OMB Circular No. A-109

Overview
OMB Circular No. A-109, Major System Acquisitions governs the acquisition by executive branch agencies of major systems, including major information technology systems. Major system acquisition programs are those that:


 * Are directed at and critical to fulfilling an agency mission,
 * Entail the allocation of relatively large resources,
 * Warrant special management attention, or
 * Are so designated by agencies.

There are a number of features that characterize an A-109 acquisition. For example:


 * Major systems requirements are based on mission needs.
 * A management structure is developed to support the procurement.
 * The acquisition is managed throughout its life cycle.
 * Key decision points are planned and scheduled.
 * Specifications are performance- or functional-based.
 * Competitors are encouraged to bid innovative alternative solutions.
 * Competing alternative solutions are funded by the Government for demonstration before the final selection is made.

It is this last characteristic &mdash; funding demonstrations for competitive evaluation and selection &mdash; that became the hallmark of an A-109 procurement. The other characteristics of A-109 acquisitions are, in general, typical of many of today’s acquisitions.