Statement of Objectives (SOO)
A Statement of Objectives (SOO) is a government contracting document that defines the high-level goals and desired outcomes of a procurement. It focuses on what must be achieved rather than prescribing how the work must be performed, allowing contractors to propose their own technical and management approaches.
What Is a Statement of Objectives?
A Statement of Objectives (SOO) is a government contracting document that defines the high-level goals and desired outcomes of a procurement. It focuses on what must be achieved rather than prescribing how the work must be performed.
The SOO allows contractors to propose their own technical and management approaches to meet the government's objectives.
Key Characteristics
Defines overall mission goals and expected results
Avoids detailed technical instructions
Supports performance-based acquisition
Encourages contractor innovation
Used in competitive negotiated procurements
How It Works in Government Contracting
Practical example: For example, instead of specifying software architecture and coding languages, a SOO may state that the objective is to modernize a legacy system to improve processing speed, cybersecurity, and user access. Offerors then propose their own technical solution.
Where it appears: A SOO is typically included in a solicitation under negotiated acquisitions, especially when using performance-based acquisition methods.
Who uses it: Contracting officers and program managers draft the SOO. Offerors use it to develop a proposed Statement of Work or Performance Work Statement as part of their proposal.
Why it matters: Instead of dictating the solution, the government defines the problem. Contractors compete by proposing the best method to achieve the stated objectives.
Regulatory Framework
SOOs are supported under performance-based acquisition guidance in:
FAR Part 37.6 Performance-Based Acquisition
FAR Part 15 Contracting by Negotiation
Why It Matters for Contractors
Business implications: SOOs create opportunities to differentiate through innovation and technical expertise.
Compliance impact: Offerors must carefully align their proposed approach to the stated objectives and measurable outcomes.
Strategic importance: A well-crafted response can demonstrate value, efficiency, and reduced risk.
Risk considerations: Because the government does not prescribe the method, the contractor assumes responsibility for designing an effective solution.
Common Misconceptions
A SOO is less detailed than a Statement of Work.
In reality, it is detailed about outcomes rather than tasks.
The government provides technical direction.
Under a SOO, the contractor proposes the approach.
A SOO reduces accountability.
Performance metrics still apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a SOO and a Statement of Work (SOW)?
A SOO defines objectives and desired outcomes. A SOW defines specific tasks and methods.
Is a SOO the same as a Performance Work Statement (PWS)?
No. Under a SOO, the contractor typically proposes the PWS as part of its offer.
Why does the government use a SOO?
To promote innovation, flexibility, and competition in developing solutions.
How should contractors respond to a SOO?
By clearly mapping proposed solutions to each objective and including measurable performance standards.
Related Government Contracting Topics
Performance Work Statement (PWS): A document describing required outcomes and performance standards for contract work.
Statement of Work (SOW): A detailed description of tasks, deliverables, and methods required under a contract.
Performance-Based Acquisition (PBA): An acquisition strategy focused on results and measurable outcomes.
Source Selection Authority (SSA): The official who makes the final award decision in a negotiated procurement.
Request for Proposal (RFP): A formal solicitation used to obtain competitive proposals for government contracts.
Strategic Importance
Understanding the Statement of Objectives is essential for contractors participating in negotiated procurements. It shifts the focus from following instructions to delivering results, making strategy and innovation central to proposal success.
Contractors who excel at responding to SOOs demonstrate their ability to solve complex problems, differentiate their offerings, and build stronger relationships with government buyers through performance-based approaches.