When should someone function as a Project Manager (PM) instead of a Contracting Officer Representative (COR)?

To determine when someone should function as a Project Manager rather than a Contracting Officer Representative, it is crucial to understand the roles and responsibilities associated with each position. A delegation letter serves as formal documentation that outlines the authority and responsibilities assigned to a specific individual—in this case, assigning someone as a Project Manager. This letter typically delineates the decision-making powers that are granted, ensuring clarity in leadership and accountability in project management.

In scenarios where a delegation letter is present, it signifies that the individual has been officially entrusted with the overarching responsibility for project outcomes. This means the individual is expected to take on a more strategic and holistic view of the project, which aligns with the responsibilities of a Project Manager. This role often involves integrating various components of project execution, overseeing resource management, stakeholder communication, and overall project alignment with organizational goals.

The other options point to responsibilities that fall more directly under the role of a COR, such as managing contract execution, monitoring contractor performance, or being part of an integrated product team. While these tasks are essential, they are generally more tactical and focused on ensuring compliance with the contract rather than the strategic oversight required of a Project Manager. Thus, the presence of a delegation letter is critical in clarifying when a person should transition from