In this basic chapter, all the methods, frameworks, and techniques used are briefly described to make it easier for newcomers to orientate themselves and get started. To this end, central principles from the context of IT sourcing, tendering, transition, and the operation of IT services are presented. Not all of these basics are necessary to develop an understanding of Adaptive Services, but all of the techniques and basic principles presented serve as orientation. This chapter can therefore be read right at the beginning to build up basic knowledge, but can also be consulted again and again as a reference work.