Overview
This section prescribes the use of FAR clause 52.236-15, which requires contractors to submit a progress schedule to ensure the timely completion of fixed-price construction projects.
Key Rules
- Primary Applicability: The clause is generally mandatory for fixed-price construction contracts that exceed the simplified acquisition threshold and have a performance period of more than 60 days.
- Discretionary Use: Contracting officers may include the clause for work lasting less than 60 days if "unusual situations" warrant strict progress monitoring.
- Exclusivity: This clause should not be used if the contract already includes other clauses or management approaches (such as complex Network Analysis Schedules or Earned Value Management Systems) designed to track progress.
Practical Implications
- Performance Benchmarking: This section provides the government with a formal mechanism to track a contractor's progress and justifies potential intervention if the contractor falls behind the approved schedule.
- Administrative Streamlining: By prohibiting overlapping management clauses, the rule prevents redundant reporting requirements and conflicting progress-tracking standards.