Dictionary of Procurement Terms

An action to change and extend a contract termination date pursuant to a provision in the original contract and typically upon written mutual agreement by both parties.

A file containing a copy of a contract and documentation of all contract administration actions.

Planned functions that are to be performed before the parties have signed a contract (e.g., development of the solicitation, scope of work, terms and conditions) and the negotiation of a contract that is mutually beneficial for the entity and the supplier.

A term generally used in construction projects in seeking a good faith effort on the part of the prime contractor to have a certain level of minority subcontracting participation in the entity’s project. See also: Goal, Set-Aside.

The overarching process that includes the functions of both contract formation and contract administration. See also: Surveillance, Contract Administration.

Any written alteration in specifications, delivery point, frequency of delivery, period of performance, price, quantity, or other provisions of the contract, accomplished by mutual agreement of the parties to the contract. See also: Amendment, Authorized Deviation, Change Order, Contract Amendment.

A numeric or alpha-numeric code that serves as a unique contract identifier.

The process by which the efforts of all personnel responsible for an acquisition are coordinated and integrated through a comprehensive plan for fulfilling the needs of the government in a timely manner and at a reasonable cost.

A report providing detailed information on the orders or releases placed for the delivery of goods against a contract so the volume of contract purchases can be determined.

A clause in the contract that allows the contract term or period to renew for an additional time period as defined in the current contract.