The GSA Federal Supply Schedule issued these Guidelines for helping Government agencies in determining a best value purchase utilizing a Multiple Award Schedule Contract.

FAR8.4 tells us that you should make a best value determination before placing Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) Orders above the micro-purchase limit (currently $2,500).  For orders over $2,500, but under the Maximum Order (MO), simply review at least three price lists.  For orders over the MO, review additional price list/Use GSA Advantage! And generally seek a reduced price from those contractors appearing to offer the best value.  Orders under $2,500 may be placed with any schedule contractor.

• Did you receive the required number of sources under 
  Federal Supply Schedule?  
• List Contractors Names
• Are you buying the lowest priced item?
• If NO, indicate the factors considered in your best value decision below:
  • Price
  • Special features that are required in effective program performance that are not provided by a comparable item
  • Trade-in Considerations
  • Probably life of the item selected as compared with a comparable item.
  • Warranty considerations
  • Maintenance Availability
  • Past Performance (e.g., experience)
  • Environmental and energy efficient considerations
  • Comfort/Suitability of the item
  • Delivery Time
  • Your administrative Cost
  • Training needed or provided
  • Technical Qualifications
  • Other (Specify)

If you have considered the factors above to chose the item (s) which overall will provide the best value, then you have made a best value determination.