Contract Administration Process Improvements Developed and Applied to a USDA Forest Service, Chugach National Forest, Cordova Ranger District Hazmat Storage Facility Replacement

Abstract

Contract administration is a critical work component for United States federal government agencies. It ensures that contractors perform according to the contract requirements and deliver the scope of work as defined. Successful administration of a contract between the federal agency (project owner) and the contractor conducting the work is essential to deliver positive outcomes, reduce risk, and maintain a productive and collaborative workflow involving multiple people with different roles. Both new and experienced staff may have limited or inconsistent understanding of contract administration and how to initiate and manage this important process. Detailed and holistic representation of process workflows provides clarity, captures valuable information, supports effective decision making, and identifies continuous improvement opportunities. A companion guide adds supporting detail to ensure consistent understanding. Existing contract administration documents, literature review, and stakeholders’ experiences for the Engineering Department of the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service-Chugach National Forest-Cordova Ranger District were evaluated. Research identified opportunities to refine clarity, comprehensiveness, accuracy, and consistent use of the contract administration process for this agency. Based on research conducted, this project developed an instructional guide and process workflow chart to improve the contract administration process for new and experienced project staff using a hazardous materials storage facility replacement project in Cordova, Alaska as a reference example.