Which statement best defines the Commissioning Authority (CxA)?

• A. An external auditor independent of the owner
• B. An entity identified by the owner who leads, plans, schedules, and coordinates the commissioning team to implement the commissioning process
• C. The general contractor
• D. The facilities manager

Answer: (B)

The role being tested is who is responsible for guiding the commissioning effort and making sure the owner's requirements are met. The best description defines the Commissioning Authority as an entity identified by the owner who leads, plans, schedules, and coordinates the commissioning team to implement the commissioning process. This captures the leadership and coordination duties essential to the CxA, ensuring the entire process is executed and aligned with the owner's goals.

This differs from an external auditor, whose job is typically to verify compliance rather than lead the entire commissioning effort. It also differs from the general contractor, whose primary responsibility is construction execution, not overseeing the full commissioning process. And it differs from the facilities manager, who handles ongoing operations after occupancy rather than directing commissioning activities during design and construction.