Contract administration and management encompass the full lifecycle of a contract, from pre-solicitation planning to final closeout. Contract management refers to the overarching process that includes drafting, awarding, monitoring, and closing out contracts. Within that process, contract administration focuses specifically on post-award activities such as monitoring performance, ensuring compliance, completing final reports, processing payments, and managing surplus property at contract closeout.

For related context, review Basics of Public Procurement, the NASPO Procurement Glossary, and Procurement U's Introduction to Contract Administration course.