In part 3 of this 3 part series on Other Transaction Authority, I provide insight on how to find OTA opportunities, which agencies are using them and what consortiums you can join.
In part 2 of this series on Other transaction Authority (OTA), I discuss the value of using OTA as it compares with FAR based contracting.
In the first part of this 3 part series on Other Transaction Authority I provide a brief overview of the history of OT and how it impacted the use.
In this episode I discuss how COVID 19 is impacting both Government agencies and Government Contractors and provide some tips on how both can take advantage of the new policies being released.
In this episode I share a story about how I helped a company get their product in the hands of users...in the DoD; something that is far harder than it sounds. Check out this video to see how they did it.
In this episode I offer a challenge to Government innovators to pick up an idea that I never got to implement...who will be the first program/contracting office to implement virtual video updates for their acquisitions?
In this episode I provide innovative approaches to selling “products” to the Department of Defense
In this episode I discuss the incredible importance of being a professional and what inspired me.
In this episode I discuss the reality that we really have all the tools we need to conduct innovative acquisitions
In this episode I discuss the risk, or better yet, the perceived risk associated with innovative SW Development
In this episode I discuss the increasing trend of using SBIRs for accessing innovative companies
In this episode I discuss the difference between should and shall in requirements documents especially in agile development requirement documents, you “should” enjoy it and I “shall” be grateful.
In this episode I discuss how industry can and should engage with the federal government throughout the acquisition lifecycle.
In my first post-government episode, I give my honest opinion of the Digital Service and my time in Federal Service
In this episode I follow-on to my previous video discussing “downselect acquisitions” to provide some insights on debriefs and the importance of timing.
In this episode I provide some useful tips on the growing trend in federal procurement around the use of down-selections.
In this episode, I discuss the three most important questions a business advisor should ask when building an acquisition strategy
In this episode I breakdown the IGCE or Independent Government Cost Estimation; what it is, how it is historically done, how it should be done for agile, and what it means for industry.
In this episode I unpack Commercial Contracting in the Federal Government; what it is, how to use it, and what it means to you. Check out the new video format with editing support from Alex Romero; he may have even slipped in a little drinking game if you care to play along.
In this episode I break down the three categories of agile services: Coaching, Training, & Delivery
In this week's episode I discuss the impacts of the Government Shutdown on contracts and contractors.
In this episode I head to Baltimore, MD to talk with Fearless President, Delali Dzirasa about what it means to be a modern tech vendor in the federal marketplace.
In this episode I review Ole Smokey Tennessee Whiskey Mango Habanero Whiskey and respond to Mark Ginise's question regarding contract structures and CLIN length.
In this episode I respond to a viewers request to discuss how you contract for User Experience
In this episode, I respond to a viewer's question regarding the use of Agile Incentives and introduce a new segment, answering the question, "what's he drinking?"
In this episode I talk about how and when Industry can interact with Government Officials
In this episode I talk about Contract Deliverable Requirement Lists (CDRL's) which we should keep, which we should add, and which we should get rid of all together.
In this episode I provide 3 trends I see in the new fiscal year, and provide tips for Agencies and Industry to take advantage of them
In this episode I breakdown the acquisition timeline to answer the age old question, "why does it take so long?"
In this episode it is back to the fundamentals, where I breakdown 6 key factors to the Agile Development Methodology.
In this episode I talk about how just one thing a day can make a difference; keep innovating keep pushing!
In this episode I discuss the importance of small wins in culture change and how, in some ways they may be more important the big wins.
In this episode I dig deep into real hacks in making acquisitions work. Grab a drink, this gets real.
In this episode I respond to a follower’s request to discuss the end of fiscal year and how agencies and industry can respond to use the remaining budgets affectively.
Responding to a viewers request to discuss the acquisition cycle and risks associated with it
In this episode I discuss the implications of the recent GAO ruling on Other Transactions.
agileacquisitions #themoreyouknow #government contracting
agileacquisitionsandalcohol
In this episode I take a coffee break, and breakdown rule number two of Innovation: Knowing the Rules” as I talk about the key sections of the Federal Acquisition Regulations. Check out myFAR.io on your computer or mobile device to review the sections in more details or to ask questions. #agileacquisitions #themoreyouknow
In this episode I respond to a viewer’s question on how a company can stand out when proposing their unique agile development process. #agileacquisitionsandalcohol #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitions
In this episode I unpack the ever present RFI; where does it come from and what is really required. #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitions #agileacquisitionsandalcohol #myfar.io
In this episode I discuss the difference between agile development and agile acquisitions and provide some key FAR citations to help industry and agencies be more agile. #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitionsandalcohol #myFAR.io #agileacquisitions
In this episode I provide an introductory overview of the new myFAR tool, which makes using the FAR easier and accessible. #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitions
In this episode I discuss getting acquisitions in shape for end of fiscal year. Find tips for making your acquisition more efficient by taking advantage of down-selection and self-scoring. #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitions #agileacquisitionsandalcohol
In this video I discuss how agile accommodates change and contract types to support it.
In this video I discuss the importance of the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and announce the launch of myFAR.io Check out myFAR.io to learn more If you want to contribute to the videos visit patreon.com/agileacq #agileacquisitionsandalcohol #themoreyouknow #myFAR
In this episode I discuss how to successfully execute Code Challenges as part of a source selection. You can support these videos by making a contribution at https://www.patreon.com/agileacq #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitionsandalcohol
In this episode I discuss what to do and more importantly what to do when trying to sell to the Federal Government.
In this episode I discuss the use of free trial software by the federal government and the implications; when and why is it OK for the government to use “gratuitous software” #AgileAcquisitionsAndAlcohol #TheMoreYouKnow
In this episode I discuss the implications of the looming government shut down #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitionsandalcohol
An introductory comparison between the first three foundational principles of Small Circle Jujitsu and the art of contracting
In this episode I discuss the importance of open communication in the acquisition process and offer a few suggestions
In this episode I discuss the age old acquisition question every agency faces whether they should build custom sw solutions or buy an existing COTS solution
In this episode I discuss the perception that GovernmentAcquisitions are “wired” for a specific vendor
In this episode I discuss how to explain to stakeholders the difference between MVPs and Legacy replacement
In this weeks episode I discuss Other Transaction Authority (OTA); what it is, and why it matters.
In this episode I discuss a new perspective on how to view agile development for the purposes if Contracting
Discussing the differences between modular contracts and short contracts as they affect vendor staffing
In this episode I discuss the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders in acquisitions
A video Blog discussing culture change around acquiring and selling IT in the Federal Government Ecosystem
A discussion on the use of Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS) for Agile Development
This is the audio recording for the initial Agile Acquisitions V-blog describing why agile and iterative development is so important to the Federal Government