Agency Secure Image and Storage. Tracking (ASIST) System is the Agency's official electronic repository for all Acquisition & Assistance (A&A) award documentation. A&A staff must file all documentation relating to an award, from pre-solicitation through close out, in ASIST. AORs must also maintain their award administration files in ASIST. The requirements and procedures for filing award documents in ASIST, as well as standards for file documentation by award type are available internally at xxxxx://xxxxx.xxxxx.xxx/M/OAA/assistance-resources. The ASIST guidelines also contain guidance for maintaining older awards in the paper-based format. The AO must document the negotiation process for a new assistance award or an amendment of an existing award, along with other pre-award determinations in a Memorandum of Negotiation. The Memorandum of Negotiations must be included in the award file together with all applicable supporting documentation. ADS 511, Essential Records Program requires that all essential records also be maintained in hard copy format. Most assistance awards will not meet the requirements of essential records. If the cognizant B/IO or Mission identifies the award as an essential record, in accordance with the procedures and criteria in ADS 511, AOs and AORs must also maintain the award and AOR files in hard copy. The Agency’s Essential Records Program is managed by the Bureau for Management, Office of Management Services, Information and Records Division (M/MS/IRD). 303.3.13 The Award Process and Elements of an Award Effective Date: 12/23/2019 Before making an award, the AO must ensure that: ● The program description clearly identifies the purpose of the program, contains an implementation plan that specifically identifies each element of the program, and specifies the duration of the assistance instrument. ● All elements of the award – including items in the schedule such as period of performance, award amount, place of performance, and program description – clearly and coherently express the specific understandings of both parties. ● The Branding Strategy and Marking Plan meet regulatory and USAID policy requirements. If the Administrator has provided a written determination for use of an additional or substitute logo or seal and tagline representing a presidential initiative or other high level interagency federal initiative, the AO must identify the alternate branding to be used in the award (see 2 CFR 700.16 or, for non-U.S. organizations, see the provision e...
