CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION & RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT
Contract Administration is the essence of Supplier Management, but also is an integral part of overall project management. The Federal Acquisition Regulation discusses contract administration in FAR Part 42. FAR 42.301 lists 70 odd functions that the government identifies as being part of contract administration.
Key Elements to Consider:
After Award, Conduct Pre-performance Conference. Discuss:
Contract Administration includes such diverse functions as:
Performance Oversight-
Monitoring Progress (CPM, Gantt Charts, Reports, Inspection)
Surveillance (discussed in the lecture on Quality)
Delivery (expediting)
Documenting History - Supplier Evaluation
Supplier Motivation
Punishment (or Disincentives)
Rewards (or Incentives)
Assistance
Training (on your ways of doing things)
Quality audits and procurement system reviews
Problem solving and mutual resolution
Processing Payments
Review (invoices, costs, services/deliverables provided)
Verify/validate progress
Approve and disperse
Administer Change Orders and Modifications
Initiate
Review
Negotiate
Incorporate into contract
Transition between contractors
Disputes Resolution (formal, informal, ADR)
Termination/Partial Termination
For convenience
For default
Contract Close-out including recoupment of property, final payment, deobligation, after action reports, documenting contractor performance
Staffing for Contract Management:
Oversight and Quality Assurance (QAR, COTR)
Administrative Contracting Officer
Expediter
Termination Contracting Officer
Cost Price Specialists
Auditors
(Students: Research and Discuss how their organizations administer contracts and look into the duties of the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and its role in supporting this function for other organizations.)
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CASES:
Hardy
LINK TO DISCUSSION OF PURCHASING ORGANIZATIONS