A flurry of rulemaking activity, recent movements on legislative vehicles, considerations in pivotal court cases, and national elections that could alter the federal landscape… 2024 is a year of considerable uncertainty. PSC’s President & CEO David Berteau will present key data and insights that can help your company navigate this potentially changeable federal marketplace. 

As the U.S. Government races to harness the potential of game-changing technologies—like artificial intelligence—it is also important to ensure fairness and security in this rapidly evolving federal marketplace. How can Government officials manage the explosive progress of AI in federal acquisitions while also providing room for its growth? How is the Government laying a solid policy foundation to guide AI development and use? How should the private sector highlight the “art of the possible” in terms of securing systems and data that support innovation for their federal customers? And what strategies is the government using to ensure the timely procurement of emerging technologies?

Collaborative, productive communications among Government procurement officials and industry partners are often stymied by misconceptions of, or old approaches to, “dos,” “don’ts,” and timelines associated with procurement practices and / or vendor relationships. What should industry engagement look like across the full acquisition lifecycle? What is required by the FAR, and what has become general practice – but isn’t necessarily required? How can the Government most effectively communicate with industry to reduce the risk of protests, and what practical activities and engagements can involve industry in better acquisition approaches? This panel will address myths regarding: common misconceptions that can unnecessarily hinder procurement flexibilities (e.g., role of market research, impact on set-aside programs or socio-economic groups); facts and examples to help overcome such misconceptions; and strategies for improving cooperation and engagement --- and by extension, acquisition outcomes.