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Audit of the U.S. Ability One Commission’s Quality of Products in Support of Meeting Government Requirements

Report Information

Date Issued
Report Number
2021-04
Report Type
Audit
Description
The objective of the audit was to assess the reliability, validity, and relevance of the quality control process employed by the Central Nonprofit Agencies (CNAs) and Nonprofit Agencies (NPAs) to correct product deficiencies prior to delivery.
Joint Report
Yes
Participating OIG
U.S. AbilityOne Commission OIG
Agency Wide
Yes (agency-wide)
Questioned Costs
$0
Funds for Better Use
$0
View report on Oversight.gov

Recommendations

Develop and implement written procedures that provide Commission requirements and guidelines to CNAs regarding quality control processes they have established to oversee and assist NPAs to ensure successful contract performance and compliance in furnishing a product to the Government. This should include all key elements (e.g., assessment and tracking of quality complaints, types of technical assistance provided to NPAs, documentation requirements, and frequency of interactions with NPAs) and ensure data provided to the Commission is comparable and sufficient to inform their decision-making.

The Commission should determine and develop written documentation of criteria/metrics, data needed from all stakeholders (i.e., NPAs, CNAs, and Federal customers), reporting tools and/or mechanisms, and procedures needed to monitor, evaluate, and assess NPA compliance withcontract performance requirements including strict adherence to quality standards. This should include documentation of this evaluation and assessment of NPA compliance in PLIMS.

Update the Commission’s compliance policies to incorporate all key elements in the AbilityOne and FAR regulations regarding contract performance which includes product quality. Further, add procedural guidance, including documentation requirements, that is complete and sufficient to implement the policies. Key elements include the following: a. NPA quality systems in place to furnish products that meet Government specificationsunder the contract and correct product deficiencies prior to delivery;b. Reporting of quality complaints including handling of inquiries and disputes; andc. Monitoring and evaluation of NPA compliance with these requirements.