CON 3990 Exam Questions With Complete Solutions Graded A+

CON 3990 Exam Questions and Complete Solutions Graded A+ FAR Part 1 - Answer: Federal Acquisition Regulation System FAR Part 2 - Answer: Definitions of Words and Terms FAR Part 3 - Answer: Improper Business Practices & Personal Conflicts of Interest FAR Part 4 - Answer: Administrative Matters FAR Part 5 - Answer: Publicizing Contract Actions FAR Part 6 - Answer: Competitive Requirements FAR Part 7 - Answer: Acquisition Planning FAR Part 8 - Answer: Required Sources of Supplies and Service FAR Part 10 - Answer: Market Research FAR Part 12 - Answer: Acquisition of Commercial Items FAR Part 13 - Answer: Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP) FAR Part 15 - Answer: Contract by Negotiation FAR Part 16 - Answer: Types of Contracts FAR Part 19 - Answer: Small Business Programs FAR Part 31 - Answer: Contract Cost Principles & Procedures FAR Part 33 - Answer: Protests, Disputes, and Appeals FAR Part 42 - Answer: Contract Administration & Audit Services FAR Part 44 - Answer: Subcontracting Policies & Procedures FAR Part 46 - Answer: Quality Assurance FAR Part 49 - Answer: Termination of Contracts FAR Part 50 - Answer: Extraordinary contractual actions and safety act FAR Part 51 - Answer: Use of Government Sources by Contractors FAR Part 52 - Answer: Solicitation Provisions and Contract Clauses FAR Part 53 - Answer: FORMS Contracting Life Cycle Phases - Answer: 1. Pre-Award 2. Award 3. Post Award Communication and Decision Making Bias - Answer: 1. Minimize influence of Personal biases 2. Maximize the likelihood of a successful result. 3. Facilitate communication among affected parties. Minimize the Effect of Personal Biases - Answer: The contracting professional should strive to minimize the influence of personal biases. Maximize the likelihood of Successful Results - Answer: 1. AR 1.102-4(e) states that contracting officers "should take the lead in encouraging business process innovations and ensuring that business decisions are sound." Facilitate Communications Among Affected Parties - Answer: 1. Effective communication minimizes the effect of personal biases, maximizes the likelihood of successful results, and facilitates communications among affected stakeholders. Cost, quality and timeliness of products and services - Answer: 1. FAR 1.102-2(a) tells contracting professionals that a guiding principle is to satisfy customers in terms of cost, quality, and timeliness of the delivered product or service. Contracting Officer Representative (COR) - Answer: 1. FAR 1.602-2(d)(7) states that contracting officers shall designate CORs in writing and furnish copies to the contractor and the contract administration office Standards of conduct - Answer: 1. FAR 3.101-1 tells us Government business shall be conducted in a manner above reproach and, except as authorized by statute or regulation, with complete impartiality and with preferential treatment for none. Methods of disseminating information - Answer: 1. For proposed contract actions expected to exceed $25,000, by synopsizing in theGovernment-wide Point of Entry (GPE).For proposed contract actions expected to exceed $15,000, but not expected to exceed$25,000. by displaying in a public place. Justification and Approval (J&A) - Answer: 2.FAR 6.303-1(a) states a contracting officer shall not commence negotiations for a sole source contract,commence negotiations for a contract resulting from an unsolicited proposal, or award any othercontract without providing for full and open competition unless the contracting officer- I. Justifies, if required in FAR 6.302, the use of such actions in writing; II. Certifies the accuracy and completeness of the justification; III. (and) Obtains the approval required by FAR 6.304. Post award orientation: - Answer: 1. FAR 42.501(a) states a post award orientation aids both Government and contractor personnel to (1) achieve a clear and mutual understanding of all contract requirements, and (2) identify and resolve potential problems. However, it is not a substitute for the contractor's fully understanding the work requirements at the time offers are submitted, nor is it to be used to alter the final agreement arrived at in any negotiations leading to contract award. Standards of Conduct: - Answer: 1. (FAR 3.101-1). Transactions relating to the expenditure of public funds require the highest degree of public trust and an impeccable standard of conduct. The general rule is to avoid strictly any conflict of interest, or even the appearance of a conflict of interest in government-contractor relationships. Solicitation and Acceptance of Gratuities by Government Personnel - Answer: The overarching rule on accepting gifts from contractor/employees is at (FAR 3.101-2). You may not solicit gifts from anyone, for any reason. This means for yourself or for others. Federal employees are prohibited from soliciting or accepting gifts. Disclosures - Answer: No person or other entity may disclose contractor bid or proposal information or source selection information to any person other than a person authorized, in accordance with applicable agency regulations or procedures, by the agency head or the contracting officer. Contracts with Government Employees: - Answer: A contracting officer shall not knowingly award a contract to a Government employee or to a business concern or other organization owned or substantially owned or controlled by one or more Government employees (FAR 3.601). Personal Conflicts of interest: - Answer: FAR part 3 covers polices and procedures related to avoiding improper business practices and personal conflicts of interest. A "personal conflict of interest" is a situation where an individual is employed by a defense contractor company and is in a position to materially influence DOD's recommendations and/or decisions and, because of his/her personal activities, relationships, or financial interests, may lack or appear to lack objectivity, or appear to be unduly influenced by personal financial interest. Organizational Conflicts of interest: - Answer: An OCI is the existence of a set of circumstances in which a contractor may be unable to render impartial advice to the government, or might have impaired objectivity in performing contracted work, or may obtain an unfair competitive advantage in the marketplace when competing for government work where that unfair advantage is obtained performing a government contract. There are three broad categories of Organizational Conflicts of interest OCI: - Answer: 1. Unequal Access 2. Impaired Objectivity 3. Biased Ground Rules Three basic approaches available to contractors and the Agency for dealing with OCI issues, as follows: - Answer: 1. Avoid - Prevent the occurrence of an actual or potential OCI through actions such as excluding sources from competition or eliminating a segment of work from a contract or task. 2. Neutralize - Negate, through a specific action, potential or actual OCI related to either a contractor's objectivity during contract performance, or unfair competitive advantage. Specific actions could include encouraging and facilitating support contractor recusal, excluding or severely limiting support contractor participation in source selection activities, and/or otherwise barring access to competition sensitive data. 3. Mitigate - Reduce or alleviate the impact of unavoidable OCIs to an acceptable level of risk so that the government's interests with regard to fair competition and contract performance are not prejudiced. This is facilitated in developing an OCI mitigation plan (DFARS 209.571-4). Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct: - Answer: 1. Per FAR 3.1002, Government contractors must conduct themselves with the highest degree of integrity and honesty. Contractors should have a written code of business ethics and conduct. Facilities and Capital Cost of Money Form - Answer: DD1861 Weighted Guidelines Form - Answer: DD FORM 1547 Abstract of Offers Form - Answer: SF1409 On the spot/over the counter Form - Answer: SF 44 Contract Security Specs Form - Answer: DD254 Contract Modifications Form - Answer: SF30 Construction Form - Answer: SF 1442 Negotiated Contracts Form - Answer: Simplified Acquisitions Form - Answer: Sealed Bid Form - Answer: Commercial Acquisition Form - Answer: SF 1449 Treatment of contractors must be: - Answer: FAR 1.62-2(d)(7) Impartial Fair Equitable Methods of disseminating information: - Answer: FAR 5.101 Publishing synopsis in a public place above 15K and in the government point of entry above 25k. Contract Files: - Answer: FAR subpart 4.8 Tells the story of the contract and is filed in the national archives upon close out. Electronic Commerce - Answer: (FAR 4.502) Use it whenever possible as a cost saving measure. Cost, quality and timeliness - Answer: Satisfy the customer in terms of Cost, quality and timeliness of the delivered product or service. The principal customers for the product or service provided by the system are the users and line managers, acting on behalf of the American taxpayer. Determination and findings: - Answer: FAR 1.701 Determination is your conclusion, and the findings are what is used to justify and validate the determination. Justification and approvals: - Answer: FAR 6.303-1(a), 6.302, 6.304 Used when less than full and open competition is used. It is the justification for that use. Approval levels are based on dollar thresholds in the FAR and DFARS. Post Award Orientation is for: - Answer: FAR 42-5 For full understanding of the contract and ensure everyone is on board with the same understanding of the requirements. Standards of conduct: - Answer: FAR 3.101 Must be absolutely ethical in what you're doing personally and on behalf of the government.- Four elements of a contract - Answer: capacity mutual assent Consideration lawful purpose Implied Authority - Answer: Authority that is not expressed or written into the contract, but which the agent is assumed to have in order to transact the business for the principal. specified authority - Answer: Those very specific tasks that are outlined in the contract. Express Authority - Answer: The authority contained in your warrant. Who you are, what agency you work for, and how much you are able to obligate the government for. Actual authority - Answer: The authority act on behalf of an agent. The COR is a good example of actual authority. It is given by the KO, but very narrow in scope. Profit - Answer: A driver and motivator for a contractor. Who has the capacity to contract? - Answer: Of age, of sound mind, have the capacity to contract and understand the obligations, terms and conditions of the contract. Cannot have diminished capacity due to drugs or alcohol. Market Research - Answer: (FAR Part 10) Commercial Items - Answer: A type of product customarily used by the general public. Government wants to drive acquisitions to commercial items... If an RA comes to you, attempt to guide them to a commercial solution. Can the non-commercial requirement be met with a commercial solution? What type(s) of contracts can be awarded when acquiring commercial items of supply? - Answer: Only firm-fixed-price contracts or fixed-price contracts with economic price adjustment Feedback: See FAR 12.207(a) Does the Government's policy to require prime contractors to incorporate, to the maximum extent practicable, commercial items or non-developmental items as components of items supplied to the agency, apply to subcontractors at all levels? - Answer: Yes. Feedback: See FAR 12.101(c) The Government has a requirement for computer equipment. The program office indicates that its users will have no need for performance capabilities beyond the minimum technical specifications stated in the purchase request. Which source selection process would be most appropriate in this situation? - Answer: Lowest price technically acceptable Feedback: See FAR 15.101 Which contract type shifts cost risk from the Government to the contractor? - Answer: Fixed-price Feedback: See FAR 16.104(d) Which section of the uniform contract format (UCF) exists to include negotiated, meaningful special contract requirements that are not included in Section I, Contract clauses, or in other sections of the UCF? - Answer: Section H Feedback: See FAR 15.204-2 In the FAR, the term "discussions" is synonymous with which of the following? - Answer: Negotiations A proposal submission time and date of 2 p.m. on February 3, 2020, appeared on the cover page of a Government solicitation. Based on the information provided at FAR 52.215-1, Instructions to Offerors - Competitive Acquisitions, which of the following proposals is late? - Answer: The contractor provided its proposal at 2:15 p.m. on February 3, 2020. Feedback: See FAR 52.215-1(c)(3) What is the preferred method to make a purchase at or below the micro-purchase threshold? - Answer: Governmentwide commercial purchase card Feedback: See FAR 13.201(b) When does title for a completed product transfer to the Government, assuming the product meets all contract requirements? - Answer: Upon formal acceptance by the Government Feedback: See FAR 46.505(a) Contract files for contracts using simplified acquisition procedures should be considered closed when the contracting officer receives evidence of two things. The first is receipt of the property or service. What is the second? - Answer: Final payment Feedback: See FAR 4.804-2(a) Your customer comes to you anticipating a new requirement, one that has not been purchased recently. You'd like to refer them to the FAR part dealing specifically with market research. Which FAR part do you refer them to? - Answer: FAR part 10 Feedback: See FAR 10.000 .Terms that address specific types of exchanges with offerors after receipt of proposals include: - Answer: Communications, discussions, and clarifications Feedback: See FAR 15.306 In a competitive source selection, does the FAR require you to have the exact same "discussions" with each offeror in the competitive range? - Answer: No, discussions are tailored to each offeror's proposal. With limited exceptions, a Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS) report is required: - Answer: When the contract dollar value exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold A contractor is developing their pricing strategy in a competitive environment. Knowing the required effort will result in follow-on contracts, the contractor submits an offer below anticipated costs with the plan to recover any losses by increasing the price on follow-on efforts. This pricing strategy is referred to as: - Answer: Buying-in Contracting officers shall provide property to contractors only when it is clearly demonstrated that: - Answer: The overall benefit to the acquisition significantly outweighs the increased cost of administration. Feedback: See FAR 45.102 What agency does DoD typically delegate contract administrative responsibilities for supply contracts? - Answer: Defense Contract Management Agency Feedback: See FAR 42.201(b) Quality assurance on contract actions valued below the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT) is: - Answer: Minimal, unless a special circumstance exists . Which type of solicitation may require the submission of certified cost or pricing data? - Answer: Request for proposals You have a requirement for an online subscription to Engineering News Record. The site owner requires payment before they will provide the license code number to activate the annual subscription. Which payment form is required? - Answer: An advance payment . Which of the following best describes the purpose of proposal analysis? - Answer: To ensure the price is fair and reasonable When late in paying an otherwise acceptable invoice, the Government will: - Answer: Pay an interest penalty Feedback: See FAR 32.907(a) A purpose of a postaward orientation is to: - Answer: Achieve a clear and mutual understanding of all contract requirements Feedback: See FAR 42.501(a) In commercial contracting, what quality system is utilized? - Answer: The contractor's Feedback: See FAR 12.208 Which of the following are limited exchanges between the Government and offerors that may occur when award without discussions is contemplated? - Answer: Clarifications Feedback: See FAR 15.306(a) What is the Government's policy as it relates to controversies with a contractor during performance of the contract? - Answer: Attempt to resolve conflict at the contracting officer's level. A contractor failed to deliver a commercial item within the time specified by the contract. As the Government contracting officer, you plan to terminate the contract. What type of termination would you proceed with? - Answer: Termination for Cause Feedback: See FAR 12.403(c) A contracting officer has the broadest discretion in fashioning suitable evaluation procedures when considering: - Answer: Quotations Contractors are responsible for: - Answer: Tendering to the Government for acceptance only those supplies or services that conform to contract quality requirements Feedback: See FAR 46.105 A contract is considered physically complete when the contractor has completed all the required deliveries and: - Answer: The Government has accepted all the items. According to the FAR, the acquisition team: - Answer: Includes the contractor Feedback: See FAR 1.102-3 Which event is meant to aid both the Government and contractor personnel to 1) achieve a clear and mutual understanding of all contract requirements, and (2) identify and resolve potential problems after contract award? - Answer: Postaward orientation conference Feedback: See FAR 42.501(a) The contracting officer is responsible for initiating contract closeout procedures after the contracting officer receives: - Answer: U.S. Court of Federal Claims Feedback: See FAR 33.101 One of the proper protest venues is the: - Answer: U.S. Court of Federal Claims Feedback: See FAR 33.101 Acquisition planning should begin: - Answer: As soon as the agency need is identified Feedback: See FAR 7.104(a) A protest can be filed for which of the following? - Answer: Solicitation Feedback: See FAR 33.101 In briefing prenegotiation objectives for approval, contracting officers should ensure their briefing slides are: - Answer: Simple and concise Which offerors receive an amendment on a solicitation that has yet to close? - Answer: All parties receiving the solicitation Feedback: See FAR 15.206(b) Select the statement that is NOT conducive toward forming a cohesive team. - Answer: The Government should foster an "arm's length" approach for an effective relationship. Feedback: See FAR 1.102-4(d) With few exceptions, which one of the following statements is true regarding awarding contracts to U.S. Government employees? - Answer: A contracting officer shall not knowingly award a contract to a Government employee Josh, a Government contract specialist, received several offers on a request for proposal (RFP) that was set aside for a small business. In order to avoid unnecessary work, what should be the first thing Josh should ensure when he reviews each proposal? - Answer: The proposal is from a small business. Feedback: See FAR 19.501(a)(1) Which of the following documents would the contracting officer use to document the purpose, description, and outcome of negotiations? - Answer: Price Negotiation Memorandum Feedback: See FAR 15.406-3(a) An overarching principle for responding to questions from all potential offerors is: - Answer: Fairness Feedback: See FAR 1.102(b)(3) According to the FAR, acceptance of supplies or services is the responsibility of whom? - Answer: The contracting officer Feedback: See FAR 46.502 When a potential contractor is developing a proposal where cost analysis will be performed, the potential contractor will need to ensure it has excluded from the proposal any costs that are: - Answer: Expressly unallowable Feedback: See FAR 31.201-6 Which is an essential element of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)? - Answer: A voluntary election by both parties to participate in the ADR process Feedback: See FAR 33.214 Quality assurance policies and procedures found in FAR part 46: - Answer: Apply to both the Government and contractor Feedback: See FAR 46.000 You have determined that FAR part 12 applies to your commercial item requirement. Which of the following contract types is appropriate when using FAR part 12 procedures? - Answer: Firm-fixed-price Feedback: See FAR 12.207 Of the following types of contracts, which shall not be used in Government contracting? - Answer: Cost-plus-a-percentage-of-cost Feedback: See FAR 16.102(c) The Government's preferred remedy to nonconforming goods or services is: - Answer: Allow the contractor to repair or replace the nonconforming items, as long as there is still time left within the required delivery schedule. Feedback: See FAR 46.407 Unless an exception exists, and in accordance with FAR part 15-Contracting by Negotiations, noncommercial contracts and solicitations will be awarded utilizing what contract format? - Answer: The uniform contract format Which term means the total cost to the Government of acquiring, operating, supporting, and (if applicable) disposing of the items being acquired? - Answer: Life-cycle costs Feedback: See FAR 7.101 Which of the following entities has privity with a first-tier subcontractor? - Answer: The prime contractor Feedback: See FAR 42.505 Which of the following is correct regarding use of the tradeoff source selection process? - Answer: Evaluation factors that will affect contract award must be stated in the solicitation. Feedback: See FAR 15.101-1 You've received a claim on your contract. The contractor is required to certify its claim above what amount? - Answer: $100,000 Feedback: See FAR 33.207(a) What office/entity is responsible for initiating administrative closeout of the contract after receiving evidence of physical completion? - Answer: The Government contract administration office Feedback: See FAR 4.804-5(a) You are a proposal manager for a large defense contractor, leading your company's effort to win a contract. In order to determine the page limit for your proposal, which section in the request for proposal should you review? - Answer: Section L - Instructions, conditions, and notices to offerors or respondents Feedback: See FAR 15.204-1 The purpose of exchanging information with industry before receipt of proposals is to: - Answer: Improve the understanding of Government requirements and industry capabilities Feedback: See FAR 15.201(b) You are a contracting officer who has a $260,000 commercial contract. You decide you need to terminate the contract because the contractor has failed to perform. What is the name of this type of termination? - Answer: For Cause Feedback: See FAR 12.403(a) Which acquisition situation would warrant an exception to the requirement for certified cost or pricing data? - Answer: Commercial item acquisition With respect to the requirements of law, executive orders, regulations, and all other applicable procedures, prior to signing a contract, a contracting officer must: - Answer: Ensure that each has been met Whenever a contracting officer is required to publicize notice of proposed contract actions in the Governmentwide point of entry (GPE), they must: - Answer: Establish a common response time for all offerors from the date of publication Feedback: See FAR 5.207 You are a DoD contracting officer and have used simplified acquisition procedures under FAR part 13 to award a commercial purchase order for supplies. Given only this information, which form is most appropriate to use should you need to modify your purchase order? - Answer: Standard Form 30, Amendment of Solicitation/Modification of Contract Which FAR part is the best source of information regarding competition requirements? - Answer: FAR part 6 Feedback: See FAR 6.000 To the maximum extent practicable, acquisition officials shall state requirements of supplies or services in terms of functions to be performed, performance required, or: - Answer: Essential physical characteristics Feedback: FAR 11.002(a)(2) In ensuring overall quality of items and services received under a contract, which of the following is the responsibility of the Government? - Answer: Quality assurance surveillance Feedback: See FAR subpart 46.1 What underlying principle should the contracting officer follow to avoid organizational conflicts of interest? - Answer: Prevent unfair competitive advantage Feedback: See FAR 9.505 Where in the FAR is contracting by negotiation covered? - Answer: FAR part 15 Feedback: See FAR part 15 When a contractor submits a Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing data, it is certifying that: - Answer: The data submitted in support of a negotiations are current, accurate, and complete. Feedback: See FAR 15.406-2 Prenegotiation objectives: - Answer: Establish the Government's initial negotiation position Feedback: See FAR 15.406-1(a) Except when authorized otherwise, a Government contract: - Answer: Must be in writing Feedback: See FAR 2.101, definition of a contract A contractor employee accidentally broke a test fixture that belongs to the Government and is accountable to a Government contract. Generally speaking: - Answer: Contractors are not held liable for loss of Government property. After release of the solicitation, who must be the focal point of any exchange with potential offerors? - Answer: The contracting officer Feedback: See FAR 15.201(f) & FAR 15.303(c) When can a time-and-materials (T&M) contract be used? - Answer: A T&M contract may be used only when it is not possible at the time of placing the contract to estimate accurately the extent or duration of the work or to anticipate costs Feedback: See FAR 16.601(c) One day after publicizing and releasing a solicitation, the contracting officer realizes that the contract line items need to be reorganized. The contracting officer must: - Answer: Amend the solicitation, changing the contract line items Feedback: See FAR 15.206 What is a Procurement Instrument Identifier (PIID)? - Answer: A unique number identifying each solicitation, contract, agreement, or order and related procurement instrument Feedback: See FAR 4.1603(a)(3) When using FAR part 12 procedures, the technical evaluation would normally include examination of such things as product literature, product samples (if requested), technical features, and: - Answer: Warranty provisions Feedback: See FAR 12.602(b) Of the following, which is an acceptable venue to file a protest? - Answer: The agency Feedback: See FAR 33.101 Joan stated that she was working on selecting solicitation provisions. With this in mind, you know the contract: - Answer: Has not been awarded Feedback: See FAR 2.101 Which of the following statements best conveys the convention at FAR 1.108(b), delegation of authority? - Answer: Each authority is delegable unless specifically stated otherwise Feedback: See FAR 1.108(b) What are the two types of contract modifications? - Answer: Unilateral and bilateral Feedback: See FAR 43.103 Government contract types are grouped into two broad categories: fixed-price contracts and: - Answer: Cost-reimbursement contracts Feedback: See FAR 16.101(b) What part of the FAR covers terminations? - Answer: FAR part 49 Feedback: See FAR part 49 Does the Government have the right to inspect a product before it is accepted? - Answer: Yes, always. Feedback: See FAR 52.246-2 A program manager asked John whether a contract clause is only used in the contract or if it applies to the solicitation as well. John correctly answered by replying with which of the following statements? - Answer: A contract clause is a term or condition used in contracts, or in both solicitations and contracts, that applies after contract award or both before and after award Feedback: See FAR 2.101 The Government team is ready to request final proposal revisions. As a result, we know that: - Answer: Discussions have concluded Feedback: See FAR 15.307(B) Provisions and clauses should be incorporated by reference in solicitations and contracts: - Answer: To the maximum practical extent, rather than being incorporated in full text Feedback: See FAR 52.102(a) Market research is conducted during which phase of acquisition? - Answer: All phases of the acquisiton Feedback: See FAR 10.001(a)(2)(vi) What would be the preferred way to acquire an item in Government contracting? - Answer: Purchase the requirement as a commercial item. Feedback: See FAR 10.002(d) What is the objective of a source selection? - Answer: To select the proposal that represents the best value Feedback: See FAR 15.302 When holding discussions with offerors in a source selection, all the following must be discussed EXCEPT: - Answer: Price You're administering a large dollar non-commercial weapons contract. The contracting officer asks to see the Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) in Exhibit B. Which uniform contract format (UCF) section in your contract would you refer to? - Answer: Section J Feedback: See FAR 14.201-4 & 15.204-4 Which of the following statements is accurate regarding the Government's policy on contract modifications? - Answer: Only contracting officers acting within the scope of their authority are authorized to execute contract modifications on behalf of the Government Feedback: See FAR 43.102 Upon notice that a protest has been filed with the Government Accountability Office (GAO), who must immediately begin compiling the information necessary for a report to the GAO? - Answer: The contracting officer Feedback: See FAR 33.104(3)(i) Which of the following reflects market research policy? Market research: - Answer: Aids in determining if sources capable of satisfying the agency's requirements exist Feedback: See FAR 10.001 During discussions, the contracting officer: - Answer: Should discuss aspects of an offeror's proposal if alterations or explanations would enhance the proposal's potential for award What FAR part covers protests? - Answer: FAR part 33 Feedback: See FAR 33.000 Acme Company did not make the competitive range in a source selection. When the contracting officer asks for final proposal revisions, the contracting officer: - Answer: Will not contact Acme Company since it is no longer in the competition The DoD Procurement Instrument Identifier (PIID) is 13 positions long. Position 9 identifies the type of instrument. If position 9 is a "D", which of the following types of instruments is representative? - Answer: Indefinite-delivery contracts to include IDIQs and requirements contracts Feedback: See FAR 4.1603(a)(3) Which of the following is an exception to obtaining certified cost or pricing data? - Answer: Adequate price competition Select the order for the proposal evaluation process. - Answer: Evaluate initial proposals, determine the competitive range, negotiate, request final proposal revisions, award the contract Feedback: See FAR subpart 15.3 In a Determination and Findings, the findings are: - Answer: Support for the determination Feedback: See FAR 1.701 Which FAR part sets forth the basic policies and general information about the Federal Acquisition Regulation System? - Answer: FAR part 1 Feedback: See FAR 1.000 When shall contracting officers negotiate equitable adjustments resulting from change orders? - Answer: Within the shortest practicable time Feedback: See FAR 43.204(b)(1) What is the use of a procedure that is inconsistent with the FAR? - Answer: Deviation Feedback: See FAR 1.401(a) When acquiring commercial items, quality assurance is primarily the responsibility of: - Answer: The contractor Feedback: See FAR 46.202-1 The contracting officer shall take which of the following actions to encourage small business participation in acquisitions? - Answer: Divide acquisitions into reasonably small lots to permit offers on quantities less than the total requirement. Feedback: See FAR 19.202-1 Incentive contracts are designed to obtain specific acquisition objectives by: - Answer: Motivating contractor efforts that might not otherwise be emphasized Feedback: See FAR 16.401(a) Which FAR part is titled "Subcontracting Policies and Procedures"? - Answer: FAR part 44 Feedback: See FAR part 44 You are reviewing a contract that utilizes the uniform contract format. In Section J you see an exhibit. How will the exhibit be displayed? - Answer: With one or two alpha characters (e.g., Exhibit AA) Feedback: See DFARS PGI 204.7105(b) Where in the FAR can you find guidance on how to establish, maintain, and dispose of Government contract files? - Answer: FAR part 4 Feedback: See FAR subpart 4.8 Which of the following modifications must be issued bilaterally? - Answer: Making a negotiated equitable adjustment caused by a change order Which of the following is specifically set up to help firms view current Government business opportunities? - Answer: The Governmentwide Point of Entry (GPE) Feedback: See FAR 2.101, definition of "Government point of entry" Which of the following is correct regarding the DFARS Procedures Guidance and Information (PGI)? - Answer: The DFARS PGI is a companion resource to the DFARS Feedback: See DFARS 202.101 How many parts are there in the FAR? - Answer: 53 Feedback: See Chapter 1, Title 48 CFR To be determined responsible by a contracting officer, a prospective contractor must: - Answer: Have adequate financial resources to perform the contract, or the ability to obtain them Feedback: See FAR 9.104-1(a) Which of the following is correct regarding the preaward debriefing of offerors excluded from the competitive range? - Answer: The offeror must request the debriefing by written request to the contracting officer within 3 days after receipt of the notice of exclusion from the competition. Feedback: See FAR 15.505 It is the Government's pricing policy to purchase supplies and services at fair and reasonable prices from: - Answer: Responsible sources Feedback: See FAR 15.402 What entity can the contractor appeal to if they do not agree with the contracting officer's final decision on a claim? - Answer: The United States Court of Federal Claims What are the two types of negotiated acquisitions? - Answer: Sole source and competitive Feedback: See FAR 15.002 Which of the following statements regarding Small Business Subcontracting Plans is accurate? - Answer: Not required for contracts with large businesses performed overseas Feedback: See FAR 19.702(b) When using invitations for bids (IFBs), what type(s) of contracts can be awarded? - Answer: Only firm-fixed-price contracts or fixed-price contracts with economic price adjustment Feedback: See FAR 16.102(a) The authority of a contracting officer's representative (COR) shall be: - Answer: Designated in writing, with a copy given to the contractor and contract administration office Feedback: See FAR 1.602-2(d)(7) Who is the individual designated and authorized in writing by the contracting officer to perform specific technical or administrative functions? - Answer: Contracting officer's representative Feedback: See FAR 2.101, definition of a contracting officer's representative What type of contract should be used for an item that uses a very large amount of gold and other precious metals in the manufacturing process? - Answer: Fixed-price with economic price adjustment Feedback: See FAR 16.203 When preparing a solicitation, the quality requirements essential to ensure the integrity of the supplies or services is developed by whom? - Answer: The activity responsible for technical requirements Contractors are required to certify that a claim is made in good faith when submitting any claim exceeding: - Answer: $100,000 Feedback: See FAR 33.207 Which of the following statements is accurate regarding Acquisition Teams? - Answer: The Acquisition Team includes representatives of the technical, supply, and procurement communities, the customers they serve, and the contractors who provide the products and services. Feedback: See FAR 1.102 With limited exceptions as authorized by agency regulations, what does the FAR say about Government employees soliciting and accepting gifts from contractors? Government employees: - Answer: May not solicit or accept gifts At what dollar value must a contracting officer synopsize a proposed contract action in the Governmentwide point of entry (GPE)? - Answer: Expected to exceed $25,000 Feedback: See FAR 5.101(a)(1) Two neighbors do not get along very well. One is a contracting officer, and the other works for an auto dealership, that has no contracts with the Government. The auto dealership employee decided to file a protest to a contract that was just awarded, knowing it would add extra work to the contracting officer's day. Can the contracting officer's neighbor file a protest as an interested party? - Answer: No. Feedback: See FAR 33.101 Which is NOT a type of contracting officer? - Answer: Executive contracting officer Feedback: See FAR 2.101, definition of contacting officer In evaluating a solicitation, which section of the uniform contract format (UCF) would contain information to the offeror regarding the evaluation factors and subfactors the Government will use to evaluate the offeror's proposal? - Answer: Section M The competitive range for competitive negotiations must be established: - Answer: Prior to entering into discussions Feedback: See FAR 15.306(c)(1) Which of the following is the correct title of a solicitation for negotiated procedures? - Answer: Request for Proposals Feedback: See FAR 2.101 Which of the following is an accounting or financial term when addressing contractual funding issues? - Answer: Fiscal Change orders issued under the changes clause of the contract use which form? - Answer: SF 30 Feedback: See FAR 43.201(a) Which of the following would represent, or potentially represent, an organizational conflict of interest (OCI)? - Answer: An engineering support contractor (contractor A) is hired to assist in the development of Government specifications for a new requirement. Contractor A writes the specifications in such a way as to require the Government's use of contractor A's proprietary processes even though there are other solutions. Feedback: See FAR 9.505-1(b) Which of the following contract modifications must be signed by both the contractor and the contracting officer? - Answer: An agreement definitizing a letter contract Which of the following is accurate about unilateral modifications? - Answer: Are only signed by a Government contracting officer, not the contractor Feedback: FAR 43.103(b) A postaward orientation aids both Government and contractor personnel to: - Answer: Achieve a clear and mutual understanding of all contract requirements and identify and resolve potential problems Feedback: See FAR 42.501 What is the tool (form) used by DoD to apply a structured profit/fee? - Answer: DD Form 1547, Weighted Guidelines Method Feedback: See DFARS 215.404-70 What is the general guidance provided by the FAR for contractor bid or proposal information? - Answer: It may not be disclosed to anyone unless they are authorized to receive it Feedback: See FAR 3.104-4(a) Can a contractor file a protest at any time it chooses? - Answer: No, there are established timeframes within which a contractor must file its protest. Feedback: See FAR 33.103(e), 33.105 & 4 CFR Part 21 Select the action performed early in the acquisition cycle versus at or near contract award. - Answer: The acquisition plan is drafted and approved according to agency policy. Feedback: See FAR 7.104(a) Negotiating positions should be developed through which of the following? - Answer: Price or cost analysis Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP) should: - Answer: Promote competition to the maximum extent practicable Feedback: See FAR 13.003(h) Agencies shall conduct market research: - Answer: Appropriate to the circumstances Feedback: FAR 10.001 It is the Government's policy that before executing a contract, the contracting officer must: - Answer: Obtain written assurance from the responsible fiscal authority that adequate funds are available. Feedback: See FAR 32.702(a) Who may execute contract modifications on behalf of the Government? - Answer: Contracting officers Feedback: See FAR 43.102(a) It is the Government's policy that before executing a contract, the contracting officer must: - Answer: Obtain written assurance from the responsible fiscal authority that adequate funds are available. Feedback: See FAR 32.702(a) What would be the preferred way to acquire an item in Government contracting? - Answer: Purchase the requirement as a commercial item. Feedback: See FAR 10.002(d) Contracting officers shall provide property to contractors only when it is clearly demonstrated that: - Answer: The overall benefit to the acquisition significantly outweighs the increased cost of administration. Feedback: See FAR 45.102 Acquisition planning should begin: - Answer: As soon as the agency need is identified Feedback: See FAR 7.104(a) Which of the following is an exception to obtaining certified cost or pricing data? - Answer: Adequate price competition Feedback: See FAR 15.403-1(b) The contracting officer shall take which of the following actions to encourage small business participation in acquisitions? - Answer: Divide acquisitions into reasonably small lots to permit offers on quantities less than the total requirement. Feedback: See FAR 19.202-1 Government contract types are grouped into two broad categories: fixed-price contracts and: - Answer: Variable-cost contracts Feedback: See FAR 16.101(b) Incentive contracts are designed to obtain specific acquisition objectives by: - Answer: Motivating contractor efforts that might not otherwise be emphasized Feedback: See FAR 16.401(a) Agencies shall conduct market research: - Answer: Appropriate to the circumstances Feedback: FAR 10.001 To the maximum extent practicable, acquisition officials shall state requirements of supplies or services in terms of functions to be performed, performance required, or: - Answer: Essential physical characteristics Feedback: FAR 11.002(a)(2) When using FAR part 12 procedures, the technical evaluation would normally include examination of such things as product literature, product samples (if requested), technical features, and: - Answer: Warranty provisions Feedback: See FAR 12.602(b) Provisions and clauses should be incorporated by reference in solicitations and contracts: - Answer: To the maximum practical extent, rather than being incorporated in full text Feedback: See FAR 52.102(a) Which offerors receive an amendment on a solicitation that has yet to close? - Answer: All parties receiving the solicitation Feedback: See FAR 15.206(b) The purpose of exchanging information with industry before receipt of proposals is to: - Answer: Improve the understanding of Government requirements and industry capabilities Feedback: See FAR 15.201(b) Which of the following is the correct title of a solicitation for negotiated procedures? - Answer: Request for Proposals Feedback: See FAR 2.101 At what dollar value must a contracting officer synopsize a proposed contract action in the Governmentwide point of entry (GPE)? - Answer: Expected to exceed $25,000 Feedback: See FAR 5.101(a)(1) After release of the solicitation, who must be the focal point of any exchange with potential offerors? - Answer: The contracting officer Feedback: See FAR 15.201(f) & FAR 15.303(c) An overarching principle for responding to questions from all potential offerors is: - Answer: Fairness Feedback: See FAR 1.102(b)(3) Whenever a contracting officer is required to publicize notice of proposed contract actions in the Governmentwide point of entry (GPE), they must: - Answer: Establish a common response time for all offerors from the date of publication Feedback: See FAR 5.207 One day after publicizing and releasing a solicitation, the contracting officer realizes that the contract line items need to be reorganized. The contracting officer must: - Answer: Amend the solicitation, changing the contract line items Feedback: See FAR 15.206 Which FAR part is the best source of information regarding competition requirements? - Answer: FAR part 6 Feedback: See FAR 6.000 You have determined that FAR part 12 applies to your commercial item requirement. Which of the following contract types is appropriate when using FAR part 12 procedures? - Answer: Firm-fixed-price Feedback: See FAR 12.207 You are a DoD contracting officer and have determined the use of simplified acquisition procedures under FAR part 13 is appropriate for your customer's non-commercial requirement. Given only this information, which award form is most appropriate? - Answer: Standard Form 1449, Solicitation/Contract/Order for Commercial Items Feedback: See DFARS 253.213(f) You're administering a large dollar non-commercial weapons contract. The contracting officer asks to see the Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) in Exhibit B. Which uniform contract format (UCF) section in your contract would you refer to? - Answer: Section J Feedback: See FAR 14.201-4 & 15.204-4 Which of the following is specifcally set up to help firms view current Government business opportunities? - Answer: The Governmentwide Point of Entry (GPE) Feedback: See FAR 2.101, definition of "Government point of entry" In evaluating a solicitation, which section of the uniform contract format (UCF) would contain information to the offeror regarding the evaluation factors and subfactors the Government will use to evaluate the offeror's proposal? - Answer: Section M Feedback: See FAR 14.201-1 & 15.204-1 You are a proposal manager for a large defense contractor, leading your company's effort to win a contract. In order to determine the page limit for your proposal, which section in the request for proposal should you review? - Answer: Section L - Instructions, conditions, and notices to offerors or respondents Feedback: See FAR 15.204-1 A contractor is developing their pricing strategy in a competitive environment. Knowing the required effort will result in follow-on contracts, the contractor submits an offer below anticipated costs with the plan to recover any losses by increasing the price on follow-on efforts. This pricing strategy is referred to as: - Answer: Buying-in Feedback: See FAR 3.501-1 What type of contract should be used for an item that uses a very large amount of gold and other precious metals in the manufacturing process? - Answer: Fixed-price with economic price adjustment Feedback: See FAR 16.203 When a potential contractor is developing a proposal where cost analysis will be performed, the potential contractor will need to ensure it has excluded from the proposal any costs that are: - Answer: Expressly unallowable Feedback: See FAR 31.201-6 It is the Government's pricing policy to purchase supplies and services at fair and reasonable prices from: - Answer: Responsible sources Feedback: See FAR 15.402 What are the two types of negotiated acquisitions? - Answer: Sole source and competitive Feedback: See FAR 15.002 What is the objective of a source selection? - Answer: To select the proposal that represents the best value Feedback: See FAR 15.302 Which contract type shifts cost risk from the Government to the contractor? - Answer: Fixed-price Feedback: See FAR 16.104(d) Which of the following best describes the purpose of proposal analysis? - Answer: To ensure the price is fair and reasonable Which type of solicitation may require the submission of certified cost or pricing data? - Answer: Request for proposals A contracting officer has the broadest discretion in fashioning suitable evaluation procedures when considering: - Answer: Quotations Which acquisition situation would warrant an exception to the requirement for certified cost or pricing data? - Answer: Commercial item acquisition Feedback: See FAR 15.403 A proposal submission time and date of 2 p.m. on February 3, 2020, appeared on the cover page of a Government solicitation. Based on the information provided at FAR 52.215-1, Instructions to Offerors - Competitive Acquisitions, which of the following proposals is late? - Answer: The contractor provided its proposal at 2:15 p.m. on February 3, 2020. Feedback: See FAR 52.215-1(c)(3) When a contractor submits a Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing data, it is certifying that: - Answer: The data submitted in support of a negotiations are current, accurate, and complete. Feedback: See FAR 15.406-2 Negotiating positions should be developed through which of the following? - Answer: Price or cost analysis Which of the following documents would the contracting officer use to document the purpose, description, and outcome of negotiations? - Answer: Price Negotiation Memorandum Feedback: See FAR 15.406-3(a) Where in the FAR is contracting by negotiation covered? - Answer: FAR part 15 Feedback: See FAR part 15 During discussions, the contracting officer: - Answer: Should discuss aspects of an offeror's proposal if alterations or explanations would enhance the proposal's potential for award Feedback: See FAR 15.306(d) Prenegotiation objectives: - Answer: Establish the Government's initial negotiation position Feedback: See FAR 15.406-1(a) The competitive range for competitive negotiations must be established: - Answer: Prior to entering into discussions Feedback: See FAR 15.306(c)(1) In the FAR, the term "discussions" is synonymous with which of the following? - Answer: Negotiations Feedback: See FAR 15.306 When holding discussions with offerors in a source selection, all the following must be discussed EXCEPT: - Answer: Adverse past performance information to which the offeror has not yet had an opportunity to respond Feedback: See FAR 15.306(d)(3) Select the order for the proposal evaluation process. - Answer: Evaluate initial proposals, determine the competitive range, negotiate, request final proposal revisions, award the contract Feedback: See FAR subpart 15.3 Acme Company did not make the competitive range in a source selection. When the contracting officer asks for final proposal revisions, the contracting officer: - Answer: Has the option to either contact Acme Company and request a final proposal revision or not contact Acme Company Feedback: See FAR 15.307(a) Which of the following is correct regarding use of the tradeoff source selection process? - Answer: Evaluation factors that will affect contract award must be stated in the solicitation. Feedback: See FAR 15.101-1 Which of the following is correct regarding the preaward debriefing of offerors excluded from the competitive range? - Answer: The offeror must request the debriefing by written request to the contracting officer within 3 days after receipt of the notice of exclusion from the competition. Feedback: See FAR 15.505 The Government has a requirement for computer equipment. The program office indicates that its users will have no need for performance capabilities beyond the minimum technical specifications stated in the purchase request. Which source selection process would be most appropriate in this situation? - Answer: Lowest price technically acceptable Feedback: See FAR 15.101 The Government team is ready to request final proposal revisions. As a result, we know that: - Answer: The final round of discussions is about to commence Feedback: See FAR 15.307(B) Unless an exception exists, and in accordance with FAR part 15-Contracting by Negotiations, noncommercial contracts and solicitations will be awarded utilizing what contract format? - Answer: The uniform contract format Feedback: See FAR 15.204 Of the following, which is an acceptable venue to file a protest? - Answer: U.S. District Court of Protest, Claims and Appeals Feedback: See FAR 33.101 One of the proper protest venues is the: - Answer: U.S. District Court Feedback: See FAR 33.101 Upon notice that a protest has been filed with the Government Accountability Office (GAO), who must immediately begin compiling the information necessary for a report to the GAO? - Answer: The contracting officer Feedback: See FAR 33.104(3)(i) Which is an essential element of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)? - Answer: A voluntary election by both parties to participate in the ADR process Feedback: See FAR 33.214 Two neighbors do not get along very well. One is a contracting officer, and the other works for an auto dealership, that has no contracts with the Government. The auto dealership employee decided to file a protest to a contract that was just awarded, knowing it would add extra work to the contracting officer's day. Can the contracting officer's neighbor file a protest as an interested party? - Answer: No. Feedback: See FAR 33.101 Can a contractor file a protest at any time it chooses? - Answer: No, there are established timeframes within which a contractor must file its protest. Feedback: See FAR 33.103(e), 33.105 & 4 CFR Part 21 What is the Government's policy as it relates to controversies with a contractor during performance of the contract? - Answer: Attempt to resolve conflict at the contracting officer's level. Feedback: See FAR 33.204 What FAR part covers protests? - Answer: FAR part 33 Feedback: See FAR 33.000 Which of the following are limited exchanges between the Government and offerors that may occur when award without discussions is contemplated? - Answer: Clarifications Feedback: See FAR 15.306(a) In a competitive source selection, does the FAR require you to have the exact same "discussions" with each offeror in the competitive range? - Answer: No, discussions are tailored to each offeror's proposal. Feedback: See FAR 15.306(d)(1) Select the action performed early in the acquisition cycle versus at or near contract award. The acquisition plan is drafted and approved according to agency policy. - Answer: The acquisition plan is drafted and approved according to agency policy. Feedback: See FAR 7.104(a) What is the preferred method to make a purchase at or below the micro-purchase threshold? Governmentwide commercial purchase card - Answer: Governmentwide commercial purchase card Feedback: See FAR 13.201(b) Josh, a Government contract specialist, received several offers on a request for proposal (RFP) that was set aside for a small business. In order to avoid unnecessary work, what should be the first thing Josh should ensure when he reviews each proposal? - Answer: The proposal is from a small business. A protest can be filed for which of the following? - Answer: Solicitation Feedback: See FAR 33.101 Of the following, which is an acceptable venue to file a protest? - Answer: The agency Contractors are required to certify that a claim is made in good faith when submitting any claim exceeding: - Answer: $100,000 Feedback: See FAR 33.207