CENTRAL CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION DATABASE "The Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) is being amended to require all contractors who provide goods/services to the Department of Defense (DoD) to be registered in a Central Contractor Registration Database by 31 March 1998." This registration will be a condition of award. Therefore, if a contractor is not registered in the database by 31 March 1998, he will not be eligible for award of any DoD contract. What is the CCR? What are it's benefits? Why do I have to register with CCR? What happens if I don't register before 31 March 1998? These and other frequently asked questions are answered through the Internet at the following site: http://www.acq.osd.mil/ec/faqs The site for registering in the CCR via the Internet is: http://ccr.edi.disa.mil In addition, an "EZ Registration Workbook for Suppliers" is provided at the same site. This workbook is "designed to assist firms in registering with the Government's CCR system. It is a guide to assembling all the required information and filling out the Basic Registration (OMB Form 0704-0400)." It is definitely worth downloading the workbook to determine the information needed for registering and how to complete the registration process. If you do not have Internet access and want to register with a paper form you should contact the CCR Registration Assistance Center at 1-888-227-2423, customer service, and request the registration form and assistance packet for your completion. Remember, you cannot be awarded a DoD contract after 31 March 1998 if you are not registered in the CCR." I realize that there are serious concerns relating to the implementation of the CCR. Most of these concerns have been addressed by the Ad Hoc committee. Problems relating to acquisition lead time increases, due to the requirement for contracting officer verification, will have to be worked out in-house. Apparently, once the Standard Procurement System (SPS) is on-line, there is supposed to be a direct link into the CCR database. Until then, verification can be obtained by phone or through Internet access. This should not dramatically increase the ALT. It is suggested that all contracting personnel be familiar with the Internet access sites cited in the above contractor release. The information that is provided will alleviate most of their concerns. I am committed to achieving a paperless environment by the year 2000. This database is one system that will aid in achieving this goal. By requesting our contractors to register before the mandatory date, we will be increasing the chances of success. Once again, many thanks for all your support. /s/ electronically GARY A. TULL

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