Description
Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS)
This is an Air Force system for major acquisition programs above $5 million that was designed for a low volume of transactions and extensive performance measurement categories. It is a manual system kept in files at Air Force Product Centers which provides strong support to the source selection process by communicating contractor strengths and weaknesses. It involves a periodic assessment by government officials responsible for the overall program; uses contractor data; and is updated every 12 months. It may also provide out-of-cycle reports. It provides relative performance feedback to contractors across all measurements. The measurement factors include: product/system performance, including system engineering and software development; schedule; cost performance; product assurance; test and evaluation; ILS program; management responsiveness, and subcontract management.
Each report includes a description of the program, a statement describing the contractor's effort, a narrative that addresses the performance of the contractor during the period, and a rating for each of the evaluation areas listed above using four color codes--red,yellow,green and blue. Performance appraisals are provided to contractors for their review and comment, and then reviewed by the Government evaluator who may adjust the initial appraisal. Completed reports are identified as "Source Selection Information" and filed in libraries maintained by AFMC organizations that initiate the assessment report. Information is retrieved for use in source selection decisions by contacting the cognizant CPARS focal point.
Some initial action has been taken to automate the CPARS process utilizing Lotus Notes as well as to extend coverage to small systems, services, science and technology, and operational contracting.
CPARS very consistently performs its intended purpose as reports are based on firsthand data, validated by contractors, and controlled by program offices.