A federal acquisition approach that defines contract requirements in terms of measurable performance outcomes instead of prescribing the specific processes or methods the contractor must use. Performance-Based Acquisition (PBA) emphasizes clearly defined objectives, measurable performance standards, quality assurance methods, and appropriate incentives that reward successful performance. PBA typically uses a Performance Work Statement (PWS) or Statement of Objectives (SOO) to describe the government’s desired results, allowing contractors greater flexibility to propose innovative and cost-effective solutions while remaining accountable for meeting established performance requirements.
Performance-Based Acquisition (PBA)
A federal acquisition approach defining requirements as measurable outcomes rather than prescribed methods, using a PWS or SOO.
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Related Glossary Terms
The official compilation of permanent U.S. federal laws, providing the statutory basis for many contracting requirements.
A global classification system used to categorize products and services for procurement and spend analysis.
A unique 12-character identifier assigned via SAM.gov to organizations doing business with the federal government, replacing the DUNS number.
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