What does IDIQ stand for in contracting terminology?

In contracting terminology, IDIQ stands for "Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity." This type of contract provides for an indefinite quantity of supplies or services during a fixed period of time. Essentially, it allows agencies to streamline the procurement process by not specifying the exact number or timing of orders at the onset of the contract. Instead, the government can issue task or delivery orders as needs arise, providing flexibility to address varying demands without the need for a separate competitive procurement for each requirement.

This contractual vehicle is particularly advantageous when the exact quantities of supplies or services are not known at the time of the contract award, allowing for responsiveness to changing needs over the life of the contract. The IDIQ format is commonly seen in government contracting, especially for services such as construction, research and development, and information technology support, where requirements can evolve over time.