An Empirical Study of the Social Network of the Contracting Officer's Representative

Abstract

The overall purpose of this study is to conduct an in-depth analysis of the influence that the social network of the contracting officer's representatives (CORs) has on service contract oversight. The specific objective of this research project is to build on the understanding of the acquisition of services developed in prior research projects while focusing on an area neglected during these studies, the COR. In this study, a total of three social networks, spread across two military installations, were examined. Additionally, data was collected from interviews with members of each social network. This study serves as a pilot for future research to be conducted on CORs and their social networks. The findings of this research suggest that a relationship exists between certain attributes of the CORs social networks and their surveillance of the contractor and the service contract. This study also provides some recommendations for procurement contracting officers (PCOs) to consider when they select an individual to serve as a COR for a service contract.