Shows
Defense MavericksDecoding Agile Acquisition Frameworks with Jonathan Mostowski (Replay)Are rules the biggest barrier to government procurement?In this replay episode, Jonathan Mostowski, a trailblazer in government procurement and co-author of the TechFAR Handbook, unpacks the truth about “hacking” bureaucracy in government contracting and how agile acquisition, strategic contracting, and responsible risk-taking can transform procurement into a driver of innovation.He also shares insights on creating culture change through contracting, his experiences authoring the TechFAR Handbook, navigating the pitfalls of SBIR, and tackling the dreaded “Valley of Death”.Learn why contracting should be a business advisory role, not just compliance, and how funding...2025-03-1838 min
Fed Gov TodayTransforming Federal Acquisitions: Expiring Funds, OTA Expansion, and Protest ReformFrancis sits down with Jonathan Mostowski, president of Agile Acquisitions and former US Digital Service strategist, to discuss ideas for improving federal acquisitions. Jonathan shares three key recommendations: turning expiring funds into opportunities for innovation, expanding access to Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) for more flexible acquisitions, and reforming the protest process to reduce delays and foster better collaboration between agencies and vendors. These proposals aim to address persistent challenges in government contracting, including bridging the “valley of death” in project funding and empowering agencies with greater acquisition agility.2025-01-2813 min
Defense MavericksDecoding Agile Acquisition Frameworks with Jonathan MostowskiThis week, Ryan Connell chats with Jonathan Mostowski, author, public speaker, and president of Agile Acquisitions LLC, about the truth behind “hacking” bureaucracy in government contracting, the development and impact of agile acquisition frameworks, and his career journey from a contracting officer to an innovative leader in the field. Jonathan shares his insights into creating culture change through contracting, the importance of understanding rules and strategic risk-taking, and his experiences authoring the TechFAR handbook. Tune in for a refreshing conversation on how to look at the defense procurement process with different eyes.
TIMESTAMPS:
(1:19) Meet Jonathan
2024-09-1035 min
All Quiet on the Second Front69. Government Acquisitions with Jonathan MostowskiEpisode 69. Navigating the labyrinth of government procurement can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, host Tyler Sweatt chats with Jonathan Mostowski, president of Agile Acquisitions, LLC and seasoned expert in government acquisitions. With over two decades of experience, Jonathan has pioneered innovative procurement models and shaped the landscape of modern IT services acquisition. Dive into a discussion that demystifies the complexities of government contracts, explores the cutting-edge of procurement strategies, and examines the cultural shifts necessary to streamline governmental innovation. 2024-09-0328 min
Agile Acquisitions & AlcoholWhat is Agile Acquisitions?In this episode I discuss the difference between agile development and agile acquisitions and provide some key FAR citations to help industry and agencies be more agile. #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitionsandalcohol #myFAR.io #agileacquisitions2024-02-1505 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholGovernment ProtestsIn this episode I discuss the different types of Government protest including Agency Level, GAO, and Court of Federal Claims.
https://www.gao.gov/special.pubs/og96024.htm
https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/gao-clarifies-the-scope-of-its-2909433/2021-03-0607 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholConsumption Based Service AcquisitionsIn this episode I discuss the importance of government adoption of Consumption Based Service Acquisition models such as those proposed in the NDAA 2021 Section 834.2021-02-2604 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholCooperative Research & Development Agreements (CRADA)In this episode I discuss Cooperative Research & Development Agreements (CRADA)and the benefits to industry and the Government.2021-02-2206 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholUnderstanding Intellectual PropertyIn this episode I discuss Intellectual property as it relates to Data Rights in Government Contracts.2021-02-2205 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholFAR NerdIn this episode I talk about how to improve your understanding and utilization of the Federal Acquisition Regulations2020-11-1707 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholUnderstanding Contract TypesIn this episode I discuss the different types of contracts and contract vehicles to help users understand what might best meet their needs.
Relevant FAR Sections: https://myfar.io/parts/16
13 Simplified Acquisitions
16 Types of Contracts
16.1 Selecting Contract Types
16.2 Fixed-Price Contracts
16.3 Cost-Reimbursement Contracts
16.4 Incentive Contracts
16.5 Indefinite-Delivery Contracts
16.6 Time-and-Materials, Labor-Hour, and Letter Contracts
16.7 Agreements
35 Research & Development
2020-10-2308 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholBreaking into Government ContractsIn this episode I discuss approaches for entering the Government marketplace.
SBIR: https://www.sbir.gov/about
FAR 19.5: Set-Asides for Small Business myFAR.io
2020-10-1707 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAcquisition Principles Part 3Welcome to part 3 of the Acquisition Principles series. In this episode I discuss:
7 - Leverage the efficiency of commercial contracting methods. If and when possible, use services and tools sold by private sector vendors.
8- Choose diverse teams that have demonstrated success in developing trust, accountability, and navigating cultural barriers. Evaluate demonstrated coding skills and quality of previous delivery expertise as an indicator for future performance.
9 - Get solutions into the hands of users quickly. Incorporate accessibility, security, and usability testing into the process to avoid bottlenecks.2020-10-1704 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAcquisition Principles Part 2Welcome to part two of the Acquisition Principles for Digital Service. In this episode I will discuss: https://techfarhub.cio.gov/learning-center/principles/
4 - Don’t lock technical requirements into contracts so that new, more effective technologies and methods are not blocked.
5 - Buy design and software development services as a repeated process for the delivery of a working product. Technological enhancements never end. Determine how much of the budget to invest in finding the right solution. Only continue investing in the solution if value is demonstrated.
6 - Buy small, build small, test, and...2020-10-1705 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAcquisition Principles Part 1In this episode I cover the first three of the Acquisition Principles for Digital Service as found on the TechFARHub. Grab a drink and relax as I talk about choosing a mission that matters, paying for performance over time, and separating contractual requirements from technical...Cheers!2020-10-1705 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholDigital Service Maturity ModelIn this week's episode, I enjoy a glass of Yellowstone Bourbon and discuss how you can assess an organizations Digital Service Maturity Model, which is essential in understanding how forward leaning an acquisition can be while still being successful and from an industry perspective if the organization is going to put their agile money where their mouth is.
Digital Service Maturity Determination Use this to evaluate and correlate a requiring activities’ organizational maturity in adoption of digital service techniques to the resulting contract action https://techfarhub.cio.gov/learning-center/agile-maturity/
Acquisition Principles for Digital Services ht...2020-10-0807 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholInnovation in AppropriationIn part 3 of this 3 part series I provide some insight into some of the innovations that are taking place in DoD in this coming Fiscal Year.
1:05 "DIB SWAP Appendix B.2: Appropriations Subgroup Report" https://media.defense.gov/2019/Jan/16/2002080473/-1/-1/0/DIB_APPROPRIATIONS_SUBGROUP_REPORT_2019.01.15.PDF
1:22 Memorandum: Software Acquisition Pathway Interim Policy and Procedures https://www.acq.osd.mil/ae/assets/docs/USA002825-19%20Signed%20Memo%20(Software).pdf
2:06 Here are the pilot programs for the new Software Budget Appropriation https://acquisitiontalk.com/2020/03/here-are-the-pilot-programs-for-the-new-software-budget-appropriation/2020-10-0804 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholColor of Money Part 2: Challenges with AppropriationsIn part 2 of this three part series on Color of Money I cover some of the challenges of current appropriation law. This deep dive focuses on DoD but the challenges apply broadly.
2:02 You can learn more about operating under a continuing resolution at https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/research_reports/RR2200/RR2263/RAND_RR2263.pdf
2:42 some light reading on the execution of funds from the DoD FMR: https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/documents/fmr/Volume_14.pdf
4:06 DIB SWAP Study on Appropriations https://media.defense.gov/2019/Jan/16/2002080473/-1/-1/0/DIB_APPROPRIATIONS...2020-10-0807 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholColor of Money Part 1: Types of AppropriationsIn the first part of this 3 part series discussing color of money, I dive into the fundamentals of different types of appropriations.2020-10-0804 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAgile AcquisitionsIn part 3 of this 3 part series on Other Transaction Authority, I provide insight on how to find OTA opportunities, which agencies are using them and what consortiums you can join.2020-10-0805 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholOther Transaction Authority Part 2In part 2 of this series on Other transaction Authority (OTA), I discuss the value of using OTA as it compares with FAR based contracting.2020-10-0806 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholHistory of Other Transaction Authority Part 1In the first part of this 3 part series on Other Transaction Authority I provide a brief overview of the history of OT and how it impacted the use.2020-10-0805 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholHow Agile FailsIn this episode I discuss how agile contracts and programs fail and what to do.2020-10-0805 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholCOVID 19 Impact on Government ContractingIn this episode I discuss how COVID 19 is impacting both Government agencies and Government Contractors and provide some tips on how both can take advantage of the new policies being released.2020-10-0806 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholLow Barriers to EntryIn this episode I share a story about how I helped a company get their product in the hands of users...in the DoD; something that is far harder than it sounds. Check out this video to see how they did it.2020-10-0804 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholMarket Engagement ChallengeIn this episode I offer a challenge to Government innovators to pick up an idea that I never got to implement...who will be the first program/contracting office to implement virtual video updates for their acquisitions?2020-10-0803 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholSelling Products to DoDIn this episode I provide innovative approaches to selling “products” to the Department of Defense2020-10-0807 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAre You a Professional?In this episode I discuss the incredible importance of being a professional and what inspired me.2020-10-0805 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholOversightIn this episode I discuss the reality that we really have all the tools we need to conduct innovative acquisitions2020-10-0803 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholRisk ManagementIn this episode I discuss the risk, or better yet, the perceived risk associated with innovative SW Development2020-10-0805 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholRoot Cause AnalysisIn this episode I discuss an underlying challenge to acquisitions2020-10-0806 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholSBIRs & InnovationIn this episode I discuss the increasing trend of using SBIRs for accessing innovative companies2020-10-0805 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholShould vs ShallIn this episode I discuss the difference between should and shall in requirements documents especially in agile development requirement documents, you “should” enjoy it and I “shall” be grateful.2020-10-0804 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholTalking to the GovernmentIn this episode I discuss how industry can and should engage with the federal government throughout the acquisition lifecycle.2020-10-0803 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholLeaving the Digital ServiceIn my first post-government episode, I give my honest opinion of the Digital Service and my time in Federal Service2020-10-0805 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholDebriefs and DownselectsIn this episode I follow-on to my previous video discussing “downselect acquisitions” to provide some insights on debriefs and the importance of timing.2020-10-0804 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholDown SelectionsIn this episode I provide some useful tips on the growing trend in federal procurement around the use of down-selections.2020-10-0804 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAsk QuestionsIn this episode, I discuss the three most important questions a business advisor should ask when building an acquisition strategy2020-10-0803 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholGovernment Cost EstimatingIn this episode I breakdown the IGCE or Independent Government Cost Estimation; what it is, how it is historically done, how it should be done for agile, and what it means for industry.2020-10-0807 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholCommercial ContractingIn this episode I unpack Commercial Contracting in the Federal Government; what it is, how to use it, and what it means to you. Check out the new video format with editing support from Alex Romero; he may have even slipped in a little drinking game if you care to play along.2020-10-0807 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholScalable AgileIn this episode I discuss the how and why of scaling Agile programs2020-10-0806 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAgile ServicesIn this episode I break down the three categories of agile services: Coaching, Training, & Delivery2020-10-0806 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholLegacy to Agile TransitionsIn this episode I describe how you can transition a legacy program to an agile program2020-10-0807 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholGovernment ShutdownIn this week's episode I discuss the impacts of the Government Shutdown on contracts and contractors.2020-10-0804 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholNon-Traditional ContractorsIn this episode I head to Baltimore, MD to talk with Fearless President, Delali Dzirasa about what it means to be a modern tech vendor in the federal marketplace.2020-10-0804 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholHow to Fix ContractsIn this week's episode I discuss how we can really fix government contracting.2020-10-0807 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholContract StructureIn this episode I review Ole Smokey Tennessee Whiskey Mango Habanero Whiskey and respond to Mark Ginise's question regarding contract structures and CLIN length.2020-10-0808 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAcquiring User ExperienceIn this episode I respond to a viewers request to discuss how you contract for User Experience2020-10-0806 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAgile IncentivesIn this episode, I respond to a viewer's question regarding the use of Agile Incentives and introduce a new segment, answering the question, "what's he drinking?"2020-10-0809 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholTalking to Contracting OfficersIn this episode I talk about how and when Industry can interact with Government Officials2020-10-0806 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholContract DeliverablesIn this episode I talk about Contract Deliverable Requirement Lists (CDRL's) which we should keep, which we should add, and which we should get rid of all together.2020-10-0810 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholNew Fiscal YearIn this episode I provide 3 trends I see in the new fiscal year, and provide tips for Agencies and Industry to take advantage of them2020-10-0807 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholRequirement DocumentsIn this episode I explain the difference between a SOO, SOW, & PWS2020-10-0806 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAgile Program ManagementIn this episode I provide 6 unique characteristics of agile program management2020-10-0806 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAcquisition TimelineIn this episode I breakdown the acquisition timeline to answer the age old question, "why does it take so long?"2020-10-0808 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAgile MethodologyIn this episode it is back to the fundamentals, where I breakdown 6 key factors to the Agile Development Methodology.2020-10-0805 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholHealthy HabitsIn this episode I talk about how just one thing a day can make a difference; keep innovating keep pushing!2020-10-0803 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholLittle “i” in InnovationIn this episode I discuss the importance of small wins in culture change and how, in some ways they may be more important the big wins.2020-10-0803 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholEarned Value ManagementIn this episode I discuss the use of EVM in Agile2020-10-0804 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholHack The PlanetIn this episode I dig deep into real hacks in making acquisitions work. Grab a drink, this gets real.2020-10-0810 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholEnd of Fiscal YearIn this episode I respond to a follower’s request to discuss the end of fiscal year and how agencies and industry can respond to use the remaining budgets affectively.2020-10-0807 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAcquisitions, Protests, & TransitionsResponding to a viewers request to discuss the acquisition cycle and risks associated with it2020-10-0807 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholCivic ActionsInterview with Civic Actions Co-Founder Aaron Pava2020-10-0709 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholGAO & OTA’sIn this episode I discuss the implications of the recent GAO ruling on Other Transactions.
#agileacquisitions #themoreyouknow #government contracting
#agileacquisitionsandalcohol2020-10-0706 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholFAR BreakdownIn this episode I take a coffee break, and breakdown rule number two of Innovation: Knowing the Rules” as I talk about the key sections of the Federal Acquisition Regulations. Check out myFAR.io on your computer or mobile device to review the sections in more details or to ask questions. #agileacquisitions #themoreyouknow2020-09-2311 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholStanding OutIn this episode I respond to a viewer’s question on how a company can stand out when proposing their unique agile development process. #agileacquisitionsandalcohol #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitions2020-09-2306 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholRequest for InformationIn this episode I unpack the ever present RFI; where does it come from and what is really required. #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitions #agileacquisitionsandalcohol #myfar.io2020-09-2307 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholWhat is Agile Acquisitions?In this episode I discuss the difference between agile development and agile acquisitions and provide some key FAR citations to help industry and agencies be more agile. #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitionsandalcohol #myFAR.io #agileacquisitions2020-09-2306 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholmyFAR; Making the FAR FunctionalIn this episode I provide an introductory overview of the new myFAR tool, which makes using the FAR easier and accessible. #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitions2020-09-2308 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholStreamlining AcquisitionsIn this episode I discuss getting acquisitions in shape for end of fiscal year. Find tips for making your acquisition more efficient by taking advantage of down-selection and self-scoring. #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitions #agileacquisitionsandalcohol2020-09-2304 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAgile is ChangeIn this video I discuss how agile accommodates change and contract types to support it.2020-09-2303 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholFederal Acquisition RegulationsIn this video I discuss the importance of the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and announce the launch of myFAR.io Check out myFAR.io to learn more If you want to contribute to the videos visit patreon.com/agileacq #agileacquisitionsandalcohol #themoreyouknow #myFAR2020-09-2303 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholCode ChallengesIn this episode I discuss how to successfully execute Code Challenges as part of a source selection. You can support these videos by making a contribution at https://www.patreon.com/agileacq #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitionsandalcohol2020-09-2309 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAccessing the Federal GovernmentIn this episode I discuss what to do and more importantly what to do when trying to sell to the Federal Government.2020-09-2305 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholGratuitous SoftwareIn this episode I discuss the use of free trial software by the federal government and the implications; when and why is it OK for the government to use “gratuitous software” #AgileAcquisitionsAndAlcohol #TheMoreYouKnow2020-09-2305 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholGovernment ShutdownIn this episode I discuss the implications of the looming government shut down #themoreyouknow #agileacquisitionsandalcohol2020-09-2304 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholContracting JujitsuAn introductory comparison between the first three foundational principles of Small Circle Jujitsu and the art of contracting2020-09-2307 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholCommunicationIn this episode I discuss the importance of open communication in the acquisition process and offer a few suggestions2020-09-2304 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholBuild vs. BuyIn this episode I discuss the age old acquisition question every agency faces whether they should build custom sw solutions or buy an existing COTS solution2020-09-2303 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholWired AcquisitionsIn this episode I discuss the perception that GovernmentAcquisitions are “wired” for a specific vendor2020-09-2304 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholMVP vs Legacy ReplacementIn this episode I discuss how to explain to stakeholders the difference between MVPs and Legacy replacement2020-09-2303 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholOther Transaction AuthorityIn this weeks episode I discuss Other Transaction Authority (OTA); what it is, and why it matters.2020-09-2304 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAgile Development as a ServiceIn this episode I discuss a new perspective on how to view agile development for the purposes if Contracting2020-09-2304 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholModular vs. Short ContractsDiscussing the differences between modular contracts and short contracts as they affect vendor staffing2020-09-2303 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholWho's Who in Acquisitions?In this episode I discuss the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders in acquisitions2020-09-2204 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholAgile Acquisitions & Culture ChangeA video Blog discussing culture change around acquiring and selling IT in the Federal Government Ecosystem2020-09-2203 minAgile Acquisitions & AlcoholWhat is an Agile Coach?This episode discusses the use of Agile Coaches in agencies adopting Agile2020-09-2205 min
Agile Acquisitions & AlcoholWhy You Don’t Need EVMA discussion on the use of Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS) for Agile Development2020-09-2206 min
Agile Acquisitions & AlcoholWhy Agile?This is the audio recording for the initial Agile Acquisitions V-blog describing why agile and iterative development is so important to the Federal Government2020-09-2208 min