What is the primary function of a subcontractor in contract administration?

The primary function of a subcontractor in contract administration is to perform specific parts of the obligations outlined in a contract. Subcontractors are typically engaged by the main contractor to complete tasks that require specialized skills or labor, which the main contractor may not have in-house. This allows for increased efficiency and expertise within a project.

In this role, subcontractors are responsible for delivering components of the work according to the specifications and timelines set by the main contractor, who ultimately retains the responsibility for the overall project. This delineation of labor enables more complex projects to proceed smoothly, as subcontractors focus on their specialized areas while the main contractor manages the broader project objectives, including coordination, compliance, and quality control.

The other options regarding a company managing the entire project, a representative of the client overseeing the project, or the main contractor responsible for project completion do not appropriately define the subcontractor's role, as they refer to different entities or responsibilities within the contract administration framework.