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section37.504

Contracting officials’ responsibilities

Overview

This section mandates that contracting officials utilize "best practices" throughout the entire lifecycle of service acquisitions, from initial procurement through contract management and administration.

Key Rules

  • Adoption of Best Practices: Contracting officials are responsible for ensuring that proven, effective techniques are integrated into service contracting processes.
  • Lifecycle Coverage: The responsibility extends beyond the award phase to include active contract management and day-to-day administration.
  • Policy Alignment: Actions must align with OFPP Policy Letter 93-1, which provides the framework for management oversight of service contracting.

Practical Implications

  • Contracting officers must move beyond basic compliance and actively seek efficient, performance-based strategies to ensure the government receives high-quality service outcomes.
  • This rule serves as a regulatory basis for requiring rigorous oversight and the use of modern management tools during the performance period of a service contract.

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