Feasibility of Using a Multiple Award Schedule for Specifying Paints inGovernment Painting Contracts

摘要

The Department of Defense is placing increasing emphasis on the use ofcommercially available or branded products in lieu of Military or Federal Specification products in building construction and maintenance. However, there are few industry consensus specifications for paints and coatings. Although non-government consensus coating specifications are being developed, a General Services Administration Federal Supply Schedule provides an additional mechanism through which Federal agencies can obtain commercially available coatings. Specifically, the use of a Multiple Award Federal Supply Schedule in a military painting contract is discussed in the report. Procedures for obtaining the lowest cost material that would meet the Government's minimum needs are addressed. A description of need based upon performance criteria for the specific end use, that would be included in a painting contract, is suggested. Advantages and disadvantages of using a Multiple Award Schedule in painting contracts are enumerated. Advantages include providing a mechanism for using new coating technology, taking advantage of manufacturer's technical support and knowledge of regulatory issues, and decreasing the need for revising or preparing new coating specifications. Disadvantages include the additional effort needed to revise guide specifications, train both coating users and suppliers in new procedures and the lack of performance criteria for some end uses. Despite the disadvantages cited, it is concluded that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages and that use of a Multiple Award Schedule in painting contracts is feasible.