Federal Acquisition Regulation; FAR Case 2004-019, Earned Value Management System (EVMS), 38238-38247 [06-5966]

Agencies

• General Services Administration
• National Aeronautics and Space Administration
• DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 128 (Wednesday, July 5, 2006)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 38238-38247]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 06-5966]


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DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

48 CFR Parts 2, 7, 34, and 52

[FAC 2005-11; FAR Case 2004-019; Item I;Docket 2006-0020, Sequence 13]
RIN 9000-AK16


Federal Acquisition Regulation; FAR Case 2004-019, Earned Value 
Management System (EVMS)

AGENCIES:  Department of Defense (DoD), General Services Administration 
(GSA), and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

ACTION:  Final rule.

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SUMMARY:  The Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense 
Acquisition Regulations Council (Councils) have agreed on a final rule 
amending the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement earned 
value management system (EVMS) policy. FAR coverage is necessary to 
help standardize the use of EVMS across the Government. The final rule 
specifically impacts contracting officers, program managers, and 
offerors/contractors required to manage contracts by utilizing earned 
value management systems for major acquisitions.

DATES: Effective Date: July 5, 2006.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:  For clarification of content, contact 
Ms. Jeritta Parnell, Procurement Analyst, at (202) 501-4082. Please 
cite FAC 2005-11, FAR case 2004-019. For information

[[Page 38239]]

pertaining to status or publication schedules, contact the FAR 
Secretariat at (202) 501-4755.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

A. Background

    This final rule amends the Federal Acquisition Regulation to 
implement Earned Value Management System (EVMS) policy in accordance 
with OMB Circular A-11, Part 7 and the supplement to Part 7, the 
Capital Planning Guide. The Circular sets forth policy, budget 
justification, and reporting requirements that apply to all agencies of 
the Executive Branch of the Government that are subject to Executive 
Branch review for major capital acquisitions. Performance based 
acquisition management requires the use of EVMS on those parts of the 
acquisition where developmental effort is required. This includes 
prototypes and tests to select the most cost effective alternative 
during the planning phase, acquisition phase, and any developmental, 
modification or upgrade effort(s) performed during the operational/
steady state phase. Currently, the FAR does not include standard EVMS 
policy, provisions, or clauses available for Governmentwide use.
    The Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) formally submitted 
proposed FAR changes to the General Services Administration in June 
2004. DoD, GSA, and NASA published a proposed rule, implementing 
standard EVMS policy for Governmentwide use, in the Federal Register at 
70 FR 17945, April 8, 2005 and the public comment period closed on June 
7, 2005.
    Twenty-five respondents submitted 109 comments. The 109 comments 
received were grouped into ten categories. A discussion of these public 
comments by category is provided below. The Councils considered all 
comments and concluded that the proposed rule should be converted to a 
final rule, with changes to the proposed rule. Differences between the 
proposed rule and final rule are identified in the summary of changes 
below following the discussion in the responses to the public comments 
below.
    Public comments. A summary of the ten categories is as follows:
     Allowability.
     EVM Applicability, Thresholds and Exclusions.
     Pre-award Integrated Baseline Reviews (IBRs).
     Post-award IBRs.
     Modified IBRs.
     Reporting.
     EVMS Compliance, System Surveillance and Approval of 
Changes.
     Training.
     Miscellaneous Comments.
     Unrelated to Proposed Rule.

Allowability

    Comment: A number of commenters requested a change to the FAR cost 
principles (FAR Part 31) to make EVMS explicitly allowable. One 
commenter further stated that the ``EVMS rule should explicitly state 
that contracts must permit recovery of EVMS Costs Allocable to the 
contract.''
    Response: The Councils do not believe FAR Part 31 should be 
revised. Cost allocability is only one of several requirements for 
allowability specified at FAR 31.201-2(a). The costs must also be 
reasonable, in accordance with the terms of the contract, and compliant 
with the provisions set forth in Part 31. Agencies have the flexibility 
of paying for pre-award IBRs.

EVM Applicability, Thresholds and Exclusions

    Comment: A number of commenters expressed concern over the contract 
dollar thresholds for which EVMS would apply. Some commenters 
recommended specific dollar thresholds for EVMS applicability and 
approval.
    Response: The Councils believe EVMS application should be based on 
the particular agency facts and circumstances rather than specifying a 
threshold in the FAR. In accordance with OMB Circular A-11, Part 7, 
agencies have the authority to establish dollar thresholds and EVMS 
applicability criteria.
    Comment: A number of commenters recommended that certain contract 
types be excluded from the requirements of EVMS, i.e., firm fixed 
price, time and materials, level of effort, and commercial item 
contracts under FAR Part 12.
    Response: The Councils believe it is not appropriate to exclude 
certain contract types from EVMS requirements in the FAR. In accordance 
with OMB Circular A-11, Part 7, EVMS is required for major acquisitions 
for development regardless of contract type.
    Comment: A commenter stated that any decision to use EVMS should be 
part of a formal documented acquisition strategy.
    Response: The Councils agree that the use of EVMS should be part of 
a formal documented acquisition strategy. This requirement is addressed 
at 7.105(b)(10) of the final rule.
    Comment: A number of commenters stated that the requirement for 
EVMS for contractors will impact the overall cost to the government of 
acquisitions.
    Response: EVMS is required for major acquisitions for development, 
in accordance with OMB Circular A-11. The Councils further note that 
agencies have significant discretion in determining the size and 
complexity of projects that meet the criteria for a major acquisition 
set by the agency.
    Comment: The commenter stated that the methodology the Government 
will employ to analyze and use the EVM data to assess and monitor 
performance should be included in Acquisition Plans. This oversight 
shall not extend beyond the intent or requirements of the ANSI/EIA - 
748 standard or a contract's terms and conditions and statement of work 
(SOW).
    Response: The Councils agree that acquisition plans must discuss 
the methodology the Government will employ to analyze and use EVM data 
to assess and monitor contract performance (See FAR 7.105(b)(10)). The 
FAR addresses the assessment and monitoring of performance; the ANSI 
standard does not address oversight and specific reporting.
    Comment: The commenter stated that adding levels of IBRs and Agency 
Head review will lengthen front-end planning and approval process 
timeliness.
    Response: The Councils acknowledge that pre-award IBR's, which are 
optional, could possibly lengthen the pre-award process. However, any 
such delays are expected to be offset by anticipated savings gained 
through improved management of the program. The coverage does not add 
any Agency Head reviews.
    Comment: A number of commenters state that the rule should clarify 
that EVMS applies to developmental efforts, not steady state or 
operational acquisitions, or for the procurement of commercial items.
    Response: The Councils agree that the application of EVMS should be 
clarified. The final rule has been revised in FAR 34.201(a) to require 
EVM for major acquisitions for development in accordance with OMB 
Circular A-11, Part 7. The Circular does not require the use of EVM for 
steady-state or operational acquisitions, or for the procurement of 
commercial items. However, an Agency or requiring activity may elect to 
require EVMS for other than development efforts based on the costs/
benefits involved.
    Comment: The commenter states that a $50 million threshold should 
be established for the application of EVMS for prime contracts. In 
addition, any small business awarded a prime contract that exceeds this 
threshold should be subject to the same EVMS requirements.

[[Page 38240]]

    Response: The Councils believe that the FAR should not establish 
EVMS thresholds. The final rule provides individual agencies the 
authority to establish appropriate thresholds for major acquisitions 
and EVMS applicability criteria in accordance with OMB Circular A-11, 
based on their particular facts and circumstances.
    Comment: The commenter states that EVMS requirements should not 
flow-down to subcontractors, regardless of dollar value. There is no 
privity of contract between the government and any subcontractor.
    Response: The Councils believe that EVMS requirements should apply 
to subcontracts when the cost/benefits support such application. 
However, the Councils also recognize that clarification of this 
requirement is necessary. As such, the rule has been revised to clarify 
language at FAR 52.234-4(g) and 34.201(d) to require application of 
EVMS to subcontractors using the same rules as applied to the prime 
contractor. The Councils note that the Government often requires 
contractors to flow certain clauses down to subcontractors. Such flow-
downs do not require privity of contract between the Government and the 
subcontractor, i.e., the flow-down requirement in the clause is between 
the Government and the contractor.
    Comment: The commenter recommends that EVMS thresholds should be 
indexed to inflation.
    Response: The Councils believe that it is preferable to provide 
individual agencies with the authority to establish appropriate 
thresholds for major acquisitions and EVMS applicability criteria in 
accordance with OMB Circular A-11 based on their particular facts and 
circumstances, rather than indexing the thresholds to inflation.
    Comment: The commenter stated that EVMS is not simple to implement. 
Small businesses may find it difficult and costly to implement EVMS. 
Flowing down EVMS requirements to several tiers of subcontractors 
compounds these difficulties.
    Response: The Councils believe that application of EVMS should be 
done only when the cost/benefits of such application is warranted. The 
Councils also recognize that some businesses may not have an 
operational EVMS when they submit their offer. As such, the language in 
FAR 34.201(b) has been revised to make it clear that offerors who do 
not have an operational EVMS shall not be disqualified from contract 
award if they submit an EVMS implementation plan with their proposals.
    Comment: The commenter submitted the following recommendations to 
mitigate the impact that EVMS requirements will have on small business:
     No validation on contracts less than $50M.
     No EVM on contracts less than $20M without authorization 
by agency's senior acquisition executive.
     Costs of complying with EVMS requirements should be 
directly chargeable to that contract.
    Response: The Councils believe it is preferable to provide 
individual agencies with the authority to establish appropriate 
thresholds for major acquisitions and EVMS applicability criteria in 
accordance with OMB Circular A-11, based on their particular facts and 
circumstances rather than specifying a threshold in the FAR. It is also 
not appropriate for the EVMS clause to specify whether the costs of 
complying with EVMS requirements should be a direct or indirect cost. 
The charging of costs as direct or indirect costs (including the cost 
of complying with EVMS requirements) is determined by the Cost 
Accounting Standards and/or the requirements of FAR Part 31. 
Furthermore, EVMS costs, like other costs, must meet the allowability 
criteria in FAR 31.201-2(a).
    Comment: The commenter stated that the flow-down requirements of 
EVMS to small business could have a negative effect. This commenter 
asserted that the statistical value in assessing the impact to small 
business is understated.
    Response: The Councils note that an Initial Regulatory Flexibility 
Analysis was performed and comments were solicited as to the effect of 
this rule on small business. Some comments were received that indicated 
that small businesses may be affected. Therefore, to alleviate the 
possible burden on small businesses that do not have an EVM system, the 
rule is revised to make it clear that offerors shall not be eliminated 
from consideration for contract award because they do not have an 
operational EVM system, provided they submit an EVMS implementation 
plan with their proposal. Likewise, agencies have the flexibility of 
paying for initial baseline reviews in accordance with agency 
procedures.
    Comment: The commenter recommended that the rule provide for an 
exception to allow the Government to manage the EVMS while the 
contractor is responsible for reporting status.
    Response: The Councils believe that management of the EVMS is the 
contractor's responsibility. The contractor is responsible for managing 
contract work. EVMS is one method used to manage that work.

Pre-award IBRs

    Comment: A number of commenters state that the pre-award IBR 
process may cause undue cost and manpower burdens on offerors and the 
Government, and could result in delay of award, excessive B&P costs, 
decreased competition, risks of technical leveling, increased protest 
potential and the necessity for a follow-up IBR after award.
    Response: Pre-award IBRs are not mandatory; however, if agencies 
determine that establishing a firm baseline prior to award is 
beneficial, the rule allows this flexibility. The Councils acknowledge 
that pre-award IBRs may increase B&P costs and source selection 
resources; however, EVM is designed to save money in the long run. 
Agencies have the flexibility of paying for pre-award IBRs within the 
source selection process. As with any source selection process, the 
Government must take all necessary steps to protect against disclosure 
of proprietary information or technical leveling during the proposal 
evaluation. The Government has flexibility for source-selection 
procedures as currently prescribed in FAR Subpart 15.3.
    Comment: A number of commenters expressed concern that a pre-award 
budget baseline may not add value to the source selection process since 
there is insufficient information to establish a technical or cost 
baseline and it is too difficult to properly assess risk prior to 
award.
    Response: The Councils believe that pre-award IBRs are designed to 
verify and establish the technical and cost baseline. If an Agency 
determines that a pre-award IBR is appropriate for that procurement, 
then the proposal should serve as a sufficient baseline to conduct an 
IBR prior to contract award.
    Comment: A number of commenters stated that the only reason to 
conduct a pre-award IBR for sole source acquisitions is to establish a 
performance measurement baseline (PMB). However, this PMB will not be 
valid because pre-award IBR budget values will change from the PMB 
after award, and the contractor will be reluctant to disclose 
management reserve before negotiations are concluded.
    Response: The Councils agree that the purpose of a pre-award IBR is 
to verify the technical content and the realism of the related 
performance budgets, resources and schedules. However, the Councils do 
not agree that such technical and cost baselines will

[[Page 38241]]

substantially change after award. A pre-award IBR will help to verify 
the realism of the proposal and therefore facilitate negotiations. 
Additionally, disclosure of cost information is subject to and 
available under the Truth in Negotiations Act (41 U.S.C. 254b and 10 
U.S.C. 2306a).
    Comment: The commenter states that performance of a pre-award IBR 
would fall under FAR Subpart 15.3 Source Selection. Specifically, pre-
award IBRs would fall under FAR 15.306(d), exchanges with offerors 
after establishment of the competitive range. The proposed rule does 
not refer to Part 15.
    Response: The Councils do not believe that it is necessary to 
address pre-award IBRs in FAR Part 15. However, FAR 7.105(b)(3) is 
revised to include source selection procedures when a pre-award IBR is 
contemplated. While a pre-award IBR is not mandated, when one will be 
performed, the acquisition plan should address how the IBR results will 
be considered in source selection.
    Comment: The commenter states that any company with an approved EVM 
System should not be subjected to a pre-award IBR. For those companies 
without an existing or approved EVMS, this should be considered as part 
of management risk of the source selection evaluation based on their 
proposed system implementation described in their proposal. It would be 
resource and schedule prohibitive to perform an IBR or sequential IBRs 
prior to award.
    Response: The Councils disagree. The determination that an 
offeror's EVM System is compliant with the ANSI/EAI - 748 standard is 
an independent assessment and is not related to the timing of an IBR. 
Pre-award IBRs are designed to verify and establish the technical and 
cost baseline. If an agency determines it is beneficial to establish 
the IBR prior to award, they have the flexibility to conduct an IBR. 
The language in FAR 34.201(b) has been revised to make it clear that 
offerors who do not have an operational EVMS shall not be disqualified 
from contract award if they submit an EVMS implementation plan with 
their proposals. In such case, a pre-award IBR would utilize data from 
the offeror's current cost/schedule control system.
    Comment: The commenter states that if the requirement for a pre-
award IBR is retained in the final rule, the requirement for a post-
award IBR should be deleted.
    Response: The Councils believe that the rule allows the flexibility 
for the timing and conduct of the IBR. Pre-award IBRs are not 
mandatory. An agency may choose to perform a post-award IBR.
    Comment: The commenter does not agree that ``IBRs will normally be 
scheduled before award'' as stated in 52.234-X3(c). In certain agency 
acquisitions, M&O contractors are responsible for design and planning 
activities necessary to establish the PMB, which must be in place prior 
to IBR. The commenter suggests a tiered approach for the performance of 
IBRs.
    Response: The Councils believe that the rule allows the flexibility 
for the timing and conduct of the IBR. Pre-award IBRs are not 
mandatory. An agency may choose to perform a post-award IBR. If an 
Agency determines that a pre-award IBR is appropriate for that 
procurement, then the proposal should serve as a sufficient baseline to 
conduct an IBR prior to contract award. The Councils do not believe a 
tiered approach is necessary or beneficial.
    Comment: The Commenter stated that the only way an independent 
baseline could exist prior to award would be if it were developed 
either privately or under a prior contract. Therefore, there is no need 
for provision 52.234-X2.
    Response: The Councils believe that the pre-award IBR provision is 
necessary. If an agency determines that establishing a firm baseline 
prior to award is beneficial, the rule allows the flexibility of 
requiring a pre-award IBR. The IBR is meant to verify the technical 
content and the realism of the related performance budgets, resources 
and schedules. FAR 52.234-X2 does not address an independent baseline, 
but rather an integrated baseline conducted as a joint effort between 
the offeror and the Government.
    Comment: A number of commenters stated that it often takes a number 
of weeks, after award, for the contractor to develop and refine their 
understanding of the project and their work plans so as to have the 
detailed information available necessary for a comprehensive IBR. If 
the ``first IBR'' is conducted prior to award ``there is little 
likelihood that the level of information available to the contractor 
will be sufficient to allow a meaningful IBR...''
    Response: The Councils believe that the technical proposal should 
reflect the offerors' understanding of the requirements at time of 
proposal submission. Thus the proposal should serve as a sufficient 
baseline to conduct an IBR prior to contract award.
    Comment: The commenter cautions that a pre-award IBR may undermine 
the normal source selection process of technical evaluation. The IBR 
should be considered as one aspect of the evaluation process. The IBR 
should be structured to guard against undermining an offeror's 
commitment or a contractor's obligation to perform-especially under a 
fixed-price, performance-based type arrangement.
    Response: The Councils believe that pre-award IBRs do not undermine 
the source selection process. Pre-award IBRs are not required; however, 
if performed, the pre-award IBR would be considered in the evaluation 
process. FAR 7.105(b)(3) has been added to address how the results of 
the pre-award IBR will be considered in the source selection.
    Comment: A number of commenters requested a revision to 52.234-
X2(d) to define the procedures for determining the competitive range 
and/or determining the number of offerors that remain in a competitive 
range prior to conducting a pre-award IBR.
    Response: The Councils do not believe that language is necessary to 
specify what constitutes the competitive range for the conducting of 
pre-award IBRs. Pre-award IBRs will be conducted in accordance with the 
source selection plan set forth for that acquisition.
    Comment: A number of commenters stated that the regulations should 
not encourage the imposition of pre-award IBRs on smaller acquisitions 
or those contractors with minimal EVMS experience.
    Response: Agencies have the authority to establish thresholds and 
EVMS applicability criteria. The Councils have agreed to revise the 
language in FAR 34.201(a) to make it clear that offerors who do not 
have an operational EVMS shall not be disqualified from contract award 
if they submit an EVMS implementation plan with their proposals.

Post-award IBRs

    Comment: The commenter noted that when a post-award IBR may be 
required, 34.X03 prescribes a solicitation provision (52.234-X1) that 
does not mention IBR.
    Response: The Councils agree that the proposed rule should be 
clarified to address the responder's concern. As a result, FAR 34.202 
in the final rule specifically states that when an EVMS is required, 
the Government will conduct an Integrated Baseline Review (IBR). No 
change to the provision at FAR 52.234-3 is therefore necessary since 
IBRs shall always be required when the post-award IBR language is in 
the contract in accordance with the clause at 52.234-4.
    Comment: The commenter recommended revising 52.234-X3(c) to state 
``If a pre-award IBR has not been conducted, such a review shall be 
scheduled [and initiated] as early as

[[Page 38242]]

practicable after contract award...'' since it is important to indicate 
that the IBR should commence during the allotted timeframe.
    Response: The Councils do not agree that the timing of post award 
IBRs should be specified in the FAR. The clause at FAR 52.234-4(c) has 
been revised to state that a post award IBR shall be conducted as early 
as practicable after contract award. Agencies have the flexibility to 
establish the timing and conduct of the post award IBRs.
    Comment: The commenter recommended that Post-award IBRs for options 
or major modifications should have a numerical threshold - 50% of prior 
contract value.
    Response: The Councils believe it is preferable to provide 
flexibility in regard to whether there is a change to the contract in 
terms of exercise of significant option(s) or incorporation of major 
modification(s), rather than applying a predetermined dollar or 
percentage threshold.
    Comment: The Commenter recommended changing the language in FAR 
52.234-X3 from ``not later than 180 days after award'' to ``in 
accordance with agency procedures.''
    Response: The Councils agree that the timing of post award IBRs 
should not be specified in the FAR. The clause at FAR 52.234-4(c) has 
been revised to state that a post award IBR shall be conducted as early 
as practicable after contract award. Agencies have the flexibility to 
establish the timing and conduct of the post award IBRs.
    Comment: A number of commenters requested clarification of 
34.X03(a) as to whether post-award IBRs are optional, ``may require'', 
while Paragraph (b) pre-award is less optional, ``will require''.
    Response: The Councils have revised the language at FAR 34.202 to 
explicitly state that an IBR is required regardless of whether it is 
performed pre-award or post-award. The requirement for the timing of an 
IBR will be determined by the agency.
    Comment: A number of commenters suggested the language at 52.234-
X3(c) be revised to change Agencies ``may conduct IBRs'' to ``shall 
conduct IBRs.''
    Response: The Councils agree that agencies are required to conduct 
the IBR's. As such, the Councils have revised the language at FAR 
52.234-4(c) to state that the Government ``will conduct an IBR.''

Modified IBRs

    Comment: A number of commenters recommend utilizing a tiered or 
modified IBR approach based on the size of the program, with smaller 
programs requiring only scaled back IBRs. Task order contracts and 
other contract types where scope is not well defined should be excluded 
from IBRs.
    Response: The Councils have provided that agencies have the 
flexibility to determine the application and extent of IBRs.

Reporting

    Comment: The commenter is concerned that FAR 42.1106, Reporting 
Requirements, will result in EVM reports without the EVM System 
requirement.
    Response: The Councils agree that the language should be revised to 
clarify the applicability of EVMS reporting. The language is moved to 
FAR 34.201(c), and revised to specifically state that contractors shall 
``submit EVMS reports monthly for those contracts for which an EVMS 
applies.''
    Comment: The commenter believes that EIA - 748 should govern 
reporting requirements, and any additional reporting requirements 
should require specific approval by the head of the contracting 
activity.
    Response: The Councils do not agree that reporting requirements 
outside of ANSI/EIA - 748, which does not mandate specific reports, 
formats, or timing, should be subject to mandatory head of contracting 
activity approval, but instead should be subject to Agency procedures.
    Comment: The commenter suggested that agencies should be required 
to submit written comments within 10 days of monthly reports or waive 
the right to require corrective action or to take adverse action. In 
addition, the commenter stated that variances of less than 10% should 
not be grounds for corrective action.
    Response: The Councils believe that time allotted for review will 
be determined on a case-by-case basis. Failure to respond does not 
equate to acceptance. The Councils further believe that variances 
should be subject to review based on the particular facts and 
circumstances rather than a specified minimum percentage.

EVMS Compliance, System Surveillance and Approval of Changes

    Comment: The commenter believes that third-party system 
certification or self assessment, as the basis for acceptance of an 
EVMS system, does not provide sufficient Government oversight.
    Response: The Councils note that regardless of who conducts the 
review, the Cognizant Federal Agency (CFA) is responsible for 
determining if a contractor's EVM system is compliant with the 
contractual requirements.
    Comment: The commenter believes that allowing contractors an 
unlimited amount of time to demonstrate compliance to the EVMS 
requirements is counterproductive. Demonstration of compliance should 
precede award fee determination or should happen within 90 days after 
award.
    Response: The Councils believe that EVMS compliance is related to 
the overall EVMS review and is not necessarily related to a contract 
award fee determination. The contractor should take the necessary 
actions to meet the negotiated milestones in their EVMS plan. Whether 
these milestones are tied to an award fee determination will be a 
subject for negotiation on an individual contract basis.
    Comment: The commenter suggested that in addition to specifying EIA 
Standard 748, the Government should require that the evaluation process 
be based on either the EMIR or the NADIA EVM Intent Guide.
    Response: The Councils believe that the FAR coverage is 
appropriate. Agencies have the flexibility to develop implementation 
procedures to meet their requirements.
    Comment: A number of commenters stated that EVMS oversight should 
be clarified. In general, EVMS oversight should be performed for the 
contractor's entire company or facility, surveillance should be 
performed jointly by the contractor and a single cognizant Federal 
Agent for all contracts, and that certification resources and 
procedures should be established.
    Response: The Councils agree that EVMS surveillance should be 
performed on a business segment basis rather than on a contract-by-
contract basis. Therefore, the Councils have provided in the final rule 
that the Cognizant Federal Agency (CFA) will determine if a 
contractor's EVMS is compliant with the guidelines in ANSI/EIA Standard 
- 748.
    Comment: A number of commenters questioned the effective date of 
the EVMS rule. One commenter questioned whether modification of 
existing contracts will be required to comply with the new FAR EVMS 
requirements. Another commenter suggested that the rule should provide 
a suitable phase-in for the EVMS requirements.
    Response: The Councils have determined that the rule will be 
implemented within the standard procedures and timing of the effective 
date after issuance of the final rule, and will apply the new coverage 
prospectively to new solicitations and future awards. Agencies may 
modify

[[Page 38243]]

existing contracts by mutual agreement on a case-by-case basis.
    Comment: The commenter states that the proposed rule uses the term 
``responsible Federal department or agency'' but does not provide a 
definition. The commenter requests that the rule be clarified to 
clearly delineate roles and responsibilities for approval and oversight 
of Contractor's EVMS.
    Response: The Councils have revised the language in the provisions 
at FAR 52.234-2 and 52.234-3, and clause at 52.234-4 to clarify that 
the Cognizant Federal Agency (CFA) (definition in FAR 2.101 and 42.003) 
is responsible for determining if a contractor's EVMS is compliant with 
the contractual requirements, i.e., the guidelines in ANSI/EIA Standard 
- 748.
    Comment: A number of commenters stated that the rule needed to be 
clarified regarding the use of the term ``recognized,'' i.e., which 
agency has cognizance, who within an agency is qualified, what 
constitutes a ``recognized'' system, what documentation is required to 
``recognize'', and is ``recognition'' by one agency binding on another 
agency[quest]
    Response: The Councils have clarified the rule by changing the term 
``recognize'' to ``determined to be in compliance with the ANSI/EIA 
Standard - 748.'' The Cognizant Federal Agency (CFA) will determine if 
a contractor's EVMS is compliant with the guidelines in ANSI/EIA 
Standard - 748 on a contractor business segment basis, not an 
individual contract basis.
    Comment: A number of commenters suggested that FAR 34.005-2(b)(6) 
be revised to change the terminology ``meets'' to ``complies with.''
    Response: The Councils agree with the recommendation and have 
revised the language in FAR 34.005-2(b)(6) to require the use of an EVM 
System that ``complies with'' the guidelines of ANSI/EIA Standard - 
748.
    Comment: The commenter suggested substituting the term ``EVMS 
criteria'' for ``EVMS guidelines''.
    Response: The Councils believe the use of the term ``EVMS 
Guidelines'' is more appropriate because that term is used in ANSI/EIA 
- 748.
    Comment: The commenter recommends that the proposed clause be 
revised to remove the requirements that the contractor obtain approval 
of proposed changes to their EVMS from the Government prior to 
implementation of the proposed change. The commenter recommends that 
surveillance be performed only every six months, after seven calendar 
days notice, and that changes to their EVMS be reviewed during those 
periodic reviews.
    Response: The Councils believe that the rule provides the necessary 
Government oversight of a contractor's EVMS, and that approval of 
changes, done on a case-by-case basis, should be obtained prior to 
their implementation in a contractor's EVMS, not as a retroactive 
action.
    Comment: A number of commenters have stated that the Government's 
access to records, including audit rights, are too broad. 52.234-X3 
requires the Contractor to provide access to: ``...all pertinent 
records and data... to permit Government surveillance to ensure that 
the EVMS conforms... with the performance criteria....'' The commenters 
request that this language be removed from the clause.
    Response: The Councils believe that governmental oversight for EVMS 
compliance is provided at FAR 52.234-4(f) and is necessary. Audit 
rights are provided via FAR 52.215-2, Audit and Records-Negotiation. 
FAR 52.234-4 does not expand upon these audit rights. If third party 
proprietary rights are marked with proper legends, the Government is 
prohibited from disclosure.

Training

    Comment: A number of commenters stated that sufficient training 
must be received by program managers and contracting officers. In 
addition, the numbers of program managers and contracting officers 
sufficiently trained will be significant.
    Response: The Councils recognize that the use of EVM will require 
resources and training. As such the Councils are working with Federal 
Acquisition Institute and Defense Acquisition University to provide 
EVMS training.

Miscellaneous Comments

    Comment: For construction of buildings and facilities, the 
commenter suggests revising FAR Part 7 to require that a notice to 
proceed should be contingent on approved EVMS WBS, approved S Curve 
Baseline, and schedule.
    Response: The Councils believe that the proposed revision is not 
appropriate for FAR Part 7 Acquisition Planning. If a contractor does 
not have an EVM system that complies with ANSI/EIA standard - 748, FAR 
52.234-4 requires the contractor to take necessary actions to meet the 
negotiated milestones in their EVMS plan. Whether these milestones are 
tied to the notice to proceed will be a subject for negotiation on an 
individual contract basis.
    Comment: The commenter refers to a sentence in the Background 
Section of the Federal Register notice of this proposed rule, noting 
that the intent of the Clinger-Cohen Act of 1996 was to include 
Construction of Building and Facilities, not just information systems.
    Response: The Councils believe that no change to the text is 
necessary because the proposed language addresses all types of capital 
investments, including construction of buildings.
    Comment: Some commenters suggest removing references to OMB 
Circular A-109 in FAR Part 34.000. No reason was provided.
    Response: The Councils believe that OMB Circular A-109 continues to 
apply. OMB Circular A-11, Part 7 supplements OMB Circular A-109, which 
has not been rescinded by OMB, and is still available. Therefore, a 
reference to OMB Circular A-11 has been added to FAR 34.000.
    Comment: The commenter suggested that the definition in Paragraph 
2.101 which states ``Earned value management system means a project 
management tool...'' implies that EVMS is a single tool and not a 
methodology that can successfully be accomplished with a variety of 
existing tools.
    Response: The Councils believe that the proposed language in the 
definition is consistent with the Capital Planning Guide and therefore 
should remain as stated.
    Comment: The commenter suggested including additional references to 
sites where authoritative guidance and policy on EVMS may be found.
    Response: The Councils do not believe that a change to the proposed 
language is appropriate. The Councils believe that implementing 
guidance and instructions provided by the agencies will be sufficient.
    Comment: A number of commenters recommended a public meeting prior 
to publication of a final rule, and/or a second proposed rule.
    Response: The Councils believe that based on comments received, no 
substantial changes were necessary in formation of the final rule. 
Therefore no public meeting is necessary, and it is appropriate to 
issue this final rule.
    Comment: For a joint venture, the commenter suggests that the joint 
venture should use a single, mutually agreed on EVMS. The commenter 
also suggests that for teaming arrangements, the prime contractor 
should be responsible for meeting the EVMS requirements.
    Response: The Councils believe that use of a single EVMS system is 
not, and should not be, required for prime

[[Page 38244]]

contractors and their subcontractors. Likewise, it is not appropriate 
to require a single EVMS for joint ventures or team members in a 
teaming agreement. While EVMS systems may differ, the reporting 
elements remain constant, and that is what's needed for management and 
oversight purposes.

Unrelated to the Proposed Rule

    Comment: The responder submitted a comment concerning an 
application for a Federal job.
    Response: The Councils believe the comment is not applicable to 
this rule.
    Summary of Changes. As a result of the comments, changes to the 
proposed rule include the following:
    1. FAR 7.105(b)(3) is revised to clarify source-selection 
procedures, related to the Acquisition Plan, when an agency decides to 
perform a pre-award Integrated Baseline Review (IBR).
    2. FAR 34.X01(a) is designated as 34.201(a) and is revised to 
require EVMS in major acquisitions for development and in other 
acquisitions in accordance with agency procedures.
    3. FAR 34.X02(a) is designated as 34.202(a)and is revised to 
clarify that an agency shall conduct an IBR when EVMS is required.
    4. FAR 34.X03 is designated as 34.203 and is revised to provide 
prescriptive language to clearly state pre-award and post-award EVMS 
IBR requirements.
    5. FAR 52.234-X1, 52.234-X2 and 52.234-X3 are designated as 52.234-
3, 52.234-2, and 52.234-4 respectively. The clause and provisions are 
clarified to provide that the Cognizant Federal Agency (CFA) is 
responsible for the approval and oversight of contractor's EVMS.
    6. FAR 34.X01(b) is designated as 34.201(b) and is revised to 
clearly state that offerors shall not be eliminated from consideration 
for contract award because they do not have an EVMS that is compliant 
with the ANSI/EIA standards, provided they submit an EVMS 
implementation plan with their proposal.
    7. The provisions at FAR 52.234-2(b)(4) and 52.234-3(b)(4) are 
revised to provide for negotiated milestones in offerors' EVMS plans 
that indicate when an offeror anticipates its EVMS system will be 
compliant.
    This is not a significant regulatory action and, therefore, was not 
subject to review under Section 6(b) of Executive Order 12866, 
Regulatory Planning and Review, dated September 30, 1993. This rule is 
not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804.

B. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 601, et seq., applies to 
this final rule. The Councils prepared a Final Regulatory Flexibility 
Analysis (FRFA), and it is summarized as follows:

Final Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisEarned Value Management Systems, 
(EVMS)

    This Final Regulatory Flexibility Analysis has been prepared 
consistent with 5 U.S.C. 604.
    1. Succinct statement of the need for, and the objectives of, 
the rule.
    Title V of the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act of 1994 
(FASA) requires agency heads to approve or define the cost, 
performance, and schedule goals for major acquisitions and achieve, 
on average, 90% of the cost, performance and schedule goals 
established. The Clinger-Cohen Act of 1996 requires the Director of 
OMB to develop, as part of the budget process, a process for 
analyzing, tracking, and evaluating the risks and results of all 
major capital investments for information systems for the life of 
the system. OMB Circular A-11, Part 7, Planning, Budgeting, 
Acquisition, and Management of Capital Assets and its supplement, 
Capital Programming Guide, were written to meet the requirements of 
FASA and the Clinger-Cohen Act. OMB Circular A-11, Part 7, sets 
forth the policy, budget justification, and reporting requirements 
that apply to all agencies of the Executive Branch of the government 
that are subject to Executive Branch review, for major capital 
acquisitions. The proposed FAR changes are necessary to implement 
Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS) requirements in OMB Circular 
A-11, Part 7, Planning, Budgeting, Acquisition, and Management of 
Capital Assets, and the supplement to Part 7, the Capital 
Programming Guide.
    2. Summary of the significant issues raised by the public 
comments in response to the Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis, 
a summary of the assessment of the agency of such issues, and a 
statement of any changes made in the proposed rule as a result of 
such comments.
    Some comments were received that indicated that small businesses 
were affected. The comments received covered the following issues: 
Many small businesses do not have compliant EVMS systems. It will 
cost them money to set up an EVMS, and if the small business is a 
subcontractor, it may cost the prime money to coordinate the EVMS 
systems. If the small business delays setting up an EVMS system 
until a desirable business opportunity occurs, the time delay may 
discourage contracting officers from selecting them as prime 
contractors, or discourage prime contractors from selecting them as 
subcontractors. It will cost money for a small business to perform a 
pre-award IBR; these would be part of the business's bid and 
proposal costs. It is harder on small businesses than large 
businesses to absorb bid and proposal costs on contracts they do not 
win.
    The assessment of these issues is as follows:
     The Councils anticipate that EVMS will be required 
mainly for development contracts above $20 million. The 
qualification of ``development'' was added to the final rule at 
34.201. The FAR could have made fewer contracts subject to EVMS by 
setting a Governmentwide threshold, and by setting it high. But this 
would be contrary to OMB's purpose in initiating the EVMS rule, 
which is to allow OMB flexibility to require EVMS when OMB feels the 
stricter budgetary discipline is necessary for a particular 
acquisition.
     Small businesses may avoid all EVMS costs by choosing 
not to participate in EVMS solicitations, or may offset such costs 
to implement a compliant EVM System through cost reimbursement on 
resulting Government contracts.
     EVMS system. The cost for a small business setting up 
an EVMS compliant system should be a one-time cost. No public 
commenter gave specifics about the actual costs. In adopting the 
industry standard, contractors are already moving to set up EVMS 
systems. The construction industry is familiar with the concept of 
EVMS. The IT industry is rapidly adapting this industry standard.
     The FAR rule provides that agencies should not 
eliminate a contractor's proposal because that business does not 
have a compliant EVMS. This was added to the final rule at 34.201.In 
such a case, agencies can offset costs for a small business to 
implement a compliant EVM System through the resulting contract. 
Agencies can also help by restricting flow-down of the EVMS clause 
only to certain named subcontractors.
     Pre-award IBR's. We anticipate un-reimbursed pre-award 
IBR's will be unusual. OMB wants the flexibility of having the pre-
award IBR tool available to agencies, and would be responsible for 
giving extra money to the agencies to pay for pre-award IBRs. 
Although the FAR is not forcing agencies to reimburse pre-award IBR 
costs either for large or small businesses; we anticipate agencies 
that want pre-award IBR's will pay for them, for example as 
separately funded cost reimbursement contracts. This was added to 
the final rule at 34.202. We also expect the agencies to reduce the 
number of proposals in the competitive range to avoid unnecessarily 
imposing costs on more than a few offerors. Small businesses may 
avoid these IBR costs entirely by choosing not to bid on 
solicitations with non-reimbursed pre-award IBR costs. Small 
businesses can partially recover un-reimbursed pre-award IBR costs 
by bidding only on cost-reimbursement contracts, which would allow 
the recovery as overhead on this and later contracts if the business 
wins these contracts.
     3. Description of and an estimate of the number of small 
entities to which the rule will apply.
    An analysis of data in the Federal Procurement Data System 
(FPDS) on actions and dollars on contracts above $20 million for 
supplies and equipments, IT services and construction, areas where 
EVMS is likely to be applied, indicated that small business only 
received 3.8 percent of the $36.8 billion and 5.8 percent of the 345 
actions. Because FPDS does not collect data on EVMS use, the data 
above is only an approximation of the effect on small business. 
These numbers

[[Page 38245]]

include more than just IT development contracts.
    4. Description of the projected reporting, recordkeeping and 
other compliance requirements of the rule, including an estimate of 
the classes of small entities which will be subject to the 
requirement and the type of professional skills necessary for 
preparation of the report or record.
    The net effect of the rule is unknown at this time. The rule is 
expected to have some effect on small business concerns that do not 
have EVM systems. The final rule only affects those small businesses 
that receive a contract designated as a major acquisition. To 
alleviate burden on those small businesses that do not have an EVM 
system, the rule was revised to make it clear that offerors shall 
not be eliminated from consideration for contract award because they 
do not have an operational EVMS, provided they submit an EVMS 
implementation plan with their proposal.Other compliance 
requirements of the rule are covered in paragraph 2.
     5. Description of the steps the agency has taken to minimize 
the significant economic impact on small entities consistent with 
the stated objectives of applicable statutes, including a statement 
of the factual, policy, and legal reasons for selecting the 
alternative adopted in the final rule and why each one of the other 
significant alternatives to the rule considered by the agency which 
affect the impact on small entities was rejected.
    The FAR rule provides that agencies should not eliminate a 
contractor's proposal because of that business not having a 
compliant EVMS. This was added to the final rule at 34.201. Agencies 
can also help by restricting flow-down of the EVMS clause only to 
certain named subcontractors. Agencies can reimburse pre-award IBR 
costs if OMB requires them and furnishes the money for them. Other 
alternatives suggested by public commenters were discussed in the 
preamble, such as having a Governmentwide threshold of $50,000,000. 
This alternative is not feasible as the purpose of the EVMS rule is 
to give OMB the tool to require stricter budgetary discipline where 
it sees fit, even in a lower dollar contract. Alternatives of 
excluding small businesses entirely from EVMS, or to give them a 
lower threshold Governmentwide, will not meet the purpose of the 
rule.
    Interested parties may obtain a copy of the FRFA from the FAR 
Secretariat. The FAR Secretariat has submitted a copy of the FRFA to 
the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration.

C. Paperwork Reduction Act

    The Paperwork Reduction Act does not apply because the changes to 
the FAR do not impose information collection requirements that require 
the approval of the Office of Management and Budget under 44 U.S.C. 
3501, et seq.

List of Subjects in 48 CFR Parts 2, 7, 34, and 52

    Government procurement.

    Dated: June 28, 2006
Ralph De Stefano,
Director,Contract Policy Division.

0
Therefore, DoD, GSA, and NASA amend 48 CFR parts 2, 7, 34, and 52 as 
set forth below:
0
1. The authority citation for 48 CFR parts 2, 7, 34, and 52 are revised 
to read as follows:

    Authority:  40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. chapter 137; and 42 
U.S.C. 2473(c).

PART 2--DEFINITIONS OF WORDS AND TERMS

0
2. Amend section 2.101 in paragraph (b) by adding, in alphabetical 
order, the definition ``Earned value management system'' to read as 
follows:


2.101  Definitions.

* * * * *
     (b) * * *
    Earned value management system means a project management tool that 
effectively integrates the project scope of work with cost, schedule 
and performance elements for optimum project planning and control. The 
qualities and operating characteristics of an earned value management 
system are described in American National Standards Institute/
Electronics Industries Alliance (ANSI/EIA) Standard-748, Earned Value 
Management Systems. (See OMB Circular A-11, Part 7.)
* * * * *

PART 7--ACQUISITION PLANS

0
3. Amend section 7.105 by revising paragraph (b)(3) and amending 
paragraph (b)(10) by adding two sentences to read as follows:


7.105  Contents of written acquisition plans.

* * * * *
     (b) * * *
    (3) Source-selection procedures. Discuss the source-selection 
procedures for the acquisition, including the timing for submission and 
evaluation of proposals, and the relationship of evaluation factors to 
the attainment of the acquisition objectives (see Subpart 15.3). When 
an EVMS is required (see FAR 34.202(a)) and a pre-award IBR is 
contemplated, the acquisition plan must discuss--
     (i) How the pre-award IBR will be considered in the source 
selection decision;
     (ii) How it will be conducted in the source selection process (see 
FAR 15.306); and
     (iii) Whether offerors will be directly compensated for the costs 
of participating in a pre-award IBR.
* * * * *
    (10) * * * If an Earned Value Management System is to be used, 
discuss the methodology the Government will employ to analyze and use 
the earned value data to assess and monitor contract performance. In 
addition, discuss how the offeror's/contractor's EVMS will be verified 
for compliance with the American National Standards Institute/
Electronics Industries Alliance (ANSI/EIA) Standard-748, Earned Value 
Management Systems, and the timing and conduct of integrated baseline 
reviews (whether prior to or post award). (See 34.202.)
* * * * *

PART 34--MAJOR SYSTEM ACQUISITION

0
4. Revise section 34.000 to read as follows:


34.000  Scope of part.

    This part describes acquisition policies and procedures for use in 
acquiring major systems consistent with OMB Circular No. A-109; and the 
use of an Earned Value Management System in acquisitions designated as 
major acquisitions consistent with OMB Circular A-11, Part 7.
0
5. Amend section 34.005-2 by adding paragraph (b)(6) to read as 
follows:


34.005-2  Mission-oriented solicitation.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (6) Require the use of an Earned Value Management System that 
complies with the guidelines of ANSI/EIA Standard-748 (current version 
at time of solicitation). See 34.201 for earned value management 
systems and reporting requirements.
* * * * *
0
6. Add subpart 34.2 to read as follows:

Subpart 34.2--Earned Value Management System

Sec.
34.201 Policy.
34.202 Integrated Baseline Reviews.
34.203 Solicitation provisions and contract clause.


34.201  Policy.

    (a) An Earned Value Management System (EVMS) is required for major 
acquisitions for development, in accordance with OMB Circular A-11. The 
Government may also require an EVMS for other acquisitions, in 
accordance with agency procedures.

[[Page 38246]]

    (b) If the offeror proposes to use a system that has not been 
determined to be in compliance with the American National Standards 
Institute/Electronics Industries Alliance (ANSI/EIA) Standard-748, 
Earned Value Management Systems, the offeror shall submit a 
comprehensive plan for compliance with these EVMS standards. Offerors 
shall not be eliminated from consideration for contract award because 
they do not have an EVMS that complies with these standards.
    (c) As a minimum, contracting officers shall require contractors to 
submit EVMS monthly reports for those contracts for which an EVMS 
applies.
    (d) EVMS requirements will be applied to subcontractors using the 
same rules as applied to the prime contractor.
    (e) When an offeror is required to provide an EVMS plan as part of 
its proposal, the contracting officer will determine the adequacy of 
the proposed EVMS plan prior to contract award.


34.202  Integrated Baseline Reviews.

    (a) When an EVMS is required, the Government will conduct an 
Integrated Baseline Review (IBR).
    (b) The purpose of the IBR is to verify the technical content and 
the realism of the related performance budgets, resources, and 
schedules. It should provide a mutual understanding of the inherent 
risks in offerors'/contractors' performance plans and the underlying 
management control systems, and it should formulate a plan to handle 
these risks.
    (c) The IBR is a joint assessment by the offeror or contractor, and 
the Government, of the--
    (1) Ability of the project's technical plan to achieve the 
objectives of the scope of work;
    (2) Adequacy of the time allocated for performing the defined tasks 
to successfully achieve the project schedule objectives;
    (3) Ability of the Performance Measurement Baseline (PMB) to 
successfully execute the project and attain cost objectives, 
recognizing the relationship between budget resources, funding, 
schedule, and scope of work;
    (4) Availability of personnel, facilities, and equipment when 
required, to perform the defined tasks needed to execute the program 
successfully; and
    (5) The degree to which the management process provides effective 
and integrated technical/schedule/cost planning and baseline control.
    (d) The timing and conduct of the IBR shall be in accordance with 
agency procedures. If a pre-award IBR will be conducted, the 
solicitation must include the procedures for conducting the IBR and 
address whether offerors will be reimbursed for the associated costs. 
If permitted, reimbursement of offerors' pre-award IBR costs is 
governed by the provisions of FAR Part 31.


34.203  Solicitation provisions and contract clause.

    (a) The contracting officer shall insert a provision that is 
substantially the same as the provision at FAR 52.234-2, Notice of 
Earned Value Management System - Pre-Award IBR, in solicitations for 
contracts that require the contractor to use an Earned Value Management 
System (EVMS) and for which the Government requires an Integrated 
Baseline Review (IBR) prior to award.
    (b) The contracting officer shall insert a provision that is 
substantially the same as the provision at 52.234-3, Notice of Earned 
Value Management System - Post Award IBR, in solicitations for 
contracts that require the contractor to use an Earned Value Management 
System (EVMS) and for which the Government requires an Integrated 
Baseline Review (IBR) after contract award.
    (c) The contracting officer shall insert a clause that is 
substantially the same as the clause at FAR 52.234-4, Earned Value 
Management System, in solicitations and contracts that require a 
contractor to use an EVMS.

PART 52--SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND CONTRACT CLAUSES

0
7. Add sections 52.234-2, 52.234-3, and 52.234-4 to read as follows:


52.234-2  Notice of Earned Value Management System -Pre-Award IBR.

    As prescribed in 34.203(a) use the following provision:
    NOTICE OF EARNED VALUE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - PRE-AWARD IBR (JUl 
2006)
    (a) The offeror shall provide documentation that the Cognizant 
Federal Agency has determined that the proposed earned value management 
system (EVMS) complies with the EVMS guidelines in ANSI/EIA Standard - 
748 (current version at time of solicitation).
    (b) If the offeror proposes to use a system that has not been 
determined to be in compliance with the requirements of paragraph (a) 
of this provision, the offeror shall submit a comprehensive plan for 
compliance with the EVMS guidelines.
    (1) The plan shall--
    (i) Describe the EVMS the offeror intends to use in performance of 
the contracts;
    (ii) Distinguish between the offeror's existing management system 
and modifications proposed to meet the guidelines;
    (iii) Describe the management system and its application in terms 
of the EVMS guidelines;
    (iv) Describe the proposed procedure for administration of the 
guidelines, as applied to subcontractors; and
    (v) Provide documentation describing the process and results of any 
third-party or self-evaluation of the system's compliance with the EVMS 
guidelines.
    (2) The offeror shall provide information and assistance as 
required by the Contracting Officer to support review of the plan.
    (3) The Government will review and approve the offeror's plan for 
an EVMS before contract award.
    (4) The offeror's EVMS plan must provide milestones that indicate 
when the offeror anticipates that the EVM system will be compliant with 
the ANSI/EIA Standard - 748 guidelines.
    (c) Offerors shall identify the major subcontractors, or major 
subcontracted effort if major subcontractors have not been selected 
subject to the guidelines. The prime Contractor and the Government 
shall agree to subcontractors selected for application of the EVMS 
guidelines.
    (d) The Government will conduct an Integrated Baseline Review 
(IBR), as designated by the agency, prior to contract award. The 
objective of the IBR is for the Government and the Contractor to 
jointly assess technical areas, such as the Contractor's planning, to 
ensure complete coverage of the contract requirements, logical 
scheduling of the work activities, adequate resources, methodologies 
for earned value (budgeted cost for work performed (BCWP)), and 
identification of inherent risks.
    (End of provision)


52.234-3  Notice of Earned Value Management System - Post Award IBR.

     As prescribed in 34.203(b) use the following provision:
    NOTICE OF EARNED VALUE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM -POST AWARD IBR (JUl 
2006)
    (a) The offeror shall provide documentation that the Cognizant 
Federal Agency has determined that the proposed earned value management 
system (EVMS) complies with the EVMS guidelines in ANSI/EIA Standard -
748 (current version at time of solicitation).
    (b) If the offeror proposes to use a system that has not been 
determined to be in compliance with the requirements of paragraph (a) 
of this provision, the

[[Page 38247]]

offeror shall submit a comprehensive plan for compliance with the EVMS 
guidelines.
    (1) The plan shall--
    (i) Describe the EVMS the offeror intends to use in performance of 
the contracts;
    (ii) Distinguish between the offeror's existing management system 
and modifications proposed to meet the guidelines;
    (iii) Describe the management system and its application in terms 
of the EVMS guidelines;
    (iv) Describe the proposed procedure for administration of the 
guidelines, as applied to subcontractors; and
    (v) Provide documentation describing the process and results of any 
third-party or self-evaluation of the system's compliance with the EVMS 
guidelines.
    (2) The offeror shall provide information and assistance as 
required by the Contracting Officer to support review of the plan.
    (3) The Government will review and approve the offeror's plan for 
an EVMS before contract award.
    (4) The offeror's EVMS plan must provide milestones that indicate 
when the offeror anticipates that the EVM system will be compliant with 
the ANSI/EIA Standard -748 guidelines.
    (c) Offerors shall identify the major subcontractors, or major 
subcontracted effort if major subcontractors have not been selected, 
planned for application of the guidelines. The prime Contractor and the 
Government shall agree to subcontractors selected for application of 
the EVMS guidelines.
    (End of provision)


52.234-4  Earned Value Management System.

    As prescribed in 34.203(c), insert the following clause:
    EARNED VALUE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (JUl 2006)
    (a) The Contractor shall use an earned value management system 
(EVMS) that has been determined by the Cognizant Federal Agency (CFA) 
to be compliant with the guidelines in ANSI/EIA Standard - 748 (current 
version at the time of award) to manage this contract. If the 
Contractor's current EVMS has not been determined compliant at the time 
of award, see paragraph (b) of this clause. The Contractor shall submit 
reports in accordance with the requirements of this contract.
    (b) If, at the time of award, the Contractor's EVM System has not 
been determined by the CFA as complying with EVMS guidelines or the 
Contractor does not have an existing cost/schedule control system that 
is compliant with the guidelines in ANSI/EIA Standard - 748 (current 
version at time of award), the Contractor shall--
    (1) Apply the current system to the contract; and
    (2) Take necessary actions to meet the milestones in the 
Contractor's EVMS plan approved by the Contracting Officer.
    (c) The Government will conduct an Integrated Baseline Review 
(IBR). If a pre-award IBR has not been conducted, a post award IBR 
shall be conducted as early as practicable after contract award.
    (d) The Contracting Officer may require an IBR at--
    (1) Exercise of significant options; or
    (2) Incorporation of major modifications.
    (e) Unless a waiver is granted by the CFA, Contractor proposed EVMS 
changes require approval of the CFA prior to implementation. The CFA 
will advise the Contractor of the acceptability of such changes within 
30 calendar days after receipt of the notice of proposed changes from 
the Contractor. If the advance approval requirements are waived by the 
CFA, the Contractor shall disclose EVMS changes to the CFA at least 14 
calendar days prior to the effective date of implementation.
    (f) The Contractor shall provide access to all pertinent records 
and data requested by the Contracting Officer or a duly authorized 
representative as necessary to permit Government surveillance to ensure 
that the EVMS conforms, and continues to conform, with the performance 
criteria referenced in paragraph (a) of this clause.
    (g) The Contractor shall require the subcontractors specified below 
to comply with the requirements of this clause: [Insert list of 
applicable subcontractors.]
    --------------------
    --------------------
    --------------------
    (End of clause)
[FR Doc. 06-5966 Filed 7-3-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-EP-S