Applying Continuous Process Improvement to the Contract Closeout Process

The purpose of this study is to streamline the contract closeout process through the application of continuous process improvement techniques. A methodology for the identification of procedures involved in the process and problem areas in the process was developed. Available literature was reviewed and personal interviews were conducted to develop a model of the contract closeout process and to identify problems in the contract closeout process. Continuous Process Improvement procedures were applied to the contract model and the problems identified to eliminate the problems and increase the efficiency of the process. Recommendations included: increasing the priority placed on the close out of U. S. Government contracts, development of an automated system for the close out of U. S. Government contracts, development of a training program in the contract closeout process, improvement of communications between organizations involved in the contract closeout process, and application of continuous process improvement procedures to reduce the time required to close out U. S. Government contracts. Streamlining the contract closeout process.