When should the COR work with the Contracting Officer?

The COR should work with the Contracting Officer when identifying a need to change the current contract. This collaboration is crucial because any changes to a contract—whether they involve modifications to the scope, price, or terms—must be made in accordance with applicable regulations and procedures. The Contracting Officer has the authority to make contractual changes, and the COR's input can provide valuable insights regarding the contractor's performance and the implications of the proposed changes. The COR's role in this process is to ensure that any modifications are justified, align with the program's needs, and comply with performance standards.

Working with the Contracting Officer during contract modifications helps maintain effective contract management and ensures that changes are documented properly to prevent any potential disputes. This partnership is vital for ensuring that both parties understand the necessity and impact of a contract change, leading to better outcomes for project execution.

While reviewing contractor performance, evaluating contract proposals, or preparing for contract closeout are essential functions of the COR, these activities do not necessitate the same level of immediate collaboration with the Contracting Officer as does identifying the need for contract changes. Each of these other tasks focuses more on assessment and reporting rather than on initiating formal changes to the contract.