Potential feasibility of contractor self-oversight in the self-reporting of delivery delays

Abstract

With dwindling personnel resources, there is growing concern over contract management policies within the DoD as well as questions as to how to improve contract management efficiency. Defense Contract Management Command (DCMC) is responsible for performing the majority of contract administration services once a contract has been awarded. Contract delivery surveillance is an extremely important tool in monitoring production of an end item and notifying customers of potential delivery delays. Unfortunately, DCMC personnel available to perform contract delivery surveillance have not increased proportionately to the contract work load. This study examines the feasibility of contractor self-oversight and self-reporting of delivery delays. DCMC's current contract delivery surveillance practices and procedures are presented and analyzed for effectiveness in notifying the customer of delays. Two case studies on contractor delay self-forecasting are also analyzed. The study reveals that there is potential for successful contractor self-oversight and reporting of delays. As more data becomes available, a cost benefit analysis of contractor self-oversight and reporting is recommended.