Overview
This section identifies Federal Supply Schedules (FSSs), multi-agency blanket purchase agreements (BPAs), and multi-agency indefinite-delivery contracts as preferred vehicles for streamlined acquisition. It emphasizes their utility in providing rapid response capabilities through pre-negotiated terms and existing administrative frameworks.
Key Rules
- Regulatory Cross-References: Directs acquisition officials to specific procedures for FSS (Subpart 8.4), multi-agency BPAs (8.405-3(a)(6)), and multi-agency indefinite-delivery contracts (16.505(a)(8)).
- Streamlined Procedures: These vehicles are designated as primary tools for accessing a broad range of goods and services without the need for full open-market solicitations.
- Pre-negotiated Terms: Validates the use of pre-established line items and specialized terms and conditions to facilitate immediate procurement actions.
- Rapid Response: Explicitly links these contracting methods to "advance planning" and "rapid response" capabilities, particularly in the context of emergency acquisitions.
Practical Implications
- Contracting officers can significantly reduce procurement lead times during emergencies by leveraging established pricing and vetted vendors.
- Reduces administrative burden by utilizing existing contract vehicles that satisfy the requirements for competition and price reasonableness at the master contract level.