Contracts Decoded Series Part 1 | The Foundation of Every Deal: Contract Basics & Understanding Agreements

Date: April 21, 2026
Time: 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Location: Virtual
Register Here

This introductory session provides a comprehensive overview of the legal elements that constitute a binding agreement. Participants will gain foundational knowledge regarding contract formation and the specific types of agreements most frequently utilized within the public procurement space.

In this session, we’ll cover:

  • The Legal Lifecycle: Understanding offer, acceptance, and consideration.
  • Informal Obligations: Why emails, quotes, and verbal agreements can inadvertently become binding contracts.
  • Signatory Authority: Delegated authority vs. unauthorized agreements and the implications for personal and institutional liability.
  • Institutional Instruments: Distinguishing between MOUs, SaaS agreements, Professional Services, and Facility Use agreements.
  • Essential Contractual Components: Navigating the “Four Pillars” of a contract: Scope of Work, Payment Terms, Contract Term (duration), and Performance Milestones.

To ensure we cover your top priorities across the series during the presentations and Q&As, please submit any questions you have using the form here. This helps us streamline the sessions and manage our time effectively.

About the Contracts Decoded Series

Navigating vendor agreements and service contracts requires a strategic understanding of legal terminology and risk mitigation. This four-part training series, designed by the CollegeBuys Professional Development Workgroup, is designed to empower California public procurement professionals with the knowledge to evaluate, negotiate, and manage agreements effectively.

While this series does not replace formal legal counsel, it establishes a vital framework for ensuring institutional agreements remain robust. Participants will gain the tactical tools necessary to safeguard their agencies, maintain strict compliance with public procurement mandates, and proactively minimize organizational liability.

Gain Invaluable Knowledge Across Four Webinars:

Part 1 | The Foundation of Every Deal: Contract Basics & Understanding Agreements (April 21 | 2:00-3:30PM)

  • Establish a professional foundation by mastering the mechanics of contract formation, signatory authority, and the diverse types of legal instruments utilized within the public procurement landscape.

Part 2 | Spotting the Red Flags: High-Risk Contract Clauses (May 5 | 2:00-3:30PM)

  • Develop the analytical skills necessary to identify and mitigate “red flag” provisions—such as indemnification and liability caps—that can expose your agency to significant legal and financial vulnerability.

Part 3 | Advocating for Institutional Interest: Negotiating Contract Language (May 19 | 2:00-3:30PM)

  • Learn practical, strategic techniques to advocate for your institution’s interests, effectively addressing vendor pushback while maintaining compliance and protecting taxpayer resources.

Part 4 | Beyond the Signature: Contract Management & Best Practices (June 2 |2:00-3:30PM)

  • Master the post-execution phase of the contract lifecycle by implementing rigorous oversight protocols to ensure vendor performance, prevent scope creep, and maintain audit-ready documentation.