17.502-1
General
FAR 17.502-1 requires clear, documented agreements and thorough business-case analyses to ensure accountability and compliance in interagency and multi-agency acquisitions.
Overview
FAR 17.502-1 outlines the general requirements for interagency acquisitions, focusing on the need for clear agreements and documentation when one agency (the servicing agency) acquires goods or services on behalf of another (the requesting agency). It distinguishes between assisted and direct acquisitions, specifying when written agreements are required and what they must include. The section also establishes the need for a business-case analysis when creating multi-agency or governmentwide acquisition contracts, detailing the required elements of such analyses to ensure transparency, efficiency, and compliance with federal procurement policy.
Key Rules
- Written Agreements for Assisted Acquisitions
- Before issuing a solicitation, both the servicing and requesting agencies must sign a written interagency agreement outlining roles, responsibilities, and any unique requirements. This agreement must be included in both agencies’ files and be sufficient for audit purposes.
- Direct Acquisitions
- No written agreement is required when the requesting agency administers the order directly.
- Business-Case Analysis for Multi-Agency and Governmentwide Contracts
- Servicing agencies must prepare and obtain approval for a business-case analysis before establishing these contracts, addressing small business participation, cost analysis, purchasing power impact, necessity, and administrative roles.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure written agreements are in place for assisted acquisitions, maintain proper documentation, and oversee business-case analysis preparation and approval.
- Contractors: Must comply with any unique terms and conditions provided by the requesting agency and be aware of the administrative structure of the acquisition.
- Agencies: Must collaborate on agreements, provide necessary documentation, and follow OFPP guidance for interagency acquisitions and business-case analyses.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures accountability and clarity in interagency acquisitions, reducing the risk of miscommunication or non-compliance. It impacts daily contracting by requiring thorough documentation and planning, especially for complex or multi-agency contracts. Common pitfalls include failing to document agreements or omitting required business-case elements, which can lead to audit issues or contract delays.