- FAR Subpart 34.0, which previously outlined the general requirements for major systems acquisitions, was not retained in the revised regulations. This is significant as this subpart contained regulations mandating the promotion of full and open competition in major systems acquisitions. The revised regulations omit any reference to competition. However, as the overhaul progresses, additional clarity is expected, particularly since FAR Subpart 6.1 addresses competition requirements generally.
- FAR Subpart 34.2, which addresses requirements for Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), remains in the revised regulations but with notable changes. Previously, EVMS was required for major development acquisitions, and agencies exercised discretion to apply EVMS requirements to other acquisitions. That discretionary option has been removed in the revised FAR 34.201. Additionally, FAR 34.201 no longer requires contractors to submit an EVMS compliance plan if their proposed system does not conform to the Electronic Industries Alliance Standard 748 (EIA-748). Finally, the revised FAR 34.202 significantly pares back guidance on Integrated Baseline Review (IBR), now stating only that an IBR is required when EVMS is mandated.
