Pathway 1: FAR-Free Acquisition

Used when agency needs are clear, but the solution is not fully defined.

• Solicitation method: Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)
• Industry proposes commercial solutions, not compliance-driven proposals
• Selection is based on agency needs and stated selection criteria
• The resulting award may be:
  • an Other Transaction (OT), or
  • a FAR Part 12 commercial contract

Aligned with Executive Order 14265 — Modernizing Defense Acquisitions and Spurring Innovation in the Defense Industrial Base

EO 14265 — Modernizing Defense Acquisitions

This Executive Order directs agencies to:

• Use CSOs to access commercial and nontraditional suppliers
• Reduce barriers created by overly prescriptive requirements
• Focus on evaluating solutions rather than mandating designs
• Use flexible award approaches, including OTs and FAR Part 12 contracts

These requirements are addressed in Course 1: Acquisition of Innovative Solutions (AIS).

Pathway 2: FAR-Lite Acquisition

Used when requirements are defined and the agency conducts a standard commercial procurement.

• FAR-based RFQ or RFP
• Defined requirements and evaluation factors
• Commercial pricing and customary terms
• Award is a FAR Part 12 contract

Aligned with Executive Order 14271 — Ensuring Commercial, Cost-Effective Solutions in Federal Contracts

EO 14271 — Ensuring Commercial, Cost-Effective Solutions

This Executive Order reinforces the government’s obligation to:

• Increase effective use of FAR Part 12
• Prefer commercial products and services when available
• Align contract terms with customary commercial practice
• Improve acquisition efficiency and pricing outcomes

These requirements are addressed in Course 2: FAR Part 12 Commercial Acquisition.