The "Implementation and Readiness Guide for the OMB Uniform Guidance," prepared by the Council on Governmental Relations (COGR) in December 2014, addresses the transition to the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (commonly known as the OMB Uniform Guidance or 2 CFR Part 200). The document was produced in response to the major overhaul and consolidation of multiple federal grant regulations into a single, streamlined set of requirements, effective December 26, 2014. The guide’s objective is to assist research institutions and other organizations in interpreting, preparing for, and implementing the new requirements, with particular attention to changes impacting costing policies, administrative procedures, and institutional compliance with federal funding.
The guide provides a comprehensive overview of the new regulations, clarifying key definitions, outlining significant revisions in cost principles, and highlighting administrative changes. It delves into implementation strategies, best practices, and questions for institutional readiness, aiming to foster consistency and reduce administrative burden while maintaining strong stewardship and compliance. The document serves as both a reference and a roadmap for stakeholders responsible for managing federal awards, offering insights into anticipated challenges, recommended internal controls, coordination among departments, and timelines for transition. In summary, the guide is a practical and analytical tool designed to facilitate a smooth transition to the Uniform Guidance, ensuring institutions not only achieve compliance but also capitalize on potential efficiencies and improvements embedded in the new regulatory framework.
