Which quality assurance system does the Government use as a substitute for Government inspection and testing before accepting commercial items?

The contractor's quality assurance systems are established as a primary mechanism for ensuring that commercial items meet the necessary quality standards before they are accepted by the Government. Under this framework, the Government relies on the contractor's quality control practices, certifications, and processes to ensure compliance with specified requirements. This approach is particularly beneficial in streamlining the acceptance process, reducing the need for extensive Government inspections and testing.

By depending on the contractor’s own quality assurance mechanisms, the Government can save time and resources while still maintaining oversight through the established contractual obligations. The effectiveness of this system hinges on the contractor's adherence to quality practices and the ability to demonstrate their capability in producing goods that meet the required standards.

This reliance on the contractor's systems is contrasted with options such as the Government's inspection system, which would involve more direct oversight and require additional resources, and third-party inspection services, which may not be utilized as frequently in this context. Project manager assessments, though valuable for managing projects, are not primarily intended as a quality assurance measure in the same capacity as the contractor's quality systems. Thus, the contractor's quality assurance systems effectively serve the intended purpose within the framework of quality management for commercial items.