Federal Supply Schedules: More Attention Needed to Competition and Prices

Abstract

The FSS program provides agencies a simplified method of purchasing commercial products and services at prices associated with volume buying. In 2011, the FAR was amended to enhance competition on FSS orders. Competition helps agencies get lower prices on products and services and get the best value for taxpayers. GAO was asked to examine competition and pricing for FSS orders. This report addresses (1) how and to what extent the government is using the FSS program, (2) factors influencing the degree of competition for FSS orders, and (3) the extent to which agencies examine prices to be paid for FSS orders. GAO analyzed data from the Federal Procurement Data System-Next Generation on obligations through the FSS program for fiscal years 2010-2014 and reviewed a nongeneralizable sample of 60 FSS orders awarded in fiscal year 2013 by DOD, HHS and GSA, the agencies with the highest use of the FSS program. GAO also interviewed officials from these agencies and FSS vendors.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jul 09, 2015
Accession Number
AD1174437

Entities

People

  • William T. Woods

Organizations

  • United States Government Accountability Office

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • Human Systems
  • Materials and Manufacturing Processes

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accountability
  • Acquisition
  • Business Administration
  • Commerce
  • Competition
  • Contractors
  • Contracts
  • Department Of Defense
  • Electronic Mail
  • Governments
  • Guidance
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • National Governments
  • Procurement
  • Small Business
  • United States Government

Readers

  • Government Contracting/Procurement.