What action must a QPA take if a contract is over the budget?

A Qualified Purchasing Agent (QPA) must take the action of seeking appropriate funding or adjusting the scope of work when a contract exceeds the budget. This approach ensures that the project can continue to move forward while remaining aligned with financial constraints. By looking for additional funding sources, the QPA can secure the necessary resources to fulfill the contract obligations.

If obtaining extra funds is not possible, adjusting the scope of work can also help in aligning the contract with the existing budget. This might involve reducing the project's scale or changing deliverables to stay within financial limits while ensuring essential aspects are maintained. This strategy not only reflects prudent financial management but also highlights the importance of adaptability in procurement processes.

Opting to revise the contract terms immediately or cancel the contract could lead to disruptions and legal challenges that may not be in the best interest of the project or organization. Increasing the bid amount might not be feasible or ethical and could further complicate budgetary issues. Therefore, the recommended approach focuses on finding solutions that keep the project viable within the funded scope.