Auditors recommended that acquisition executives for the Navy, Air Force, and Defense Information Systems Agency require contracting officers conducting direct acquisitions for amounts greater than the simplified acquisition threshold to determine whether the use of non-DoD contracts is justifiable, as well as verify that the required goods, supplies, or services cannot be obtained as conveniently or economically by using a DoD contract.
They also said contracting officials should document those conclusions in writing — and called on acquisition executives to develop a training course to instruct contracting and program personnel on proper acquisition planning and contract administration for assisted acquisitions — and that it emphasize the bona fide needs rule and appropriations law.
The auditors further recommended that the undersecretary of Defense for acquisition technology and logistics issue a memorandum to all DoD contracting offices to reemphasize the need for contracting officials to adhere to competition and documentation requirements for multiple-award contracts; require contracting officers using the NASA workstation procurement contracts to take free training provided by NASA; and, require contracting officers to use NASA’s online tool for these contracts when requesting quotes because it helps ensure fair opportunity.
