The Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) issued a summary of the results of its FY14 review of Defense Department (DoD) procurement functions. The purpose of DCMA’s annual reviews is to assess the effectiveness of the contracting function, including the identification of best practices and lessons learned.
Shortcomings identified in DCMA’s Program Management Review report include:
- Insufficient documentation in contract files, contrary to instructions in FAR part 4.801.
- Over-reliance on checklists and templates, reducing necessary analysis and substance required in particular circumstances.
- Technical evaluations lacking critical analysis.
- A propensity to accept proposed prices and an aversion to negotiation.
- Lack of evidence that Contracting Officers are reviewing the actions and files of Contracting Officer’s Representatives during post-award contract administration.
- Minimal documentation supporting contract modifications.
- Misalignment of effective dates with periods of performance, funding dates, and signatures.
A copy of the DCMA’s report can be downloaded by clicking here.