What is the primary responsibility of a Contracting Officer (CO) during the award step?

The primary responsibility of a Contracting Officer (CO) during the award step is to issue an executed contract that is signed by all parties involved. This is a critical function of the CO as it formalizes the agreement between the government and the contractor, ensuring that all terms, conditions, and obligations are clearly defined and legally binding. The execution of the contract is a pivotal milestone in the procurement process, allowing the project to move forward with the agreed-upon terms. Only after the contract is fully executed can the work commence, and funds can be obligated.

While the other options involve important aspects of contract management, they do not directly pertain to the core responsibility of the CO in the award process. Delegating tasks, notifying stakeholders, and reviewing performance evaluations occur at different stages of contract management and pertain more to the operational oversight and administration roles rather than the formal awarding of the contract itself. Thus, issuing the executed contract is the fundamental responsibility of the CO at this critical juncture.