Federal Contracting Acronym
SOO
Statement of Objectives
Plain-English definition
A Statement of Objectives states high-level goals and outcomes, often used when the government wants industry to propose the best solution approach. SOOs may be converted into a PWS or SOW during source selection or at award.
Why it matters
SOO-led procurements require stronger solution architecture in proposals because methods are not fully prescribed.
Where you will see it
Performance-based service RFPs, Section C attachments, and source-selection plans where the government wants industry innovation.
Example in context
An agency issues an SOO for a digital modernization effort; offerors propose technical approaches in the management volume without a prescriptive task list.