Which phase follows the final selection of a contractor in the acquisition process?

The phase that follows the final selection of a contractor in the acquisition process is contract administration.

Contract administration involves managing the relationship between the government agency and the contractor once a contract has been awarded. This phase is crucial as it ensures that the contractor complies with all terms, conditions, and performance metrics established in the contract. It encompasses monitoring the contractor’s progress, making necessary adjustments, and addressing any issues that arise to ensure the successful execution of the contract.

In contrast, contract negotiation takes place prior to the selection of a contractor, where the terms and conditions are discussed and agreed upon. Proposal evaluation also occurs prior to the final selection, as it involves assessing the submissions from different contractors to determine their capability and price. Contracting planning is an earlier phase that involves preparing for the acquisition strategy, market research, and defining requirements, well before any contractor is selected. Thus, these phases are distinct from contract administration and occur at different points within the acquisition process.