Budget
It is usually best to order all equipment at the start of the project if possible to avoid implementation delays or end-of-year purchasing frenzy. However, you may be restricted by the amount of money that is available each year, or by the amount that is approved for a particular piece of equipment. Ensure the purchasing officer is aware of any constraints so you can avoid expensive mistakes.
Donor Regulations
The donor might place geographic restrictions on where you can buy the goods or where the goods are manufactured. They may also require you to seek approval before you can purchase an item. Make sure that the purchasing officer has a copy of the Award Agreement and knows the rules for your project. A USG Resource Management Regulations Matrix is included on the CD ROM.
Purchase Other Materials and Services Some materials and services are not processed by the Purchasing Department; check with your Country Program for specific exceptions, but they may include the following:
• Consulting contracts (unless subject to competitive bidding)—refer to the CRS Policy on
Consultants (Independent Contractors); and Travel—air travel between continents requires a local approval waiver after price • comparison with the CRS travel agency. Refer to the CRS Policy on Travel.
PLAN FOR PAYROLL COSTS
ayroll should run smoothly and efficiently. Problems can be avoided if you carefully read the P Award Agreement, understand donor requirements, as well as CRS policies, and apply these in your detailed implementation planning process. Table 5.8 summarizes some common problems.
PROPACK II CHAPTER V SECTION 3 157