GSA is testing a new feature on its GSA Advantage platform called GSA AdvantageSelect with a goal of making it easier and faster for agency officials to purchase pre-competed IT commodities, starting with 22-inch monitors and 14-inch laptops with a standard configuration.
“From this portal, a contracting officer or purchase card holder need only enter the quantity they require, and can proceed straight to check-out — so buying a commodity is finally as easy as click and pay. GSA has done the work for you by competing these items up front, applying category management principles and utilizing our latest procurement tools,” it said in a blog post.
The feature arose out of the administration’s category management initiative and incorporates best practices from federal agencies and the private sector, it said.
The program later is to expand “so that multiple product offerings can be awarded not only using full and open competitive procedures, but also solely within the various sub-categories of small businesses, thus providing our customers with multiple product offerings from the entire socio-economic spectrum of industry. As we continue testing the portal, meeting with customers, and conducting industry days, AdvantageSelect will evolve. Few things are set in stone at this point, however three goals remain in sharp focus: robust small business participation, savings for commodities purchased, and a streamlined acquisition process.”
