# FPM 511: Managing IT Projects Course

Canonical URL: <https://www.graduateschool.edu/courses/fpm-511-managing-it-projects-course>

## Overview

This course equips federal program and project managers with the knowledge and tools to effectively manage IT projects and programs within the federal acquisition environment. Participants learn to apply modern, modular acquisition strategies that align technology investments with agency missions, while adapting to rapid technological change. The course emphasizes integrating Agile methods, process re-engineering, and systems integration to improve IT project delivery and organizational performance.

Learners also focus on performance measurement, risk management, and compliance with key federal IT mandates such as the Clinger-Cohen Act and FITARA. By course completion, participants will be able to plan, lead, and evaluate complex IT initiatives that balance innovation, accountability, and mission impact in alignment with FAC-P/PM IT Core-Plus standards.

## What you'll learn

- Describe the purpose, structure, and regulatory foundation of Simplified Acquisition Procedures within the federal acquisition framework.
- Apply acquisition planning principles to procurements conducted below the Simplified Acquisition Threshold.
- Identify required sources of supply and service and apply applicable competition and fair opportunity requirements.
- Evaluate small business program options and incorporate socioeconomic preference requirements into simplified acquisition decisions.
- Prepare and issue requests for quotations using solicitation methods appropriate to the procurement.
- Assess vendor quotations and produce compliant award documentation in accordance with federal procurement regulations.
- Demonstrate knowledge of government purchase card use, micro-purchase thresholds, and associated internal control responsibilities.
- Apply contract administration practices and post-award requirements to simplified acquisition awards.
- Integrate ethical standards, compliance obligations, and documentation requirements into all phases of the simplified acquisition process.

## Curriculum

#### Module 1: Introduction to Simplified Acquisition Procedures

- Describe the purpose and scope of Simplified Acquisition Procedures within the broader federal acquisition framework.
- Identify the regulatory basis for simplified acquisitions as established in FAR Part 13.
- Distinguish between micro-purchases, simplified acquisitions, and other available contracting methods.
- Recognize how simplified acquisition methods promote efficiency, transparency, and competition in federal procurement.

#### Module 2: Planning Simplified Acquisitions

- Apply acquisition planning principles to procurements falling below the Simplified Acquisition Threshold.
- Identify key requirements development factors that shape an effective acquisition strategy.
- Explain the role of market research in informing simplified acquisition planning decisions.
- Outline documentation standards that support a well-founded acquisition plan.

#### Module 3: Required Sources and Competition Requirements

- Identify and prioritize required sources of supply and service in accordance with FAR Part 8.
- Apply competition requirements and fair opportunity principles relevant to simplified acquisitions.
- Assess whether commercial products or commercial services can fulfill the stated requirement.
- Demonstrate compliance with competition standards when soliciting quotations from prospective vendors.

#### Module 4: Small Business and Socioeconomic Considerations

- Identify small business program requirements applicable to procurements under simplified acquisition procedures.
- Evaluate set-aside options and preference programs available for qualifying acquisitions.
- Incorporate socioeconomic, labor, and environmental considerations into simplified acquisition decision-making.
- Determine the order of priority among applicable small business programs during acquisition planning.

#### Module 5: Solicitation Methods and Requesting Quotations

- Select appropriate solicitation methods for procurements conducted under Simplified Acquisition Procedures.
- Distinguish between a quotation and an offer and explain the legal significance of each.
- Prepare clear, complete, and requirement-appropriate requests for quotations.
- Apply documentation standards associated with the solicitation phase of simplified acquisitions.

#### Module 6: Evaluating Quotations and Making Award Decisions

- Apply evaluation techniques appropriate to the scale and nature of simplified acquisitions.
- Weigh price and non-price factors in accordance with applicable evaluation criteria.
- Prepare compliant documentation of evaluation findings and award determinations.
- Differentiate simplified acquisition awards from formal negotiated procurements and sealed bidding.

#### Module 7: Purchase Cards and Micro-Purchase Procedures

- Describe the authorized use of government purchase cards in the simplified acquisition environment.
- Apply micro-purchase threshold guidance and associated regulatory policies.
- Identify internal control requirements governing government purchase card use.
- Recognize cardholder responsibilities and accountability standards for purchase card transactions.

#### Module 8: Contract Administration in Simplified Acquisitions

- Identify the contract administration responsibilities that accompany simplified acquisition awards.
- Recognize common post-award issues encountered in the simplified acquisition environment.
- Maintain documentation that supports transparent and accountable contract administration.
- Apply sound acquisition judgment when addressing post-award discrepancies or concerns.

#### Module 9: Ethics, Compliance, and Documentation

- Recognize ethical obligations and conflicts of interest relevant to simplified acquisition decisions.
- Apply documentation practices that promote transparency, accountability, and audit readiness.
- Use regulatory guidance to address compliance questions that arise during simplified acquisitions.
- Identify common integrity risks and oversight expectations associated with simplified procurement activity.

## Schedule
- Dec 1, 2026 – Dec 4, 2026 — Live Online

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $2569