Understanding the Federal Acquisition Service (FAS)
What is the FAS?
The Federal Acquisition Service (FAS) is a division of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) responsible for delivering comprehensive products and services across government agencies. FAS streamlines the procurement process, ensuring that federal agencies have access to the necessary resources to operate efficiently and effectively. By leveraging the collective buying power of the federal government, FAS negotiates contracts that offer best value in terms of cost, quality, and service.
Key Areas of Focus:
- Multiple Award Schedule (MAS): Formerly known as the GSA Schedule, MAS is a long-term governmentwide contract with commercial firms providing federal, state, and local government buyers access to over 11 million commercial supplies and services at volume discount pricing.
- Governmentwide Acquisition Contracts (GWACs): These are pre-competed, multiple-award, indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contracts that agencies can use to buy total IT solutions, including both products and services.
- Assisted Acquisition Services (AAS): FAS offers acquisition, project management, and financial management services to assist agencies in acquiring and deploying information technology and professional services solutions.
- Technology Transformation Services (TTS): This service helps agencies build, buy, and share technology to achieve their digital transformation objectives.
Mission and Goals
The mission of FAS is to provide best-value services, products, and solutions to federal agencies, enabling them to focus on their core missions. FAS aims to:
- Simplify Procurement: Streamline the acquisition process to make it more efficient for federal agencies.
- Ensure Compliance: Adhere to federal acquisition regulations to maintain transparency and fairness.
- Promote Innovation: Introduce innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of federal agencies.
- Achieve Cost Savings: Leverage the government’s buying power to negotiate favorable terms and pricing.
FAS Organization
FAS is structured into several business lines, each focusing on specific areas:
- General Supplies and Services (GSS): Provides a wide range of commercial products and services.
- Information Technology Category (ITC): Offers IT products, services, and solutions.
- Professional Services and Human Capital Categories (PSHC): Delivers professional and human capital services.
- Transportation and Logistics Services (TLS): Manages transportation, delivery, and logistics solutions.
- Travel, Relocation, and Charge Card Services (TRC): Offers travel and relocation services, including charge card programs.
Advancing Your Career as a Contractor with FAS
Helpful Tips for IT Professionals and Consultants:
- Understand FAS Programs: Familiarize yourself with FAS offerings, such as MAS and GWACs, to identify where your services align.
- Stay Informed on Regulations: Keep abreast of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to ensure compliance in your contracting activities. gsa.gov
- Leverage GSA Resources: Utilize tools like the GSA eLibrary to research contract opportunities and understand procurement trends. gsaelibrary.gsa.gov
- Develop a Strong Proposal: Craft clear and compelling proposals that address the specific needs of federal agencies.
- Network with Agencies: Attend GSA events and workshops to connect with agency representatives and understand their procurement needs.
- Invest in Continuous Learning: Engage in training programs and certifications to enhance your understanding of federal procurement processes.
- Prioritize Cybersecurity: Ensure your IT solutions comply with federal cybersecurity standards to protect sensitive information.
- Implement Agile Practices: Adopt Agile methodologies to deliver flexible and responsive IT solutions that meet agency requirements.
- Focus on Customer Service: Provide exceptional support to build strong relationships with federal clients.
- Maintain Compliance: Regularly review and adhere to contract terms and conditions to avoid potential issues.