FAR Subpart 8.4

Question 1

What is FAR Subpart 8.4 primarily about?

Answer 1

It governs the use of Federal Supply Schedules for acquiring goods and services.

Question 2

What is a Federal Supply Schedule (FSS)?

Answer 2

A schedule that provides federal agencies access to commercial supplies and services at pre-negotiated prices.

Question 3

What are the key benefits of using Federal Supply Schedules?

Answer 3

Streamlined procurement, reduced administrative costs, and established pricing.

Question 4

What types of products and services can be acquired through FSS?

Answer 4

A wide range of commercial products and services, including IT, office supplies, and professional services.

Question 5

What must agencies do before placing an order against a Federal Supply Schedule?

Answer 5

They must consider the schedules in accordance with their agency procurement policies.

Question 6

What is the process for placing an order under FSS?

Answer 6

Agencies can place orders directly with the schedule contractor or use a request for quotes (RFQ) process.

Question 7

Are there any thresholds for using the FSS?

Answer 7

Yes, orders above certain thresholds may require a more formal approach, such as obtaining quotes from multiple schedule holders.

Question 8

What is the significance of “multiple award schedules” in FAR Subpart 8.4?

Answer 8

They allow for competition among multiple vendors for the same goods or services, enhancing value.

Question 9

How do agencies determine fair and reasonable pricing when using FSS?

Answer 9

They assess pricing against the established price lists and can negotiate if necessary

Question 10

What should agencies document when placing an order under the FSS?

Answer 10

They must maintain records that justify the procurement decision and show compliance with applicable policies.

Question 11

What is the purpose of the GSA in relation to Federal Supply Schedules?

Answer 11

The General Services Administration (GSA) manages the Federal Supply Schedules program and negotiates contracts with vendors.

Question 12

Can agencies use FSS contracts for both new acquisitions and existing requirements?

Answer 12

Yes, agencies can use FSS for both new acquisitions and to meet ongoing requirements.

Question 13

What is the role of the ordering activity in the FSS process?

Answer 13

The ordering activity is the agency that identifies its needs and places orders against the FSS.

Question 14

What is the maximum order limitation?

Answer 14

It refers to the dollar limit beyond which agencies must seek additional discounts or consider alternate sources.

Question 15

Can agencies negotiate additional terms and conditions on FSS orders?

Answer 15

Yes, agencies can negotiate terms beyond those in the FSS if deemed necessary, particularly for large or complex orders.

Question 16

How often are Federal Supply Schedules updated?

Answer 16

FSS catalogs are regularly updated to reflect changes in pricing, product availability, and new vendors.

Question 17

What is the importance of socioeconomic programs in relation to FSS?

Answer 17

Agencies are encouraged to consider small businesses and other socioeconomic categories when using FSS.

Question 18

What is the primary regulation that governs the management of FSS contracts?

Answer 18

The primary regulation is the FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation) itself, particularly Part 8.

Question 19

How do FSS contracts support government-wide initiatives?

Answer 19

They facilitate acquisition efficiency, promote competition, and support federal strategic sourcing initiatives.

Question 20

What is the role of the ordering agency’s contracting officer in the FSS process?

Answer 20

The contracting officer is responsible for ensuring compliance with procurement regulations and making the final decisions on orders.

Question 21

What types of contracts are available under Federal Supply Schedules?

Answer 21

Fixed-price, cost-reimbursement, and time-and-materials contracts.

Question 22

What is the “Best Value” concept in FSS procurement?

Answer 22

It emphasizes selecting the option that provides the best overall value, not just the lowest price.

Question 23

Are there specific clauses that must be included in FSS contracts?

Answer 23

Yes, certain FAR clauses are required to be included in all FSS contracts.

Question 24

What is the significance of the “Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act” (FASA)?

Answer 24

FASA encourages the use of simplified procedures and streamlined acquisitions, including FSS.

Question 25

How do agencies handle issues with FSS contractors?

Answer 25

Agencies can file complaints with the GSA or pursue remedies outlined in the contract.

Question 26

What is the “Ordering Procedures” section in FAR Subpart 8.4?

Answer 26

It outlines the steps agencies must follow to place orders under FSS contracts.

Question 27

What types of evaluation criteria are used in the FSS ordering process?

Answer 27

Criteria may include price, quality, delivery time, and technical capabilities.

Question 28

Can an agency use FSS to fulfill international acquisitions?

Answer 28

Generally, FSS is intended for domestic acquisitions, but exceptions may apply based on specific needs.

Question 29

What is the “Order of Precedence” clause?

Answer 29

It specifies which documents govern in case of a conflict between contract documents.

Question 30

How can agencies ensure compliance with ethical standards when using FSS?

Answer 30

Agencies must follow all applicable laws and regulations regarding conflict of interest and procurement integrity.