Properly trained CORs must complete their nomination in Contracting Officer Representative Tracking (CORT) and forward it to their supervisor for approval prior to award of a contract.

Acquisition Strategy Plans (ASPs) are required for all services greater than $150K, Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs), and Indefinite Delivery Contracts (IDC).

"Acquisition planning" means the process by which the efforts of all personnel responsible for an acquisition are coordinated and integrated through a comprehensive plan for fulfilling the agency need in a timely manner and at a reasonable cost. It includes developing the overall strategy for managing the acquisition.

If the contractor needs to access the network, the contract requires an approved DD Form 254 - Contract Security Classification Specification. The DD254 advises contractors on the proper procedures to handle classified material received or generated under a classified contract. It identifies which security classification to use, who has oversight, and where.

Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 require federal agencies to make their electronic and information technology accessible to people with disabilities.

A Justification and Approval (J&A) is required if you plan to award a contract without providing for full and open competition. There are several templates for J&As depending on the type of procurement. Consult the Contracting Office if you require assistance in selecting the appropriate J&A format.

Full and open competition, when used with respect to a contract action, means that all responsible sources are permitted to compete. Small Business set-asides fall under a category called "Full and Open Competition After Exclusion of Sources" and are competitive acquisition strategies.

Submit to the Contracting Office a description of the requirement (Performance Work Statement (PWS) for services to include a Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) and Inherently Governmental Function Certificate (IGFC)) or a product description (for supplies). Also, prepare an Independent Government Cost Estimate (IGCE), a Source Selection Plan (SSP), and a Technical Evaluation Plan (TEP) if applicable. Other documents may be required - contact the Contracting Office for further guidance.

Market research involves collecting and analyzing information about capabilities in the market to satisfy agency needs. Market research is required by 10 U.S.C. 2305(a)(1)(A)(ii) and U.S.C. 253a(a)(1)(B).