Using the Simplified Acquisition of Base Engineer Requirements in Construction Projects: Contract Administration Guidelines

Abstract

The US Air Force (USAF) introduced the Simplified Acquisition of Base Engineer Requirements (SABER) contract to fast-track the time required for both the engineering design and the acquisition process mainly associated with USAF’s maintenance and repair work projects. SABER has gained popularity within military/public projects, thus inspiring other similar contracting approaches in the private sector. The goal of this paper is to present contractual guidelines for contractors working under SABER contracts. The authors utilized an interdependent research methodology that comprised (1) conducting desktop analysis of SABER’s acquisition conditions, (2) investigating SABER-based case studies (i.e., reviewing project solicitations and examining pertinent disputes), and (3) soliciting opinions and insights of an experts’ panel with more than 150 years of collective experience in military/public projects. Ultimately, this paper (1) provides better understanding of the steps required for initiating and working under SABER’s delivery orders (DOs) process, (2) assesses the advantages and disadvantages of the SABER contracting mechanism, and (3) develops a checklist to better support usage and administration of SABER contracts. It is perceived that this study could result in more honed and strengthened contract administration practices for SABER’s utilization in both military/public and private sector applications.