What can be a consequence of poor record-keeping by the COR?

Poor record-keeping by the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) can lead to financial discrepancies, which can significantly impact the management of contracts. When records are not meticulously maintained, it becomes challenging to track expenditures, contractor performance, and adherence to contract terms. This lack of accurate documentation can result in errors in billing, misunderstandings regarding payment schedules, or even unauthorized expenses.

Without reliable records, the COR may struggle to verify that the contractor is delivering as agreed or that payments are warranted. This situation could mask issues such as overpayments or unaccounted expenses that could ultimately strain the budget and diminish project resources. Financial discrepancies can erode trust between the agency and the contractor and may lead to disputes that can consume time and resources to resolve.

When looking at the other options, improved contractor relationships and effective performance evaluation rely heavily on clear and accurate communication. Without proper records, these relationships may suffer instead of improving. Similarly, reduced contract duration is not inherently linked to record-keeping; rather, it focuses more on performance or strategic requirements. Thus, highlighting the importance of accurate documentation emphasizes how integral record-keeping is for financial integrity and successful contract management.