Innovation in Acquisition

In 2014, the Federal Government acknowledged that simplifying the Federal contracting space was critical to driving greater innovation, creativity, and improved performance. Efforts were launched with the goal of improving the economy and efficiency of the Federal acquisition system by increasing opportunities for businesses to participate in the Federal marketplace whereby realizing costs savings and providing the best solution for the taxpayer.

Transformation and modernization didn’t happen overnight. Achieving a more innovative, efficient and effective acquisition system that supports the needs of a 21st century Government takes initiative, adaptability, buy-in and the proper tools to implement an actionable plan. To that end, the Government implemented a number of policies and guidance to agencies that identified the actions necessary to address industry concerns and strengthen and improve Federal acquisition practices. In our last episode, we focused on one approach to improve efficiency and achieve greater cost savings by managing spend through category management. In this episode, we continue to drill down into the Federal Government’s initiative to transform Federal acquisition by driving innovation through various tools, training, and more flexible and innovative acquisition practices.

This episode’s panel includes:

• Robert Kirzow, Director, Procurement Service A, VA TAC
• Matthew Ginty, Director, Procurement Service D, VA TAC
• Joshua Cohen, Contracting Officer, VA TAC