Critical Roles and Responsibilities of the Contracting Officer's Representative/Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative

The contracting officer’s representative (COR/COTR) plays an essential role in the planning, awarding and management of the government contract. They are the “eyes and ears” of the contracting officer in ensuring that technical requirements are being met and that the contractor is adhering to the terms and scope of the contract. Their technical expertise and project management skills are critical in designing performance-based acquisitions that successfully respond to risk, motivate excellent contractor performance, manage cost and schedule constraints and achieve contract goals and objectives.

In the Critical Roles and Responsibilities of the Government COR/COTR course, you’ll learn the critical roles, responsibilities and best practices for being an effective COR/COTR. The course covers the COR/COTR’s role throughout the government contracting process—from defining initial requirements to effective post-award performance management. You’ll learn the importance of early risk assessment and how risk mitigation and control influences the pre and post award management of the contract. You’ll also learn the many areas of the acquisition process where COR/COTR participation is essential in helping the contracting officer protect the interests of the government during contract execution. For industry attendees, you will gain keen insight into your government customer and how your company can help support the important role of the COR/COTR.

You will develop skills through various practical exercises and will receive a course manual containing many useful references that can be used long after you have completed the class.

What You Will Learn:

• Defining the scope of the acquisition through use of a contract Work Breakdown Structure
• Identifying, analyzing and documenting risk
• Conducting market research and effectively collaborating with industry
• Planning and implementing a performance based services acquisition
• Developing a risk-focused Request for Proposal and evaluation criteria
• Understanding and participating in a best value source selection
• Properly executing the roles and responsibilities of the COR/COTR in post-award contract performance

You'll Take Home:

• A checklist of COR/COTR critical roles and responsibilities
• 7 Guidelines for Effective Communication
• Section-by-section tips for writing and revising Performance Work Statements
• Sample performance indicators and measurement techniques
• 5 steps for effective change orders