![](media/image1.wmf){width="6.5in" height="4.205555555555556in"}

**Small Business Governmentwide Acquisition Contracts Center**

The General Services Administration (GSA), Federal Acquisition Service
(FAS), Integrated Technology Services (ITS), Small Business
Governmentwide Acquisition Contracts Center (the "Center") offers a
portfolio of pre-competed, Information Technology (IT) solutions
contracts set aside exclusively for 8(a) certified firms.

*We make it easy for you, our federal customers, through:*

-   **Access to high quality, *small disadvantaged* 8(a) industry
    partners**

-   **Sole source ordering up to the \$3.5 million competitive
    threshold**

-   **Pre-competed, multiple-award contracts**

-   **Short procurement lead-time**

-   **\$15 billion program ceiling (no individual contract ceiling)**

-   **8(a) credit through FPDS-NG data entry**

-   **Section 803 compliance**

-   **Dedicated staff that is customer focused and expert in small**

> **business technology contracts**

-   **Scope compatibility reviews of prospective orders &
    modifications**

-   **Consistent labor categories for all vendors**

*How to reach us:*

-   **By phone (877) 327-8732 (toll free)**

-   **By fax (816) 823-1608**

-   **By e-mail at <8a@gsa.gov>**

-   **On the web at:**
    [*www.gsa.gov/8astars*](http://www.gsa.gov/8astars)

-   **1500 E. Bannister Road (6FGC), Kansas City, MO 64131**

Table of Contents

[Who We Are 5](#who-we-are)

[Introduction 6](#introduction)

[Functional Area Descriptions 7](#functional-area-descriptions)

[Ordering from 8(a) STARS 11](#ordering-from-8a-stars)

[Delegation of Ordering Authority 11](#delegation-of-ordering-authority)

[Scope Compatibility Reviews for Prospective Orders and Modifications
12](#scope-compatibility-reviews-for-prospective-orders-and-modifications)

[Ordering Guidance 13](#ordering-guidance)

[Performance Based Services Acquisition
13](#performance-based-services-acquisition-pbsa-aka-performance-based-contracting)

[PWS 14](#pws)

[SOO 14](#soo)

[Describing requirements 14](#describing-requirements)

[Funding 15](#funding)

[Higher Risk Work Scope Areas 15](#higher-risk-work-scope-areas)

[Not Allowed on 8(a) STARS 15](#not-allowed-on-8a-stars)

[Security Clearance Considerations for Classified Orders
15](#security-clearance-considerations-for-classified-orders)

[Access required during the solicitation process
15](#if-access-is-required-during-the-solicitation-process)

[Access not required during the solicitation process
16](#if-access-is-not-required-during-the-solicitation-process)

[Subcontracting 16](#subcontracting)

[Order Duration 17](#order-duration)

[Size Recertification 17](#size-recertification)

[Fair Opportunity to be Considered
18](#fair-opportunity-to-be-considered-fair-opportunity)

[Streamlined Acquisition 20](#streamlined-acquisition)

[Phase One 20](#phase-one)

[Phase Two 21](#phase-two)

[Section 803 21](#section-803)

[Price Analysis Guidelines 21](#price-analysis-guidelines)

[Proposals, quotes and orders for Fixed-Price work
22](#__RefHeading___Toc165268651)

[Proposals, quotes and orders for Labor Hour work
24](#proposals-quotes-and-orders-for-labor-hour-work)

[Proposals, quotes and orders for Time and Materials work
25](#__RefHeading___Toc165268655)

[Debriefings 27](#debriefings)

[Alternate Dispute Resolution 27](#alternate-dispute-resolution)

[Order Level Protest 27](#order-level-protest)

[OMBUDSMAN Process 27](#ombudsman-process)

[Past Performance 28](#past-performance)

[Order Close Out & Record Keeping 28](#order-close-out-record-keeping)

[Claiming Socioeconomic Credit 28](#claiming-socioeconomic-credit)

[FPDS-NG Reporting 28](#fpds-ng-reporting)

[Direct Acquisition 28](#direct-acquisition)

[Assisted Contracting Services 28](#assisted-contracting-services)

[Industry Partner Guidance 30](#industry-partner-guidance)

[Subcontracting 30](#subcontracting-1)

[Delegations 30](#delegations)

[Sales reporting 30](#sales-reporting)

[Notification of Changes 31](#notification-of-changes)

[Performance Matters
31](#performance-matters-see-contract-for-complete-listing)

[Higher Risk Work Scope Areas 31](#higher-risk-work-scope-areas-1)

[Not Allowed on 8(a) STARS 31](#not-allowed-on-8a-stars-1)

[Past Performance 32](#past-performance-1)

[OMBUDSMAN Process 32](#ombudsman-process-1)

[Roles and Responsibilities 33](#roles-and-responsibilities)

[Appendix I 34](#appendix-i)

[*Small Business Government Wide Acquisition Contracts Center*
34](#small-business-government-wide-acquisition-contracts-center)

[Appendix II 35](#appendix-ii)

[*Applicable Documents, Websites and E-mail Addresses:*
35](#applicable-documents-websites-and-e-mail-addresses)

[Appendix III 36](#appendix-iii)

[*Glossary* 36](#glossary)

[Appendix IV 38](#appendix-iv)

[*Alphabetical Business Category Listing*
38](#alphabetical-business-category-listing)

*Questions regarding these guidelines should be directed to the 8(a)
STARS procuring contracting officers. These guidelines may be revised to
update the process of awarding and managing orders. Updates to this
publication, when they occur, will be available on the web at
[www.gsa.gov/8astars](http://www.gsa.gov/8astars)*

# Who We Are

The General Services Administration (GSA), Federal Acquisition Service
(FAS), Small Business Governmentwide Acquisition Contracts Center
(SBGWACC), hereinafter referred to as the "Center", has a diversified
portfolio of pre-competed, multiple award contracts with high-quality,
small business industry partners. These small business firms specialize
in providing innovative, information technology (IT) services and
services-based solutions to federal agencies worldwide. The Center
awards and administers IT contracts for governmentwide use as an
executive agent of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

The Center manages the following multiple-award, indefinite-delivery,
indefinite-quantity GWACs:

**8(a) STARS GWAC**

The 8(a) STARS (Streamlined Technology Acquisition Resources for
Services) Contract Vehicle is an 8(a) set-aside. The 8(a) STARS
contracts have a unique market niche, as the contract vehicle is
specifically designed for 8(a) certified vendors. The use of this
contract vehicle allows federal agencies to receive 8(a) socio-economic
procurement preference credit for their purchases. The 8(a) program
refers to the Small Business Administration's 8(a) Business Development
Program, named for a section of the Small Business Act. This program was
created to help small disadvantaged businesses compete in the federal
procurement market. For further information on the SBA's 8(a) Program,
go to [http://www.sba.gov](http://www.sba.gov/). For further information
on the 8(a) STARS contract vehicle, please review this guide and visit
[www.gsa.gov/8astars](http://www.gsa.gov/8astars).

**HUBZone GWAC**

The second GWAC is the HUBZone Information Technology Services Contract
Vehicle. This GWAC has a unique market niche as the contract vehicle is
set-aside for companies certified as a HUBZone, or Historically
Underutilized Business Zone. The U.S. Small Business Administration
(SBA) determines HUBZone status. There are four functional areas with
seven to nine contractors in each functional area, for a total of 29
awardees. The use of the contract allows federal agencies to receive
HUBZone socioeconomic credit toward their three percent statutory goal.
For further information regarding the SBA HUBZone Program, please go to
<http://www.sba.gov/hubzone/>. For further information regarding the
HUBZone GWAC, please visit
[www.gsa.gov/hubzone](http://www.gsa.gov/hubzone).

**VETS GWAC**

The third, and most recent, GWAC is VETS (Veterans Technology Services).
This GWAC has a unique market niche as the contract vehicle is set-aside
for service-disabled veteran-owned IT firms. The Veterans Administration
determines service-disabled veteran status. There are two functional
areas covering a broad scope of IT with a total of 43 awardees. The use
of this contract allows federal agencies to receive service-disabled
veteran-owned small business socioeconomic credit toward their three
percent statutory goals. For further information regarding SBA programs
for veterans, please go to [http://www.sba.gov](http://www.sba.gov/).
For further information regarding the VETS GWAC, please visit
[www.gsa.gov/vetsgwac](http://www.gsa.gov/vetsgwac).

# Introduction

8(a) STARS enables federal agencies to fulfill their IT services and
services-based solutions requirements and at the same time meet or
exceed socioeconomic goals through the utilization of small businesses
that are 8(a) certified, and also earn all other applicable procurement
preference credit that each awardee possesses when awarding an order to
them.

8(a) STARS was authorized under the provisions of Section 8(a) of the
Small Business Act

(15 U.S.C. 637(a)) and retains the 8(a) sole source authority for
services found in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 19.8.

Working in partnership with the 8(a) certified prime contractors, the
Center manages the contracts (a/k/a "basic contracts"). Through the use
of 8(a) STARS, customers have flexible means of meeting IT services and
services-based solutions needs quickly, efficiently and
cost-effectively.

This ordering guide is intended to help program officials, ordering
offices, ordering contracting officers and industry partners use 8(a)
STARS. 8(a) STARS covers eight Functional Areas (FA) defined by the
North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes listed
below:

FA 1 NAICS 541511 Custom Computer Programming Services

FA 2 NAICS 541512 Computer Systems Design Services

FA 3 NAICS 541513 Computer Facilities Management Services

FA 4 NAICS 518210 Data Processing, Hosting and Related Services

FA 5 NAICS 541519 Other Computer Related Services

FA 6 NAICS 516110 Internet Publishing and Broadcasting

FA 7 NAICS 519190 All Other Information Services

FA 8 NAICS 517110 Wired Telecommunications Carriers

Additional information for these NAICS and the FAs may be found in this
ordering guide. Full descriptions of the NAICS codes are on the web at
[www.census.gov/epcd/www/naics.html](http://www.census.gov/epcd/www/naics.html).

**Scope**

The *technical scope* of the 8(a) STARS GWAC includes information
technology services and incidental products necessary to meet the
requesting activity's requirements derived from the applicable NAICS
definition**. The associated services-based NAICS definition governs the
principle purpose of any task orders issued under this contract
vehicle.** The *geographical scope* of coverage is worldwide and
*organizational scope* of coverage includes those entities authorized in
GSA Order ADM 4800.2E (see Appendix II).

# Functional Area Descriptions

Shown with each NAICS code are associated business categories. Business
categories serve as a guide to placement of work with a functional area,
but are not the final answer. Due diligence that proposed work is a good
scope fit with the FA's NAICS code is still a good idea. Information
about reviewing the full NAICS code description was included on the
previous page.

**Functional Area 1**

**NAICS 541511 - Custom Computer Programming Services**

This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in
writing, modifying, testing, and supporting software to meet the needs
of a particular customer.

Business Categories \-- Applications Software Programming Services

Computer Program or Software Development

Computer Programming Services

Computer Software Support Services

Database Design/Generation

Legacy Interfaces/Data Migration

Software Analysis and Design

Software Programming

Software Testing

Web Design

**Functional Area 2**

**NAICS 541512 Computer Systems Design Services**

This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in
planning and designing computer systems that integrate computer
hardware, software, and communication technologies. The hardware and
software components of the system may be provided by this establishment
or company as part of **integrated services** or may be provided by
third parties or vendors. These establishments often install the system
and train and support users of the system.

Business Categories \-- Business Process Reengineering (BPR)

\*Cabling and Wiring

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Services

Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) Services

Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) Services

Computer Hardware Consulting Services

Computer Software Consulting Services

Computer Systems Integration Analysis and Design

Computer Systems Integration Design Consulting

Configuration Management

Enterprise Architecture Development

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)

IT Capital Planning Management

LAN/WAN Design

Network Design & Installation

Network Systems Integration

Systems Analysis

Systems Integration

\* **Considered higher risk business categories -- Statement of Work
compatibility review recommended prior to issuing task order**

**Functional Area 3**

**NAICS 541513 Computer Facilities Management Services**

This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in
providing on-site management and operation of clients\' computer systems
and/or data processing facilities. Establishments providing computer
systems or data processing facilities support services are included in
this industry.

Business Categories \-- Computer Operations/Support

Computer Systems Facilities Services

Data Processing Facilities Services

End User Support

Equipment Inventory & Maintenance

Hardware/Software Maintenance

\*Help Desk

IT Facilities Management, Operation, & Support

IT Facilities Planning

Network Management

**Functional Area 4**

**NAICS 518210 Data Processing, Hosting and Related Services**

This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in
providing infrastructure for hosting or data processing services. These
establishments may provide specialized hosting activities, such as web
hosting, streaming services or application hosting, provide application
service provisioning, or may provide general time-share mainframe
facilities to clients. Data processing establishments provide complete
processing and specialized reports from data supplied by clients or
provide automated data processing and data entry services.

Business Categories \-- Application Hosting

Application Service Providers (ASPs)

Automated Data Processing

Computer Input Preparation

Data Capture Imaging Services

Data Entry Services

Data Processing

Data Warehousing

Document Imaging

Electronic Data Processing

Media Streaming

Microfiche/Microfilm Services

Scanning Services

Storage Area Networks

Web Hosting

\* **Considered higher risk business categories -- Statement of Work
compatibility review recommended prior to issuing task order**

**Functional Area 5**

**NAICS 541519 Other Computer Related Services**

This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in
providing computer related services (except custom programming, systems
integration design, and facilities management services). Establishments
providing computer disaster recovery services or software installation
services are included in this industry.

Business Categories \-- Computer Disaster Recovery

Contingency Planning

Disaster Preparedness/Recovery

Documentation

Information Assurance and Security

Independent Verification & Validation

Software Installation

Virus Detection/Recovery

**Functional Area 6**

**NAICS - 516110 Internet Publishing and Broadcasting**

This U.S. industry comprises establishments engaged in publishing and/or
broadcasting content on the Internet exclusively. These establishments
do not provide traditional (non-Internet) versions of the content that
they publish or broadcast. Establishments in this industry provide
textual, audio, and/or video content of general or specific interest on
the Internet.

Business Categories \-- Broadcasting, exclusively on the Internet

Internet Broadcasting

Internet Video Broadcast

Special Interest Portals

Video Broadcasting, exclusively on the Internet

Web Broadcasting

**Functional Area 7**

**NAICS 519190 All Other Information Services**

This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in
providing other information services (except news syndicates and
libraries and archives).

Business Categories \-- \*Call Centers

Distance Learning

E-Commerce

Telephone-Based Recorded Information Services

Video Conferencing

\* **Considered higher risk business categories -- Statement of Work
compatibility review recommended prior to issuing task order**

**Functional Area 8**

**NAICS 517110 Wired Telecommunications Carriers**

This U.S. industry comprises establishments engaged in (1) operating and
maintaining switching and transmission facilities to provide
point-to-point communications via landlines, microwave, or a combination
of landlines and satellite linkups or (2) furnishing telegraph and other
non-vocal communications using their own facilities.

Business Categories \-- Facilities-Based Telecommunications Carriers
(except wireless)

Local Telephone Carriers (except wireless)

Long-Distance Telephone Carriers

Telecommunications Carriers

Telecommunications Networks

Telegram Services

Telephone Installation Services

# Ordering from 8(a) STARS

## Delegation of Ordering Authority

Federal buyers who wish to use the 8(a) STARS GWAC must receive training
and be granted a delegation of ordering authority prior to issuing task
orders, whereupon they will become ordering contracting officers (OCOs).
Delegations are required by GSA's Quality Assurance Plan in accordance
with the Office of Management and Budget guidelines. Delegations can
only be granted to warranted Contracting Officers, but all individuals
(i.e. contract managers, specialists, etc.) involved with an 8(a) STARS
task order are encouraged to participate in the training.

No work may be performed, no debt or obligation accrued and no payment
may be made except as authorized by a bona-fide written order signed by
a contracting officer having an 8(a) STARS delegation of ordering
authority.

There are three ways to receive 8(a) STARS delegation of ordering
authority: 1) Center for Acquisition Excellence Online Training Seminar,
2) through a conference call with one of the 8(a) STARS Procuring
Contracting Officers (PCOs), or 3) on site training for large groups of
potentials OCOs and/or IT program officials.

1.  **Center for Acquisition Excellence Online Training Seminar entitled
    "8(a) STARS Delegation of Order Authority"**

A self-paced seminar available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for
contracting officers interested in obtaining 8(a) STARS delegation, and
for individuals involved with potential orders. To take advantage of
this readily available training, please follow these steps:

1.  Access the Center for Acquisition Excellence at
    [https://fsstraining.gsa.gov](https://fsstraining.gsa.gov/)

2.  Request a login and password (if you do not already have one)

3.  Log-in to the Center for Acquisition Excellence

4.  Click on "Learning Center"

5.  Click on "Course Information and Enrollment"

6.  Select "8(a) STARS Delegation of Order Authority Seminar"

7.  Complete the seminar

8.  Email or fax a copy of the seminar completion certificate, the
    Ordering Agency's Contracting Officer's warrant and contact
    information for the contract officer (which includes: full name,
    agency, bureau/command name (if any), agency address, phone number,
    fax, and e-mail address)

-   Email above to: <delegations@gsa.gov>

-   Fax above to: (816) 823-1608

The Small Business GWAC Center will then validate the information
received and issue a memorandum of agreement, which includes the
delegation of authority. Both parties must execute the delegation in
writing before it is effective.

2.  **Conference Call with one of the 8(a) STARS Procuring Contracting
    Officers (PCOs)**

To start the process of obtaining delegation through one of the 8(a)
STARS PCOs, each contracting officer wanting delegation must submit the
following information to the Small Business GWAC Center's
<delegations@gsa.gov> inbox, or fax it to (816) 823-1608 (please place
"8(a) STARS delegation" in the subject line).

-   Agency name, bureau/command name (if any), individual(s) full name,
    street address, e-mail address, phone number and fax

-   Names of other individuals who may be participating in the training
    but not seeking delegation. W*e encourage all members of the
    procurement team to participate in the training or be familiar with
    the 8(a) STARS contract*

-   After receipt of this information, an 8(a) STARS PCO will contact
    the requester(s) to set up training

This training may take only 15 to 20 minutes provided the caller has
internet access. After training, a delegation of ordering authority
memorandum will be sent. Both parties must execute the delegation in
writing before it is effective. It is sometimes possible for these
delegations to be granted the same day as the training, although typical
cycle time is about two days.

3.  **On Site Training for Large Groups of Potential OCOs & IT Program
    Officials**

> Please contact the Center for details.

**FTS - 3 Steps**

## Scope Compatibility Reviews for Prospective Orders and Modifications

The Small Business GWAC Center offers OCOs and industry partners the
value-added opportunity to send in prospective Statements of Work
(SOW)/Statements of Objectives (SOO) and proposed modifications to
existing orders for advance scope compatibility review; this service is
not required for OCOs and [is available at no cost]{.underline}. This
quality assurance measure has been made available for those who would
like assistance in determining basic scope fit on the 8(a) STARS
contract vehicle.

The following items are required for a review to be conducted by the
Small Business GWAC Center\'s team of Contracting Officers:

1.  The OCO\'s selection of the principal or \"best fit\" North American
    Industrial Classification System (NAICS) code for the
    requirement. When determining the best fit NAICS code for
    the requirement, the OCO should use the entire NAICS code menu
    provided by the [Census
    Bureau](http://www.census.gov/epcd/www/naics.html), and not limit
    consideration to just those [NAICS codes under the 8(a) STARS
    GWAC](http://www.gsa.gov/Portal/gsa/ep/contentView.do?programId=11162&channelId=-15625&ooid=15749&contentId=16466&pageTypeId=8199&contentType=GSA_BASIC&programPage=%2Fep%2Fprogram%2FgsaBasic.jsp&P=6FG3). 
    If the best fit NAICS code matches one on the 8(a) STARS GWAC, it is
    a good indication that scope may be compatible.  If the best fit
    NAICS code does not match one on the 8(a) STARS GWAC, that is a
    strong indication the 8(a) STARS GWAC is not a good match for the
    requirement. 

2.  A complete copy of the SOW/SOO, to include requirements, desired
    order terms (fixed price, time and materials, labor-hour, etc.), and
    other prominent information including an Exhibit 300, if applicable

3.  The government estimate, if available

4.  Acquisition history, if any

For any prospective modification reviews, the complete order must be
sent to the Small Business GWAC Center in addition to the four items
listed above, with items 1, 2, 3 and 4 being specific to the proposed
modification.

To get started on these courtesy reviews, please do the following:

1.  Scan and attach the information listed above and the SOW/SOO to an
    e-mail addressed to <SOWreview@gsa.gov>

2.  Place \"SOW review for 8(a) STARS GWAC\" in the subject line

3.  Notate within the e-mail any specific questions that you'd like to
    be addressed by the Small Business GWAC Center\'s Contracting
    Officer team

What can be expected upon concluding the SOW/SOO review is a short
turn-around time, determination on whether the Small Business GWAC
Center deems the requirement a good basic fit for the 8(a) STARS GWAC,
and which Functional Area (FA) is appropriate based on the information
that has been presented. This process does not obviate an OCO's due
diligence. The OCO is still required to complete acquisition planning,
work with legal and technical advisors if appropriate or required,
conduct the procurement, perform due diligence, etc. Please remember, a
delegation of ordering authority for the 8(a) STARS GWAC must be
obtained by any OCO prior to issuing orders against this contract.

## Ordering Guidance

The total estimated value of a procurement including options should be
considered in developing an acquisition strategy. Tasks shall not be
split to avoid threshold limitations. The basic task and any
modifications must stay within scope of the order (and the contract).

Authorized order terms available under this GWAC are:

-   Fixed Price Family (FAR 16.2 and 16.4)

-   Time & Materials (FAR 16.6)

-   Labor Hour (FAR 16.6)

If not using fixed price terms, the FAR requires contracting officers to
document the rationale, and that applies to orders under 8(a) STARS.
Some orders may have work containing a combination of contract types,
i.e., fixed price, time & materials, and labor-hour terms. The ordering
agency is responsible for identifying the applicable order type(s), and
making the order terms clear, which should be stated in the RFQ/RFP and
resulting order.

### [Performance Based Services Acquisition ("PBSA", a/k/a Performance Based Contracting)]{.underline}

[PBSA]{.underline} means an acquisition structured around the results to
be achieved as opposed to the manner by which the work is to be
performed. The Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) recommends
that performance-based statements of work (SOW)/statements of objectives
(SOO) be utilized, to the maximum extent practicable, when acquiring
services in accordance with FAR 37.102(a) \[DFARS 237.170-2\].
Performance based SOWs are also known as [performance work statements
(PWS)]{.underline}.

Policy promulgated by the FY 2001 Defense Authorization Act (PL 106-398,
section 821), FAR 37.102, and FAR 16.505(a), establishes PBSA as the
preferred method for acquiring services. In addition, for Defense
agencies, DFARS 237.170-2 requires higher-level approval for any
acquisition of services that is not performance-based. Accordingly, it
is expected that most 8(a) STARS orders will be performance-based.

### [PWS]{.underline} 

A PWS identifies the technical, functional and performance
characteristics of the government's requirements. The PWS describes the
work in terms of the purpose of the work to be performed rather than how
the work is to be accomplished or the number of hours to be
provided**.**

### [SOO]{.underline}

A SOO is a variant of the PWS. It is a very brief document (commonly
about 2 to 10 pages, depending upon complexity, although there is no
maximum or minimum required length) which summarizes key agency goals
and outcomes, to which contractors respond with solutions. It is
different from a PWS in that offerors are asked to develop and propose a
PWS, technical approach, performance standards/metrics,
incentives/disincentives, a quality assurance surveillance plan (QASP)
(all based upon commercial practices) and pricing. At a minimum, a SOO
must contain the following information:

-   Purpose.

-   Scope or mission

-   Period and place of performance

-   Background

-   Performance objectives (*i.e.*, required results)

-   Any operating constraints

Upon award, the winning offeror's solution to the SOO & QASP should be
incorporated into the resulting task order; the SOO itself is not part
of the task order.

## Describing requirements 

Develop a description of the requirement in accordance with [FAR
16.505(a)
(2)](http://205.130.237.11/far/current/html/Subpart 16_5.html#wp1093133),
or authorized agency regulations, including, but not limited to, the
following, as applicable:

-   A SOW (PWS or not) or SOO

-   A desired completion date

-   Milestones and/or performance schedule (if not a SOO)

-   Set a RFI/RFQ/RFP response time to meet agency needs & promote
    competition

-   Evaluation factors and methodology

-   Any special instructions, conditions, notices, performance
    measures/metrics, etc.

-   The applicable Section 508 accessibility standards from 36 CFR 1194

-   Request subcontractor information (amount of work proposed to be
    performed by the

> 8(a) prime and its subcontractors). For certain tasks, OCO's may want
> to require prime contractors to provide subcontractor responsibility
> determinations (FAR 9.103 and 9.104-1) and consent to subcontract in
> task orders (FAR 44.2).

-   Strongly consider the optional free advance SOW/SOO scope
    compatibility review

-   Add any clauses needed at the task order level

## Funding

Funding for each order shall be at the order level, not at the contract
level.

Incremental funding strategies may be used if consistent with customer
agency policy. In such a situation the total potential requirement
(including price, period of performance, and performance milestones) is
subject to fair opportunity to be considered and the agency should
disclose that incremental funding will be used, and to what degree. The
order will initially be funded up to a level certain, and additional
incremental funds may be added by modifications, but each progressive
modification adding funds should be tied to explicit measurable
performance milestones. Modifications may not materially extend a task's
competed period of performance or materially increase its competed total
dollar value. The basic task and any modifications must stay within
scope. Do not rely upon the basic contract's Changes clause(s) or
Limitations in Funds Clauses (52.232-23) to implement incremental
funding as they are not an appropriate source of authority. Agency
policy will have to be communicated in the RFQ/RFP and resulting order
about the OCO's authority for, and terms of, incremental funding.

## Higher Risk Work Scope Areas

The following types of work can be IT services and solutions if
established properly. However, under representation of IT professional
services and overrepresentation of non-IT services and/or products can
occur and is problematic, so we strongly advise due diligence and
consultation with this Center and your legal and technical advisors.

-   Help Desk

-   Call Center

-   Software Licensing/Software License Management

-   Cabling and Wiring

-   Professional Services (i.e. Consulting, Project Management)

## Not Allowed on 8(a) STARS

-   Renting (it is ok for a contractor to enter into rental agreements,
    but the government will not be a party to them)

-   Leasing (it is ok for a contractor to enter into leases, but the
    government will not be a party to them)

-   Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs)

-   Cost Contracts

## Security Clearance Considerations for Classified Orders

Before issuing an RFI/RFQ/RFP for a classified order, a determination
should be made as to whether or not access to anything classified will
be required during the RFI/RFQ/RFP (a/k/a "solicitation") process.

### [If access is required during the solicitation process:]{.underline} 

All prospective contractors who may receive the RFI/RFQ/RFP must possess
the appropriate facility clearance, safeguarding capability and
personnel security clearance in order to access the solicitation
package. This may be ascertained by requiring proof of credentialing.

### [If access is not required during the solicitation process:]{.underline} 

Prospective contractors do not have to possess facility clearances to
receive or review the RFI/RFQ/RFP.

RFIs/RFQs/RFPs and orders should specify if [facility security
clearance]{.underline} granted by a cognizant security agency (CSA) is
required, and the highest required facility security clearance level. A
DD254 is commonly used in solicitations to present these requirements.

RFIs/RFQs/RFPs and orders should specify if SENSITIVE COMPARTMENTED
INFORMATION (having various compartments), TOP SECRET, SECRET, or
CONFIDENTIAL industrial [personnel security]{.underline}
[clearances]{.underline} (a/k/a "PCL") granted by a CSA are required.
Unless the requiring activity has a bona-fide reason for precluding
interim PCLs, they should be considered equivalent to non-interim PCLs.
A DD254 is commonly used in solicitations to present these requirements.

RFIs/RFQs/RFPs and orders should specify if CSA cleared
[safeguarding]{.underline} is required, and if required, the highest
required level. The safeguarding level should not exceed the facility
security clearance level. A DD254 is commonly used in solicitations to
present these requirements.

If the agency requirement is for active facility security clearance
and/or current PCLs as an award prerequisite, as opposed to something
that the requiring activity would allow a reasonable period of time
after award to earn based upon the ordering contracting officer's
agency, or customer agency sponsorship at the CSA, it should be so
identified in the RFI/RFQ/RFP. Such requirements for clearances as a
precondition for award are not unforeseen and are not uncommon. When
required as a condition of award, the following sample language is
suggested for the RFI/RFQ/RFP (and in the case of an RFI, it is advisory
in nature only, and not intended to be a screen that is typically
implemented at that juncture).

> The Government considers the requirement for \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_(cite
> the applicable clearance(s)) \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ a definitive
> responsibility matter, i.e., Offerors must submit proof of these
> credentials before order award. This proof shall be made available to
> the Government after the deadline for receipt of quotes/proposals
> within five (5) working days of the Government's request for it.
> Failure to submit that information within five (5) working days will
> be deemed a material nonconformity and result in your
> non-selection/offer rejection. Competitors are advised to have
> clearance documentation at the ready so it is available when the
> Government requests it.

There are four different CSAs, all of which have equal authority: The
Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, the Central
Intelligence Agency, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Reciprocity/equivalency of clearances between the CSAs is an evolving
area and is not guaranteed.

## Subcontracting

In accordance with the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), 13 CFR 125.6 a
small business concern contracting for services has agreed that, the
concern will perform at least 50 percent of the cost of the contract
incurred for personnel with its own employees. The location of the full
text of this CFR can be found at
<http://www.sba.gov/library/cfrs/13cfr125.html>. This is also stated in
the contract in FAR Clause 52.219-14, Limitation on Subcontracting. All
contract holders are responsible for managing the balance of workload
being performed under their contracts and orders.

It is a requirement of the 8(a) STARS Industry Partners to submit
semi-annual subcontracting reports to the Small Business GWAC Center. As
8(a) STARS is reserved for 8(a) certified firms, and as discussed above,
prime contractors are responsible for performing greater than 50% of the
work at the contract level, and should also be expected to perform a
significant amount on each order. It is a best practice to require
industry partners to disclose the amount of work they intend to perform
with their own resources in quotations and proposals by asking for it in
your requests for quotation and requests for proposal, respectively. A
good rule of thumb for an order is for the small business prime
contractor to be expected to perform around 50% of the work itself. If
that's not the case, we invite you to contact us for guidance.

## Order Duration

Orders may be awarded during the 8(a) STARS basic contract life, which
is also referred to as the contract ordering period. The contract
ordering base period is for three years with two, two-year options. The
base period began June 1, 2004 and expires May 31, 2007. Task order
duration, provided the order is issued during the GWAC's ordering
period, is not dependent upon the Center exercising the option of the
underlying GWAC/basic contract. Orders may be issued for a term
consistent with the customer agency's policy on task order duration with
one limitation - proposed orders that may run beyond the final day of
the underlying GWAC ordering period May 31, 2007 (for now), and then May
31, 2009 under option one (if exercised as intended), and then May 31,
2011 under option two (if exercised) are subject to additional duration
conditions established in the GWAC. Generally this limits task orders to
three years beyond the final day of the contract ordering period, which
would mean all orders would have to be substantially completed by May
31, 2010 if issued/awarded during the base period, May 31, 2012 is
issued/awarded during option one (if exercised as intended) and May 31,
2014 if issued/awarded during option two (if exercised). Ordering
contracting officers should confer with the Center about the particulars
in these cases. FAR clauses 52.216-18(a) and 52.216-22(d) provide
background for the contract ordering period and order duration.

## Size Recertification

[]{.mark}

Current FAR policy, derived from SBA policy, on size recertification
draws from FAR 19.804-6(c), and addresses new orders under multiple
awards contracts. It does not direct size recertification on task
orders. Ordering agencies may request size certifications for orders if
they chose to do so. With that discretion comes choice of response. In
that respect, the new SBA rule governing size recertification is
illustrative (and follows 19.804-6 shown below):

**19.804-6 Multiple award and Federal Supply Schedule contracts.**

> \(a\) Separate offers and acceptances must not be made for individual
> orders under multiple award or Federal Supply Schedule (FSS)
> contracts. SBA's acceptance of the original multiple award or FSS
> contract is valid for the term of the contract.
>
> \(b\) The requirements of 19.805-1 do not apply to individual orders
> that exceed the competitive threshold as long as the original contract
> was competed.
>
> \(c\) An 8(a) concern may continue to accept new orders under a
> multiple award or FSS contract even after a concern's program term
> expires, the concern otherwise exits the 8(a) Program, or the concern
> becomes other than small for the NAICS code assigned under the
> contract.

Effective June 30, 2007, SBA's new rule covering contract (as opposed to
order) size recertification impacts multiple award contracts set-aside
for small business programs, like 8(a) STARS. The rule requires size
recertification of the basic contract's awardees at the 5^th^ year, and
then for every option period thereafter. If a contract awardee on 8(a)
STARS is no longer small at those recertification points, they will
retain their basic contract and the terms of the basic contract still
apply. The firm will be recoded as no longer a small business so that
new orders issued to such a contractor are not longer credited as small
business awards. It does not direct size recertification on task orders.
Ordering agencies can request size certifications for orders if they
chose to do so. With that discretion comes choice of response, and the
SBA rule cited above regarding basic contracts illuminates the
governmentwide approach that has just been vetted through the rulemaking
process. 8(a) STARS limitation on task order life to three years beyond
the ordering period in effect at the time of order issuance/award is
designed to promote service continuity while ensuring that small
businesses are issued/awarded new orders.

**Note to GSA OCOs:**

8(a) STARS contracts are available in IT Solutions Shop in the 8(a)
STARS contract family. In many cases, there are multiple pick lists for
each 8(a) STARS functional area.

## Fair Opportunity to be Considered ("fair opportunity")

When determining whether or not [fair opportunity]{.underline} is
required, the OCO should consider the entire value of the task order
inclusive of all option periods. Since the 8(a) STARS contract vehicle
was awarded under the provisions of FAR 19.8 and Section 8(a) of the
Small Business Act (15 U.S.C 637(a)) sole source 8(a) orders may be
placed when the total award value is less than or equal to the \$3.5
million competitive threshold.

**Tasks under the \$3.5 Million Competitive Threshold**

Effective September 28, 2006 a mandatory statutory inflationary
adjustment increased the competitive threshold on non manufacturing 8(a)
contracts from \$3 million to \$3.5 million. The adjustment was a result
of 41 U.S.C. 431a as added by section 807 of the Ronald W. Reagan
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 (Pub. L.
108-375, FAR Case 2004-033). The final rule is included in [FAC
05-13](http://acquisition.gov/far/fac/fac05-13.pdf) and demonstrated in
the accompanying table of acquisition thresholds. It is also reflected
in FAR 19.805-1 (a) (2).

In accordance with FAR 19.804-2(a) (10) (i), directed ordering is
available for orders of \$3.5 million or less based on the contractor's
self-marketing efforts or past performance as an incumbent. OCOs should
remember:

-   Contracts were competitively-awarded in accordance with FAR 19.8
    resulting in multiple awards

-   The awarded prices are ceiling rates

-   OCOs should make a determination of price reasonableness for each
    order and typically negotiate price discounts.

-   Orders of \$3.5 million or less should cite 15 U.S.C. 637(a).

-   On a self-marketed task order, the OCO should verify that the
    contractor has an award in the applicable FA. The 8(a) STARS
    website, www.gsa.gov/8astars, identifies all 8(a) STARS contractors
    by FA.

Even though the sole source authority is for task orders under \$3.5
million, the OCO may choose to provide [fair opportunity]{.underline}
under that level as discussed in the next section.

**Tasks greater than the \$3.5 million Competitive Threshold**

In accordance with FAR 16.505(b)(1) & 10 USC § 2304c(b), [fair
opportunity]{.underline} should be provided to all contract holders in
the applicable Functional Area (FA) on all orders exceeding the
competitive threshold of \$3.5 million, unless one or more of the four
statutory Fair opportunity exceptions found in FAR 16.505(b)(2) \[DFARS
216.505-70(b)\] applies. Exceptions should be documented in accordance
with FAR 16.5. These are the **only** exceptions.

**[1. The agency need for the supplies or services are so urgent that
providing a fair opportunity would result in unacceptable
delays]{.underline}**

> Use of this exception is appropriate under circumstances [similar
> to]{.underline} the authority of FAR 6.302-2 \[DFAR 206.302-2, PGI
> 206.302-2\]. The circumstances under which use of this authority [may
> be appropriate]{.underline} include, but are not limited to, the
> following:
>
> \(i\) IT services or IT services-based solutions are needed at once
> because of fire, flood, explosion, or other disaster.
>
> \(ii\) Essential IT services or IT services-based solutions are needed
> at once to---
>
> \(A\) Comply with orders for a ship;
>
> \(B\) Perform the operational mission of an aircraft; or
>
> \(C\) Preclude impairment of launch capabilities or mission
> performance of missiles or missile support equipment.
>
> \(iii\) IT services or IT services-based solutions are needed at once
> to preserve IT from damage.
>
> \(iv\) Purchase requests citing an issue priority designator under DoD
> 4140.1-R, DoD Materiel Management Regulation, of 4 or higher, or
> citing "Electronic Warfare QRC Priority."

**[2. Only one awardee is capable of providing the supplies or services
required at the level of quality required because the supplies or
services ordered are unique or highly specialized]{.underline}**

> \(i\) Use of this exception should be rare. Its use is appropriate
> when---
>
> \(A\) No other contractor is capable of providing a service or
> services-based solution of a comparable nature; and
>
> \(B\) No other type of services or services-based solution will
> satisfy agency requirements.
>
> \(ii\) When using this exception, the *justification* should
> explain---
>
> \(A\) What is unique or highly specialized about the service or
> services-based solution; and
>
> \(B\) Why only the specified contractor can meet the requirement.

**[3. The order must be issued on a sole-source basis in the interest of
economy and efficiency as a logical follow-on to an order already issued
under the contract, provided that all awardees were given a fair
opportunity for the original order]{.underline}**

> i\) A follow-on order is a new procurement placed with a particular
> contractor to continue or augment a specific program or service. When
> using this exception, the *justification* should discuss why the
> specific requirement continues and why it is to the benefit of the
> Government for the particular contractor to continue this work (see
> FAR 16.505(b)(4)). Examples include---
>
> \(A\) Award to any other source would likely result in substantial
> duplication of cost to the Government that is not expected to be
> recovered through competition;
>
> \(B\) Award of the order to a different source would cause
> unacceptable delays in fulfilling the Government's requirements (lack
> of advance planning is not valid rationale); or
>
> \(C\) A contractor is already at work on a site, and it would not be
> practical to allow another contractor to work on the same site.

\(ii\) When using this exception---

> \(A\) Specify how recent the previous competitive order was and the
> number of times this exception has been used;
>
> \(B\) Discuss why the specific requirement continues; and
>
> \(C\) Discuss why it would be of benefit to the Government for the
> specified contractor to continue this work.

**[4. It is necessary to place an order to satisfy a minimum
guarantee]{.underline}**

This exception is reserved to the Center

## Streamlined Acquisition

A streamlined fair opportunity multi-phased approach is available for
task orders exceeding \$3.5 million. The following procedures outline
phases one and two of this recommended two-phased best practice, which
complies with DFAR 216.505-70(c)-(d).

### 

### [Phase One]{.underline}

1.  Determine the Functional Area for the requirement. Strongly consider
    the free scope compatibility review offered by the Center.

2.  Develop a Request for Information (RFI). The RFI should:

3.  Include salient characteristics of the specific requirement (e.g.
    security clearance, specialized information, certifications,
    deliverables, response requirements) and disclose the general basis
    on which selections will be made

    -   Instruct contractors to inform the OCO of their affirmative
        interest in the competition by the date shown in the RFI or they
        will not be included in phase two

    -   Establish a response deadline that makes sense for phase one,
        understanding that the bid and proposal effort for phase one is
        typically minimal for the prime contractors, unless more
        detailed information is required than what is suggested in 3
        below.

    -   Transmit the RFI to the [entire list of awardees in the
        particular FA]{.underline} to determine their interest in the
        competition, permitting them to opt-in or opt-out of phase two.
        [We recommend using GSA's e-Buy, which will allow you to include
        only 8(a) STARS industry partners and provides proof that you
        did post it]{.underline}. Industry partners are responsible for
        monitoring e-Buy and keeping their information in it current.
        GSA OCOs may also use GSA IT Solutions Shop and should select
        all of the pick lists for the respective functional area.

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4.  Maintain a record of the RFI transmittal and responses in the order
    file to document use of fair opportunity procedures. Save
    transmission failure notices for the record.

5.  The OCO should include all awardees in the FA who have indicated
    interest in further consideration/opted in for phase two, but not
    those who did not respond in the affirmative under phase one.

### 

### [Phase Two]{.underline}

[Please ensure that all 8(a) STARS prime contractors who opted-in during
phase one receive a copy of the RFQ/RFP in phase two]{.underline}.
Historically, this process reduces the number of proposals by targeting
those industry partners who have researched their current capabilities
and availability, and provides useful acquisition planning/milestone
information.

For the phase two RFQ/RFP, competitive award criteria should be
established (price/cost will always be a factor per
16.505(b)(1)(ii)(E)). Past performance was a part of the criteria for
award for these contracts; however, OCOs are encouraged to consider it
as a criterion. References and past performance information for specific
vendors can be requested from the contract holder. Either best
value/tradeoff or low price-technically acceptable evaluations are
authorized at the RFQ/RFP level, with a preference for the former. FAR
16.505(b)(ii) provides great latitude in designing an appropriate
streamlined evaluation scheme, and we encourage utilizing that latitude
in ways which are reasonable for your requirement. FAR part 15
evaluations are not required, but if your announced evaluation structure
replicates it, which increases the odds it will be seen as such. It is a
[best practice to disclaim a FAR part 15 evaluation in your
RFQ/RFP]{.underline}. The government may require oral presentations at
the order level. The government may evaluate quotations without
discussions; and if that is planned it is recommended the RFQ/RFP advise
of that and that each initial quote should contain the best terms. The
OCO should select a response time consistent with the needs of the
agency being paramount, with an aim to promote competition to the extent
practicable.

## Section 803

The 8(a) STARS contract vehicle was competitively awarded pursuant to
Section 8(a) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(a)) and FAR Part
19.8. Section 803 of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2002 is
satisfied in two ways under 8(a) STARS:

-   For directed, a/k/a sole source, orders under the \$3.5 million
    statutory competitive threshold, DFARS 216.505-70(b) (1) establishes
    a specific justification which applies when any statute expressly
    authorizes or requires that a purchase be made from a specified
    source.

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-   For orders requiring fair opportunity (those above the \$3.5 million
    statutory competitive threshold), DFARS 216.505-70(b) (2) applies
    and we have structured the ordering guidance consistent with it.

## Price Analysis Guidelines

The contract (a/k/a "basic contract") affords great flexibility to order
information technology (IT) services and IT services-based solutions.
With that latitude comes the obligation to learn how those types of
orders are recommended to be structured for price reasonableness and
risk purposes.\
\
The contract allows for pricing of task orders on a fixed price (FP),
time and material (T&M), or labor-hour (LH) basis, and for travel on a
reimbursable basis pursuant to one of the recognized federal travel
regulations designated by the customer for the order. Pre-priced labor
categories (labor from the pre-priced contract line items) under all
task orders awarded pursuant to this contract, whether awarded on a FP,
T&M, or LH basis, are capped at the pricing set forth in the ceiling
labor rate tables of Section B and defined by associated labor category
descriptions. The pre-priced labor rates in the labor rate tables
reflect the fully burdened ceiling rates for the associated [direct
labor hours]{.underline}.  Proposed work from pre-priced labor may not
exceed the ceiling rates and is typically discounted.\
\
Pricing formation will vary depending upon the contract type planned for
the task order requirements. It should account for all resources to
accomplish the order, but varies with the terms. The contractor is
permitted, and ordinarily expected, to quote/propose labor rates that
are lower than those established in the labor rate tables. [OCOs may ask
contractors to explain the basis for their rates quoted/proposed for
task orders]{.underline}. The proposed, reduced labor rates may be
reviewed to ensure the Government will not be placed at risk of
nonperformance. The reduced labor rates will apply only to the
respective order and will not change the ceiling rates in the basic
contract labor rate tables. The level of detail should be primarily
based on the contract type planned for use, as further discussed below,
and is supported by FAR 15.405(b), which states:

> \(b\) The contracting officer's primary concern is the overall price
> the Government will actually pay. The contracting officer's objective
> is to negotiate a contract of a type and with a price providing the
> contractor the greatest incentive for efficient and economical
> performance. The negotiation of a contract type and a price are
> related and should be considered together with the issues of risk and
> uncertainty to the contractor and the Government. Therefore, the
> contracting officer should not become preoccupied with any single
> element and should balance the contract type, cost, and profit or fee
> negotiated to achieve a total result---a price that is fair and
> reasonable to both the Government and the contractor.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc165268651 .anchor}**[Proposals, quotes and orders
for Fixed-Price work]{.underline}**\
\
When FP work is drawn from the pre-priced labor categories, the presence
of adequate price competition "APC" (as defined by the FAR) for the task
order requirement, when found to exist by the OCO, [is ordinarily
sufficient to establish the fairness and reasonableness of the price for
the work based upon the bottom line quoted/proposed order
price]{.underline}. FAR 15.403-1(c) (1) & FAR 15.404-1(b) establish the
order of precedence and alternatives for price analysis. The OCO should
determine if prospective order prices are, or are not, fair and
reasonable and document those decisions accordingly. Orders are required
to have fair and reasonable pricing. In the above fact scenario, if
there is not APC the OCO should take additional steps to ascertain if
the pricing is, or is not, fair and reasonable. The OCO has discretion
as to the applicable analysis techniques to accomplish this necessary
review pursuant to the FAR and good business judgment, and should always
document their results. OCOs may include a simple question to support
the analysis of labor category composition being from the basic
contract's pre-priced labor categories or not in their RFQs or RFPs,
that being "Does the direct labor in your quote/proposal consist
entirely of labor from the contract's pre-priced labor categories?",
with a "yes" or "no" choice to be completed by the quoting/proposing
firm. Many OCOs will want to ask for the quotes or proposals to list the
labor categories utilized, and if quotes are proposals are submitted
that show different labor categories than those in the basic contract,
can inquire if the labor categories map over to the contract labor
categories or not as a clarification.\
\
Using the pre-priced labor categories has benefits over using the
contract authority to add in additional labor categories for an order.
When the fixed-price work is expected to only be partially drawn from
the pre-priced labor categories, the portion of the work that is covered
by them should be reviewed per the rules of procedure established in the
last fact scenario immediately above. However, the portion of the work
relying upon basic contract section B.3.1 ("B.3.1" hereafter) of 8(a)
STARS permits inclusion of other direct costs (as defined in the
contract) with or without a handling fee as further explained below.

The mechanics of including other direct costs (as defined in the
contract) have been structured in the contract, are easy to use and
simply need to be executed. FAR 16.505(b) (3), shown below, provides
guidance on pricing such items:

> 16.505 (b) (3) *Pricing orders*. If the contract did not establish the
> price for the supply or service, the contracting officer must
> establish prices for each order using the policies and methods in
> Subpart 15.4.

It is simplest to have the pricing for other direct costs (as defined in
the contract) to be broken out as separate items from the balance of the
services based in pre-priced labor in quotes and proposals in order to
support the price analysis. The [FP work may be awarded for an overall
price]{.underline}, with a not to exceed line item amount for travel
(travel is subject to a customer designated recognized federal travel
regulation), but we recommend additional review of the pricing of other
direct costs to guide the ultimate price analysis decision. [This does
not preclude an offeror from offering a package discount to the overall
bottom line price that was based upon the itemized price build
up]{.underline}. [This does not preclude an OCO from applying FAR
15.404-1, including 15.404-1(f)(1-2)'s treatment of Unit
Price]{.underline}, shown below; it simply recommends due diligence on
the pricing build up leading to the bottom line price before the
application of a discount per FAR 16.505(b)(3) (shown above):

> \(1\) Except when pricing an item on the [basis of APC]{.underline} or
> [catalog]{.underline} or [market price]{.underline}, unit prices shall
> reflect the intrinsic value of an item or service and shall be in
> proportion to an item's base cost (*e.g.,* manufacturing or
> acquisition costs). Any method of distributing costs to line items
> that distorts the unit prices shall not be used. For example,
> distributing costs equally among line items is not acceptable except
> when there is little or no variation in base cost.\
> \
> (2) Except for the acquisition of [commercial items]{.underline},
> contracting officers shall require that offerors identify in their
> proposals those items of supply that they will not manufacture or to
> which they will not contribute significant value, [unless APC is
> expected]{.underline} (10 U.S.C. 2304 and 41 U.S.C. 254(d)(5)(A)(i)).
> Such information shall be used to determine whether the intrinsic
> value of an item has been distorted through application of overhead
> and whether such items should be considered for breakout. The
> contracting officer may require such information in all other
> negotiated contracts when appropriate.

So, while the basic contract provides for the opportunity to charge a
markup to the cost of other direct costs (as defined in the contract),
in order to realize the benefits of FAR 15.404-1(f)(1-2) for price
analysis purposes the conditions stated therein need to be satisfied,
meaning, that if offerors solely base their pricing for other direct
costs on catalog or market prices, and/or if there is APC for the
requirements, it provides a prima-facie case/proof positive of price
reasonableness without having to require further visibility into
component costs barring any patent evidence to the contrary. If the
conditions of 15.404-1(f) (1-2) cannot be deemed satisfied, the OCO
should take additional steps to determine if the pricing is, or is not,
fair and reasonable. The OCO has discretion as to the applicable
analysis techniques to accomplish this necessary review pursuant to the
FAR and good business judgment, and should always document their
results.

Per B.3.1 of the basic contract, travel may be included in orders as a
not to exceed line item. If a handling charge is going to be permitted
for travel, the amount of the charge needs to be predetermined in the
quotes, proposals and orders, and may not exceed the ceiling rate
established in the basic contract. It may be simplest to rule out such a
charge for price reasonableness purposes.

The fixed price work may be paid pursuant to the Payments clause.
Additional FP work may be added via the Changes clause if it is deemed
to be in scope and is subject to the same type of price analysis.

### [Proposals, **quotes and orders for Labor Hour work**]{.underline}

***Entirely drawn from the contract's pre-priced labor categories***\
\
For Labor-Hour task orders, when the work is entirely drawn from the
pre-priced labor categories (which can only occur for pure labor-hour
terms, as time and materials terms will naturally include the use of
materials), the presence of APC for the task order requirement, when
found to exist by the OCO, lends itself to establishing the fairness and
reasonableness of the work. Even when there is APC additional
discretionary steps are available to further ascertain if the pricing
is, or is not, fair and reasonable, including reviewing the proposed
labor mix. It is recommended OCOs take those steps when there is not
APC. In either case (with or without APC), the contract's consistent
labor category structure promotes consistency, advancing the price
analysis considerably. FAR 15.403-1(c) (1) and 15.404-1(b) establish the
order of precedence and alternatives for price analysis. The OCO should
determine if prospective order prices are, or are not, fair and
reasonable and document that decision accordingly. Orders are required
to have fair and reasonable pricing. The OCO has discretion as to the
applicable analysis techniques to accomplish this necessary review, and
should always document their results. Although contractors should
construct their quotes and offers under these terms in a way that the
majority of the work is drawn from the pre-priced labor categories, a
reminder of that in your RFQs and RFPs is a good practice. This type of
commonality will be useful in conducting apples-to-apples comparisons of
quotes and proposals for this type of work. OCOs may include a simple
question to support the analysis of labor category composition being
from the pre-priced labor categories in the basic contract or not in
their RFQs or RFPs, that being "With the exception of travel expenses,
does the direct labor in your quote/proposal consist entirely of labor
from the contract's pre-priced labor categories?", with a "yes" or "no"
choice to be completed by the quoting/proposing firm. Many OCOs will
want to ask for the quotes and proposals to list the labor categories
utilized, and if quotes are proposals are submitted that show different
labor categories than those in the basic contract, can inquire if the
labor categories map over to the contract labor categories or not as a
clarification.

Per B.3.1 of the basic contract, travel may be included in orders as a
not to exceed line item. If a handling charge is going to be permitted
for travel, the amount of the charge needs to be predetermined in the
quotes, proposals and orders, and may not exceed the ceiling rate
established in the basic contract.  It may be simplest to rule out such
a charge for price reasonableness purposes.\
\
The Payments Under Time and Materials and Labor-Hour Contracts clause is
applicable to the labor hours that are drawn from the contract's
pre-established labor categories at the agreed to rates in the task
order, which may not exceed the contract's ceiling rates. Additional LH
work may be added via the Changes clause if it is deemed to be in scope
and is subject to the same type of price analysis.

***Includes labor categories other than those pre-priced in the basic
contract\
***\
The portion of the work that is covered by the contract's labor
categories should be reviewed consistent with the rules of procedure
established in the earlier fact scenario for Labor-Hour work in this
section. Although [contractors should construct their quotes and offers
under these terms in a way that the majority of the work is drawn from
the pre-priced labor categories]{.underline}, a reminder of that in your
RFQs and RFPs is a good practice. This type of commonality will be
useful in conducting apples-to-apples comparisons of quotes and
proposals for this type of work and promoting APC. However, the portion
of the work relying upon the other direct costs portion of B.3.1 for
additional labor categories (as defined in the contract) deserves price
analysis attention as detailed at B.3.1.\
\
It is not sufficient for pricing purposes to rely upon the Payments
Under Time and Materials and Labor-Hour Contracts clause to set prices
of other direct costs (as defined in the contract) under a LH order
which relies upon labor that was not pre-priced in the basic contract,
although the concepts do apply. The mechanics of including other direct
costs for additional labor categories (as defined in the contract) have
been structured in the contract, are easy to use and simply need to be
executed. It is probably simplest to ask for the pricing for other
direct costs for additional labor categories (as defined in the
contract) to be broken out as separate line items since offerors should
formulate, and OCOs should review, that pricing per the contract's
terms, where other direct costs for additional labor categories should
be fully definitized up front in the order, or through order
modifications via the Changes clause as the needs are established
provided they are within the order's overall scope. FAR 15.403-1(c) (1)
& FAR 15.404-1(b) establish the order of precedence and alternatives for
price analysis. The OCO should determine if prospective order prices
are, or are not, fair and reasonable and document that decision
accordingly. Orders are required to have fair and reasonable pricing.
This does not preclude an OCO from applying FAR 15.404-1, including
15.404-1(f)(1-2)'s treatment of Unit Price, shown below; it simply
recommends a little more due diligence on the pricing build up leading
to the bottom line price per FAR 16.505(b)(3):

> \(1\) Except when pricing an item on the [basis of APC]{.underline} or
> [catalog]{.underline} or [market price]{.underline}, unit prices shall
> reflect the intrinsic value of an item or service and shall be in
> proportion to an item's base cost (*e.g.,* manufacturing or
> acquisition costs). Any method of distributing costs to line items
> that distorts the unit prices shall not be used. For example,
> distributing costs equally among line items is not acceptable except
> when there is little or no variation in base cost.\
> \
> (2) Except for the acquisition of [commercial items]{.underline},
> contracting officers shall require that offerors identify in their
> proposals those items of supply that they will not manufacture or to
> which they will not contribute significant value, [unless APC is
> expected]{.underline} (10 U.S.C. 2304 and 41 U.S.C. 254(d)(5)(A)(i)).
> Such information shall be used to determine whether the intrinsic
> value of an item has been distorted through application of overhead
> and whether such items should be considered for breakout. The
> contracting officer may require such information in all other
> negotiated contracts when appropriate.

So, while the basic contract provides for the opportunity to charge a
markup to the cost of other direct costs for additional labor categories
(as defined in the contract), in order to realize the benefits of FAR
15.404-1(f)(1-2) for price analysis purposes the conditions stated
therein need to be satisfied, meaning, that if offerors solely base
their pricing for other direct costs for additional labor categories on
catalog or market prices, and/or if there is APC for the requirements,
it provides a prima-facie case/proof positive of price reasonableness
without having to require further visibility into component costs
barring any patent evidence to the contrary. If the conditions of
15.404-1(f) (1-2) cannot be deemed satisfied, the OCO should take
additional steps to determine if the pricing is, or is not, fair and
reasonable. The OCO has discretion as to the applicable analysis
techniques to accomplish this necessary review pursuant to the FAR and
good business judgment, and should always document their results.

Per B.3.1 of the basic contract, travel may be included in orders as a
not to exceed line item. If a handling charge is going to be permitted
for travel, the amount of the charge needs to be predetermined in the
quotes, proposals and orders, and may not exceed the ceiling rate
established in the basic contract.  It may be simplest to rule out such
a charge for price reasonableness purposes.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc165268655 .anchor}**[Proposals, quotes and orders
for Time and Materials work]{.underline}**\
\
Using the pre-priced labor categories has benefits over using the
contract authority to add in additional labor categories for an order.
The portion of the work that is covered by the contracts labor
categories should be reviewed per the rules of procedure established in
the last fact scenario for Labor-Hour work immediately above. Although
[contractors should construct their quotes and offers under these terms
in a way that the majority of the work is drawn from the pre-priced
labor categories]{.underline}, a reminder of that in your RFQs and RFPs
is a good practice. This type of commonality will be useful in
conducting apples-to-apples comparisons of quotes and proposals for this
type of work. However, the portion of the work relying upon Section
B.3.1 of 8(a) STARS that permits inclusion of other direct costs (as
defined in the contract) deserves price analysis attention as detailed
at B.3.1.\
\
It is not sufficient for pricing purposes to rely upon the Payments
Under Time and Materials and Labor-Hour Contracts clause to set prices
of other direct costs (as defined in the contract) under a Time and
Materials order, although the concepts do apply. The mechanics of
including other direct costs (as defined in the contract) have been
structured in the contract, are easy to use and simply need to be
executed. It is probably simplest to ask for the pricing for other
direct costs (as defined in the contract) to be broken out as separate
line items since offerors should formulate, and OCOs should review, that
pricing per the contract's terms, where other direct costs should be
fully definitized up front in the order, or through order modifications
via the Changes clause as the needs are established provided they are
within the order's overall scope. FAR 15.403-1(c) (1) & FAR 15.404-1(b)
establish the order of precedence and alternatives for price analysis.
The OCO should determine if prospective order prices are, or are not,
fair and reasonable and document that decision accordingly. Orders are
required to have fair and reasonable pricing. This does not preclude an
OCO from applying FAR 15.404-1, including 15.404-1(f)(1-2)'s treatment
of Unit Price, shown below; it simply recommends a little more due
diligence on the pricing build up leading to the bottom line price per
FAR 16.505(b)(3):

> \(1\) Except when pricing an item on the [basis of APC]{.underline} or
> [catalog]{.underline} or [market price]{.underline}, unit prices shall
> reflect the intrinsic value of an item or service and shall be in
> proportion to an item's base cost (*e.g.,* manufacturing or
> acquisition costs). Any method of distributing costs to line items
> that distorts the unit prices shall not be used. For example,
> distributing costs equally among line items is not acceptable except
> when there is little or no variation in base cost.\
> \
> (2) Except for the acquisition of [commercial items]{.underline},
> contracting officers shall require that offerors identify in their
> proposals those items of supply that they will not manufacture or to
> which they will not contribute significant value, [unless APC is
> expected]{.underline} (10 U.S.C. 2304 and 41 U.S.C. 254(d)(5)(A)(i)).
> Such information shall be used to determine whether the intrinsic
> value of an item has been distorted through application of overhead
> and whether such items should be considered for breakout. The
> contracting officer may require such information in all other
> negotiated contracts when appropriate.

So, while the basic contract provides for the opportunity to charge a
markup to the cost of other direct costs (as defined in the contract),
in order to realize the benefits of FAR 15.404-1(f)(1-2) for price
analysis purposes the conditions stated therein need to be satisfied,
meaning, that if offerors solely base their pricing for other direct
costs on catalog or market prices, and/or if there is APC for the
requirements, it provides a prima-facie case/proof positive of price
reasonableness without having to require further visibility into
component costs barring any patent evidence to the contrary. If the
conditions of 15.404-1(f) (1-2) cannot be deemed satisfied, the OCO
should take additional steps to determine if the pricing is, or is not,
fair and reasonable. The OCO has discretion as to the applicable
analysis techniques to accomplish this necessary review pursuant to the
FAR and good business judgment, and should always document their
results.

Per B.3.1 of the basic contract, travel may be included in orders as a
not to exceed line item. If a handling charge is going to be permitted
for travel, the amount of the charge needs to be predetermined in the
quotes, proposals and orders, and may not exceed the ceiling rate
established in the basic contract.  It may be simplest to rule out such
a charge for price reasonableness purposes.\
\
**Task Order Awards/Issuance**

Task orders will ordinarily include the use of standard government
forms, including:

-   GSA Form 300

-   Standard Form 1449

-   DD Form 1155

-   Other authorized agency form

Task orders may be distributed by mail, fax or e-mail. Oral orders are
[not]{.underline} authorized. One copy of orders and the associated
SOW/SOO (along with any subsequent contract modifications) shall be sent
to GSA at the address listed in Appendix I.

## Debriefings

Debriefings are not required by FAR 16.505, however they are encouraged.

## Alternate Dispute Resolution 

Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) procedures increase the opportunity
for relatively inexpensive and expeditious resolution of issues in
controversy. These procedures may be used at any time that the OCO has
authority to resolve the issue in controversy. If the Contractor submits
a claim, ADR procedures may be applied to all or part of the claim. The
Contractor must certify its claim in accordance with FAR 33.207. When
ADR procedures are used after the issuance of a Contracting Officer\'s
final decision, the time limitations or procedural requirements for
filing an appeal of the Contracting Officer\'s final decision are not
altered.

## Order Level Protest 

In accordance with FAR 16.505(a)(9), "No protest under Subpart 33.1 is
authorized in connection with the issuance or proposed issuance of an
order under a Task-Order Contract or Delivery-Order Contract, except for
a protest on the grounds that the Order increases the scope, period, or
maximum value of the Contract".

## OMBUDSMAN Process 

In accordance with FAR 16.505(b)(5) \[and 10 U.S.C. § 2304c(3)\],
complaints related to matters affecting order award may be directed to
the Ombudsman. The Ombudsman for GSA is:

SPECIAL ASSISTANT FOR CONTRACTING INTEGRITY

OFFICE OF ACQUISITION POLICY (MV)

1800 F STREET, NW -- ROOM 4031

WASHINGTON, DC 20405-0002

PHONE: (202) 501-4770

FAX: (202) 501-1986

## Past Performance

At completion of task order performance, the client agency is required
by FAR complete a past performance record for the contractor. We
recognize customer agencies may already have established past
performance systems they routinely utilize (i.e., CPARS or PPIRS), and
they are generally acceptable. We ask that a copy of the past
performance record entered into those systems be transmitted to the 8(a)
STARS GWAC PCO when it is completed. The SBGWAC Center may inquire about
contractor performance from time to time by survey or telephone call.

## Order Close Out & Record Keeping

It is the OCO's responsibility to close out orders per FAR 4.804 and
4.805 \[DFAR 204.804 and 204.805\].

## Claiming Socioeconomic Credit

## [FPDS-NG Reporting]{.underline}

Ordering agency's as well as third party assisted contracting services
are required to report all 8(a) STARS orders in FPDS-NG. Proper
reporting ensures that the agencies are receiving socio-economic credit.

### [Direct Acquisition]{.underline}

Direct acquisition is when agency contracting officers obtain delegation
of authority from the SBGWAC center to utilize the SBGWAC center's
contract vehicles (8a STARS, HUBZone and VETS) in support of their own
agency's procurements.

When an agency places an order directly against the SBGWAC vehicle it is
the agency's responsibility to report that award in the FPDS system.
This will be done via agency specific guidelines and their own agency's
method for reporting these awards (direct FPDS-NG data entry or through
a feeder system). The FPDS-NG user's guide can be located at
[[http://www.fpdsng.com/downloads/FPDS-NG%20User\'s%20Manual.doc]{.underline}](http://www.fpdsng.com/downloads/FPDS-NG User's Manual.doc)

Some of the information being reported will include:

-   Contracting Office Agency ID\* (FPDS-NG user's guide 3.4.1)

-   Contracting Office Agency Name (FPDS-NG user's guide 3.4.2, auto
    populates from the ID above)

-   Contracting Office ID\* (FPDS-NG user's guide 3.4.3)

-   Contracting Office Name (FPDS-NG user's guide 3.4.3, auto populates
    from the ID above)

\* FIPS 95 codes associated with the agency

### [Assisted Contracting Services]{.underline}

Assisted Contracting Services are when an agency chooses to use a third
party to award and administer task orders for them. This is optional and
is a determination made solely by the agency.

If the ordering agency chooses to use a third party to procure the
services for them the third party will typically report the order in
FPDS-NG against the proper contract vehicle. The third party will
typically report information about itself and ALSO report information
about the customer, which gives the agency that chose to use the third
party proper socio-economic credit.

Some of the information reported by the third party about itself
includes:

-   Contracting Office Agency ID (FPDS-NG user's guide 3.4.1)

-   Contracting Office Agency Name (FPDS-NG user's guide 3.4.2, auto
    populates from the ID above)

-   Contracting Office ID (FPDS-NG user's guide 3.4.3)

-   Contracting Office Name (FPDS-NG user's guide 3.4.3, auto populates
    from the ID above)

Some of the information reported by the third party about the customer
includes:

-   Funding Agency ID\* (FPDS-NG users' guide 3.4.5)

-   Funding Agency Name (FPDS-NG user's guide 3.4.6, auto populates from
    the ID above)

-   Funding Office ID\* (FPDS-NG user's guide 3.4.7)

-   Funding Office Name (FPDS-NG User's guide 3.4.8, auto populates from
    the ID above)

\* These IDs are the FIPS 95 codes used by the customer

When using the third party assisted contracting services, it is useful
for the customer to inform the third party of the FIPS 95 funding codes
to use when reporting the Funding Agency ID and the Funding Office ID.

To guarantee the proper socio-economic credit is received, it is
important for the customer to ensure that the FIPS 95 codes are as
specific as desired. If the customer finds that their agency's funding
IDs are not as specific as they would like, this can be updated through
the FIPS update process.

In addition to the above information being reported in FPDS, it is
mandatory for the agency to report the reason for purchase. Please
reference section 3.4.10 of the FPDS-NG user's guide for specific
information regarding this requirement.

This must be a valid value from the [FPDS-NG data
dictionary](http://www.fpdsng.com/downloads/FPDSNG_DataDictionar_111905.pdf).
If program/funding agency code is DOD and product/service code begins
with 70, D3, H170, H270, H370, H970, J070, K070, L070, N070, U012, or
W070, then reason for purchase must not be blank. Otherwise, leave
blank. When the contracting agency or the funding agency is DOD and this
procurement is for computer hardware or services, select a value for the
reason certified by the funding office.

Validation Rule 4E:
[[http://www.fpdsng.com/downloads/FPDS-DES-SDD-validation_rules-DES_121005.doc#\_Toc96502555]{.underline}](http://www.fpdsng.com/downloads/FPDS-DES-SDD-validation_rules-DES_121005.doc#_Toc96502555)

# Industry Partner Guidance

## Subcontracting

All Industry Partners are required to submit a subcontracting report
semi-annually. The reporting period runs from June through November with
reports due December 30^th^ and from December to May with reports due by
June 30^th^. These reports are reviewed by the Small Business GWAC
Center staff for compliance with FAR 52.219-14 Limitations on
Subcontracting. These reports are a mandatory requirement of the 8(a)
STARS contract. An industry partners failure to comply with this
obligation will result in corrective action i.e. performance improvement
plan, option not exercised, and possible termination of contract.

It is the Industry Partners responsibility to verify the current format
and requirements of the subcontracting report prior to submitting. This
format can be viewed on the 8(a) STARS website at
[www.gsa.gov/8astars](http://www.gsa.gov/8astars) by clicking in the
upper left hand corner on the "Contract Library" tab.

## Delegations

It is also a responsibility of the 8(a) STARS Industry Partners to
ensure that any OCO issuing orders against the 8(a) STARS has a
delegation of ordering authority prior to issuing orders against this
contract. No work will be performed, no debt or obligation accrued and
no payment will be made except as authorized by a bona-fide written
order signed by a contracting officer having a delegation of ordering
authority to use the 8(a) STARS contract. If an 8(a) STARS Industry
Partner is unsure if an OCO has delegation of ordering authority, please
contact the Small Business GWAC Center.

## Sales reporting

Industry Partners are required to report sales and pay the Contract
Access Fee (CAF) of 0.75% quarterly in accordance with Section G of the
8(a) STARS contract. The fiscal year is October 1 through September 30.
Quarterly sales and CAF payment are reported/paid at
[https://gwac.gsa.gov](https://gwac.gsa.gov/).

All unit prices for line items quoted (for pre-priced labor categories)
should be fully burdened (inclusive of the entire - regular hourly rate,
fringe benefits, product price, any other indirect charges, profit, and
the 0.75 percent Contact Access Fee (CAF)). When formulating each unit
price, the CAF should be applied last.

Section 508 compliance assurances should be included in all applicable
quotes.

## Notification of Changes

The Industry Partner should notify the Small Business GWAC Center when
changes occur to their companies. The following are examples:

-   Change of Contract Manager

-   Change of Contact Information

    -   Address, Fax Number, Phone Number, Email, Website

-   Change of Ownership (see 52.215-19 Notification of Ownership
    Changes) Section I.2 of the contract

-   Change of Company Name

All Industry Partners are required to register in the Central Contractor
Registration (CCR) located on the Business Partner Network website at
([www.bpn.gov](http://www.bpn.gov/)). Industry Partners will need to
maintain complete up-to-date registrations and diligently monitor their
accounts in CCR. Registrations require annual renewal.

## Performance Matters (see contract for complete listing)

-   The Contractor shall be bound by the terms and conditions in the
    contract and in orders

-   Maximum order amount not to exceed is \$15 billion for the program,
    and decreases by value of orders issued

-   Contractors are required to pay 0.75 percent Contract Access Fee in
    accordance with Clause G.6.1, Contract Access Fee Remittance. (See
    contract for detailed instructions. The GWAC Sales Reporting tool is
    available at <https://gwac.gsa.gov/>.

-   Contractors are required to register in the Central Contractor
    Registration (CCR) in accordance with Clause 52.204-7, Central
    Contractor Registration

-   Contractors are required to recertify their small business status
    prior to exercise of options

-   Contractors are required to keep their contract in compliance with
    the Subcontracting Clauses included in the contract

## Higher Risk Work Scope Areas

The following types of work can be IT services and solutions if
established properly. However, under representation of IT professional
services and overrepresentation of non-IT services and/or products can
occur and is problematic, so we strongly advise due diligence and
consultation with this Center and your legal and technical advisors.

-   **Help Desk**

-   **Call Center**

-   **Software Licensing/Software License Management**

-   **Cabling and Wiring**

-   **Professional Services (i.e. Consulting, Project Management)**

## Not Allowed on 8(a) STARS

-   **Renting** (it is ok for a contractor to enter into rental
    agreements, but the government will not be a party to them)

-   **Leasing** (it is ok for a contractor to enter into leases, but the
    government will not be a party to them)

-   **Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs)**

-   **Cost Contracts**

## Past Performance

Please monitor your organization's status in the various Federal past
performance record systems, such as the Past Performance Information
Retrieval Systems "PPIRS"

([www.ppirs.gov](http://www.ppirs.gov/)) and Contractor Performance
Assessment Reporting System "CPARS"
([www.ppirs.gov](http://www.ppirs.gov/)). Contractors may often provide
input into those records.

## OMBUDSMAN Process 

In accordance with FAR 16.5 disputes related to matters affecting order
award may be directed to the Ombudsman. The Ombudsman for GSA is:

SPECIAL ASSISTANT FOR CONTRACTING INTEGRITY

OFFICE OF ACQUISITION POLICY (MV)

1800 F STREET, NW -- ROOM 4031

WASHINGTON, DC 20405-0002

PHONE: (202) 501-4770

FAX: (202) 501-1986

**Industry Partner - Responsibilities**

# Roles and Responsibilities

GSA is designated by OMB to issue the GWACs under our purview, and with
that designation rests oversight. In addition to reviewing task order
scope and addressing any scope mismatches, GSA reports the following to
the OMB from time to time: statistics on fair opportunity ordering, the
number of tasks that include performance-based statements of work/are
PBSA, task order types, competitive participation for orders, exceptions
to the fair opportunity process, order award values, and socio-economic
breakdown.

**8(a) STARS PCOs**

-   Reside in the Center

-   Have exclusive, non-delegable rights modify 8(a) STARS basic
    contract terms and conditions.

-   Provides advice and guidance to requiring activities, OCOs and
    contractors regarding scope and acquisition regulations

-   Help requiring activities understand how 8(a) STARS can be used to
    meet IT requirements

-   Conducts periodic meeting with 8(a) STARS prime contractors

**REQUIRING ACTIVITY**

-   Defines order requirements

-   Prepares SOW/SOO for order RFQs/RFPs

-   Funds requirements

-   Ensures IT capital planning

-   Assists OCO with quote/proposal evaluation

-   Assists OCO with performance monitoring and appraisal

**OCOs (with delegations of ordering authority for 8(a) STARS)**

-   Serves as the default COR/COTR for orders (may re-delegate to
    requiring activity)

-   Please order(s) per terms of delegation of ordering authority

-   May not modify the basic 8(a) STARS contracts

-   Maintains focus on individual orders

-   Provides fair opportunity to 8(a) STARS contractors

-   Manages order administration

-   Oversees and executes in-scope order modifications

-   Resolves order disputes

-   Performs order close out

Only a warranted contracting officer having order authority (OCO) may
make any required change to a previously issued order and the change
must be in writing. For further information, contact Center personnel at
<8a@gsa.gov> or call toll free at (877) 327-8732.

**Small Business Government-Wide Acquisition Contracts
Responsibilities**

# Appendix I

## *Small Business Government Wide Acquisition Contracts Center* 

**U.S. General Services Administration**

Federal Acquisition Service

Small Business Governmentwide

Acquisition Contracts Center

Room 1076/6FG

1500 East Bannister Road

Kansas City, MO 64131

**Toll free: (877) 327-8732**

**Fax: (816) 823-1608**

[**www.gsa.gov/sbgwac**](http://www.gsa.gov/sbgwac)

[**www.gsa.gov/8astars**](http://www.gsa.gov/8astars)

######## 

######## 

# Appendix II

## *Applicable Documents, Websites and E-mail Addresses:*

**Small Business Governmentwide Acquisition Contracts Center**

[www.gsa.gov/sbgwac](http://www.gsa.gov/sbgwac)

E-mail: 8a@gsa.gov

**How to Contact the GSA Assisted Acquisition Service**

[www.gsa.gov/aas](http://www.gsa.gov/aas)

**Information Technology Solutions Shop On-line Ordering**

<http://it-solutions.gsa.gov/>

**GSA Order ADM 4800.2E**

> <http://www.gsa.gov/Portal/gsa/ep/contentView.do?contentType=GSA_BASIC&contentId=8128&noc=T>
> This Order provides definitions and listings of agencies and other
> activities authorized to use GSA sources of supply and services. It
> also provides definitive guidelines concerning eligibility
> requirements.

**GSAM-General Services Administration Acquisition Manual**

[www.acqnet.gov/GSAM/gsam.html](http://www.acqnet.gov/GSAM/gsam.html)

**Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR)**

[www.acqnet.gov/far/](http://www.acqnet.gov/far/)

**Labor Category Descriptions,**

[www.gsa.gov/8astars](http://www.gsa.gov/8astars) , under 8(a) STARS
Document Library, Section J of the contract

**Section 508 Accessibility Standards**

[www.access-board.gov](http://www.access-board.gov/)

**Section 803 Competition Requirements for Purchases of Services**

**Under Multiple Award Contracts**

[www.acq.osd.mil/dp](http://www.acq.osd.mil/dp)

**Small Business Administration, 8(a) Program**

<http://www.sba.gov/8abd/>

**Appendix IV**

**Vendor Support Center (VSC)**

[**www.gsa.gov/vendorsupportcenter**](http://www.gsa.gov/vendorsupportcenter)

# Appendix III

## *Glossary*

**ACT** Accounting Control Transaction

**CAF** Contract Access Fee

**Center** Small Business GWAC Center

**CO** Contracting Officer

**COR** Contracting Officer's Representative

**Executive Agent** Required designation by Office of Management and
Budget to manage a **GWAC**

**FA** Functional Area

**Fair Opportunity** Fair opportunity to be considered will normally be
provided to all Contract holders in the applicable Functional Area pool
on RFQ/RFP/orders exceeding the 8(a) competitive threshold

**FAR** Federal Acquisition Regulations

**FAS** Federal Acquisition Service

**FTR** Federal Travel Regulations

**GSA** General Services Administration

######### GSAM General Service Administration Acquisition Manual (GSAM) 

**GWAC** Government Wide Acquisition Contract

**IDIQ** Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (see also FAR Part 16)

**IT** Information Technology

**ITSS** Information Technology Solutions Shop,
<http://it-solutions.gsa.gov/>

**JTR** Joint Travel Regulations

**Limitation** See FAR 52.219-14, Limitation on Subcontracting; "at
least 50%

**On Subcontracting** of the cost of contract performance incurred for
personnel shall be expended for employees of the concern." See
<http://www.arnet.gov/far/>.

**Multi-Phased** Approach to order competition where all contract
holders are sent an RFI

**Approach** asking their interest in a particular task using a task
synopsis. All 8(a) STARS contract holders that opt-in/express further
interest are sent the task RFQ/RFP.

**NAICS** North American Industrial Classification System

**ODC** Other Direct Costs. Those costs incurred by the contractor (when
authorized by an order) to obtain supplies or services, including
hardware, software, training, additional labor categories, etc.

**OMB** Office of Management and Budget

**RFQ/RFP** Request for Quote, Request for Proposal

**Task Order** The Government acquires IT services and IT services-based
solution under this Contract by means of orders (task orders) with
specifically defined scopes/requirements deliverables and schedules.
Industry Partners shall only perform work under this Contract as
directed in bona-fide written orders issued by duly delegated and
warranted ordering contracting officers.

**Vendor** The Vendor Support Center (VSC) maintains a staff ready to
assist

**Support Center** vendors in the preparation and submission and
reporting of sales data. The VSC also maintains a website that contains
a wealth of information for contract holders.
<http://www.gsa.gov/vendorsupportcenter>

# Appendix IV

## *Alphabetical Business Category Listing*

Business categories serve as a guide to placement of work with a
functional area, but are not the final answer. Due diligence that
proposed work is a good scope fit with the FA's NAICS code is still a
good idea. Information about reviewing the full NAICS code description
was included on the previous page.

All Other Information Services FA7

Application Hosting FA4

Application Service Providers (ASPs) FA4

Applications Software Programming Services FA1

Automated Data Processing FA4

Broadcasting exclusively on the Internet FA6

Business Process Reengineering (BPR) FA2

**\***Cabling & Wiring FA2

**\***Call Centers FA7

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Services FA2

Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) Services FA2

Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) Services FA2

Computer Disaster Recovery FA5

Computer Hardware Consulting Services FA2

Computer Input Preparation FA4

Computer Operations/Support FA3

Computer Program or Software Development FA1

Computer Programming Services FA1

Computer Software Consulting Services FA2

Computer Software Support Services FA1

Computer Systems Design Services FA2

Computer Systems Facilities Services FA3

Computer Systems Integration Analysis and Design FA2

Computer Systems Integration Design Consulting FA2

Configuration Management FA2

Contingency Planning FA5

Custom Computer Programming Services FA1

Data Capture Imaging Services FA4

Data Entry Services FA4

Data Processing FA4

Data Warehousing FA4

Database Design/Generation FA1

Data Processing Facilities Services FA3

Disaster Preparedness/Recovery FA5

Distance Learning FA7

Document Imaging FA4

Documentation FA5

E-Commerce FA7

Electronic Data Processing FA4

End User Support FA3

Enterprise Architecture Development FA2

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) FA2

Equipment Inventory & Maintenance FA3

Facilities-Based Telecommunications Carriers (except wireless) Local FA8

Hardware/Software Maintenance FA3

**\***Help Desk FA3

Information Assurance and Security FA5

Independent Verification & Validation FA5

Internet Broadcasting FA6

Internet Video Broadcast FA6

IT Capital Planning Management FA2

IT Facilities Management, Operation, & Support FA3

IT Facilities Planning FA3

LAN/WAN Design FA2

Legacy Interfaces/Data Migration FA1

Long-Distance Telephone Carriers FA8

Media Streaming FA4

Microfiche/Microfilm Services FA4

Network Design & Installation FA2

Network Management FA3

Network Systems Integration FA2

Other Computer Related Services FA5

Scanning Services FA4

Software Analysis and Design FA1

Software Installation FA5

Software Programming FA1

Software Testing FA1

Special Interest Portals FA6

Storage Area Networks FA4

Systems Analysis FA2

Systems Integration FA2

Telecommunications Carriers FA8

Telecommunications Networks FA8

Telegram Services FA8

Telephone Carriers (except wireless) FA8

Telephone Installation Services FA8

Telephone-Based Recorded Information Services FA7

Video Broadcasting, exclusively on the Internet FA6

Video Conferencing FA7

Virus Detection/Recovery FA5

Web Broadcasting FA6

Web Design FA1

Web Hosting FA4

Wired Telecommunications Carriers FA8

**\*Considered higher risk business categories -- Statement of Work
review recommended prior to issuing task order. See page 15.**