A Quest for Efficiencies: Total System Performance Responsibility

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The role of the contracting officer (CO) in the acquisition process is significant because it is solely this individual who has the ability to enter into, administer, or terminate contracts. Key in the CO’s mind is safeguarding the interests of the United States as referenced in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 1.602-2. One way of safeguarding those interests is ensuring a sound business strategy is reached prior to release of the program’s RFP. One business strategy a CO may pursue is Total System Performance Responsibility (TSPR). Essentially, TSPR fosters an environment for the government and contractor team to gain efficiencies by identifying redundant and/or unnecessary practices, eliminating those practices, and using commercial practices to replace or enhance the acquisition process. TSPR dictates the government take a step back and give the contractor greater freedom to be innovative in its management practices without the traditional level of government oversight.