When should contracted support be avoided, according to the guidelines?

Contracted support should be avoided when personal services are required. This is because personal services are inherently tied to the skill, expertise, and personal attributes of the individual performing the work. If contracted support is pursued in these circumstances, it can create legal and regulatory complications, as such services may imply an employer-employee relationship, which contradicts the nature of a contractor's independent status.

The guidelines specify that personal services generally require government employees due to their close integration with government functions and the necessity for direct control and oversight. Therefore, opting for contracted support in these situations can lead to misunderstandings about the relationship, compliance issues with labor laws, and potential liability for the government.

In contrast, purchasing standard civilian equipment, requiring rapid support, or facing limited market competition can be suitable scenarios for contracted support under specific guidelines. The first option might apply when the goods can be obtained directly from standard suppliers without the need for extensive contractual oversight. Rapid support might necessitate a swift acquisition process that could utilize existing contracts, and limited market competition does not automatically negate the use of contractors but generally requires justification for the procurement approach chosen.