Effective Skills for Contract Administration

Introduction:

This self-paced course on administrative skills related to contracts is designed for individuals who already possess basic knowledge of theory, practices, and tools pertinent to contract management and administration. The course will enhance their understanding of the steps and actions necessary for effective contract execution post-award.

The content includes best practices in contract administration and a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of contract administrators.

Objectives:

By the end of this contract administration skills course, participants will be able to:

• Document and narrate the major activities and steps in contract administration, highlighting their importance.
• Identify administration tools used during implementation and appreciate the role of the contract administrator.
• Develop a system for contractor evaluation, assess strengths and weaknesses, and justify the importance of partnerships in contract management.
• Describe causes and types of variation orders, claims, and damages.
• Prepare to negotiate contract variations and claims to achieve satisfactory settlements.

Training Methodology:

• Interactive lectures
• Case studies
• Group discussions
• Role-playing scenarios
• Simulation activities
• Review and feedback sessions
• Tools & techniques demonstrations
• Q&A sessions

Course Outline:

Unit 1: Principles of Contracts

• Creation of a contract
• Contract structure
• Functions of contract management
• Challenges in contract administration
• Stages of contract administration
• Skills of contract administrators

Unit 2: Contract Administration Tools

• Contract administration tools and techniques
• Understanding contractual obligations
• Provisions affecting execution
• Assessment of administration methods
• Analytical methods for contracts
• Records management systems
• Change management systems
• Claims management process
• Issues and risks registers
• Risk containment plans
• Transparent responsibilities
• Progress tracking
• Timelines for deliverables
• Feedback for improvement
• Points on international contracting

Unit 3: Contractor Evaluation

• Performance evaluation forms and questionnaires
• Contractor rating effects on future contracts
• Performance indicators
• Contractor goals and standards
• Service level agreements (SLA)
• Management of subcontractors
• Collaborative work with contractors

Unit 4: Changes, Claims, and Disputes

• Variations and variation orders
• Change process control
• Breach of contract consequences
• Money damages and management
• Concessional relief in breach cases
• Claims and disputes
• Alternative dispute resolution:
  • Mediation
  • Arbitration
• Finalization and close-out recommendations

Unit 5: Negotiation

• Contract negotiation training
• Aims of negotiation
• Negotiation rules compliance

Conclusion:

By mastering the principles of contract administration and the skills taught in this course, participants will be well-prepared to pursue contract administration certification, positioning themselves as proficient contract administrators capable of managing contracts efficiently and effectively.