First article testing and approval (hereafter referred to as testing and approval) ensures that the contractor can furnish a product that conforms to all contract requirements for acceptance. Before requiring testing and approval, the contracting officer shall consider the-

1. (a) Impact on cost or time of delivery;

2. (b) Risk to the Government of foregoing such test; and

3. (c) Availability of other, less costly, methods of ensuring the desired quality.