GSA Class Deviation Commercial Supplier Agreements: Understanding the Basics

The General Services Administration (GSA) is the federal agency responsible for managing the procurement of goods and services for government agencies. The GSA’s Federal Acquisition Service (FAS) helps federal agencies acquire the products, services, and solutions they need to fulfill their missions. One way the GSA does this is by entering into commercial supplier agreements with companies that offer products and services to the government.

Recently, the GSA issued a Class Deviation that affects commercial supplier agreements. In this article, we’ll explain what a Class Deviation is, what commercial supplier agreements are, and what the impact of this deviation is.

What is a Class Deviation?

A Class Deviation is an action taken by the GSA that allows deviations from the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) or other agency acquisition policies. Class Deviations are used when it is not practical to amend the FAR or other policies, or when a temporary change is needed due to urgent circumstances.

What are Commercial Supplier Agreements?

Commercial Supplier Agreements are contracts that the GSA enters into with commercial suppliers. These agreements allow government agencies to purchase products and services from the suppliers at pre-negotiated prices and terms. The agreements make it easier for government agencies to acquire the products and services they need, while also providing cost savings and other benefits.

What is the Impact of the Class Deviation on Commercial Supplier Agreements?

The Class Deviation affects the use of commercial supplier agreements for “micro-purchases,” which are purchases of goods or services under $10,000. Previously, the GSA allowed government agencies to use commercial supplier agreements for micro-purchases without conducting market research or obtaining price quotes.

The new Class Deviation requires government agencies to conduct market research and obtain price quotes before using commercial supplier agreements for micro-purchases. This change is intended to ensure that government agencies get the best value for their money and that commercial suppliers are not given an unfair advantage.

Conclusion

The GSA Class Deviation on commercial supplier agreements for micro-purchases is a significant change that will affect how government agencies acquire goods and services. As a professional, it’s important to understand the impact of this deviation and to communicate it clearly to readers. By doing so, you can help government agencies stay informed and make the best decisions when it comes to procurement.