Overview
This section establishes the general framework for Determinations and Findings (D&Fs), providing the universal policies and procedures for their implementation. It serves as the foundational guidance for these written justifications across all federal acquisition activities.
Key Rules
- General Application: Subpart 1.7 governs the broad administrative requirements, formats, and procedures for using D&Fs.
- Decentralized Specifics: While the general rules are found here, the specific criteria and triggers for individual D&Fs are located within the FAR parts associated with their specific subject matter (e.g., FAR Part 6 for competition or FAR Part 17 for special contracting methods).
Practical Implications
- Contracting officers must refer to this subpart for the standard "how-to" of D&F preparation while simultaneously referencing specific FAR sections for the "what" and "why" required for a particular procurement action.
- It ensures a standardized method for documenting administrative decisions, making the rationale for specific contracting actions legally defensible and consistent across agencies.