What is a critical focus during post-award conferences?

The critical focus during post-award conferences is on addressing performance expectations. This is an essential aspect of ensuring that all parties involved have a clear understanding of their responsibilities and the standards expected for successful contract fulfillment. During this phase, discussions typically revolve around specific expectations regarding deliverables, timelines, quality standards, and other performance metrics. Establishing these parameters helps prevent misunderstandings and promotes accountability throughout the contract term.

While aspects like minimizing costs and reviewing contract terms are important in the broader context of contract management, the primary goal of the post-award conference is to set the tone for performance and compliance. Evaluating the contractor's history, although valuable for understanding past performance, becomes less relevant once the contract has been awarded. The main focus shifts to how the newly established relationship and contract will function going forward, highlighting why addressing performance expectations takes precedence in this setting.