GSA (General Services Administration)

Definition

The General Services Administration (GSA) is an independent agency of the United States government established in 1949 to help manage and support the basic functioning of federal agencies. The GSA’s responsibilities include the acquisition and distribution of supplies, provision of office space, and operation and maintenance of federal buildings. Its aim is to reduce costs and improve efficiency within the federal government’s operations, primarily focusing on real estate, procurement, and technological services.

Examples

1. Federal Building Leasing: The GSA leases office space for various federal agencies across the country, ensuring that these entities have the necessary facilities to perform their functions effectively.

2. Public Procurement: GSA handles procurement for federal agencies. This includes securing everyday office supplies to complex IT solutions, ensuring standardized products and services at competitive prices.

3. Government Fleet Management: The GSA oversees the federal government’s vehicle fleet, which includes purchasing, leasing, and maintaining vehicles for federal agencies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the primary function of the GSA?

The GSA’s primary function is to provide centralized procurement for the federal government and manage federal properties, including leases and property sales.

Who does the GSA serve?

The GSA serves all federal agencies by supplying necessary goods and services, managing property, and offering technological solutions.

How does GSA benefit the federal government?

By consolidating procurement efforts and property management under one agency, the GSA reduces costs, increases efficiency, and ensures consistent and standardized management of resources.

When was the GSA established?

The GSA was established on July 1, 1949, by the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act.

Does GSA only handle real estate?

No, aside from real estate, the GSA also manages procurement of goods and services, technological support, and transportation management for federal agencies.

Can private sector companies work with GSA?

Yes, private sector companies can contract with GSA to supply goods and services to federal agencies.

What is GSA Advantage?

GSA Advantage is an online shopping and ordering system that provides federal agencies access to thousands of products and services from government-approved vendors.

Related Terms

Federal Property and Administrative Services Act

A U.S. government legislation enacted in 1949, which established the GSA and aimed to streamline the federal government’s real estate and administrative activities.

Public Buildings Service (PBS)

A division of the GSA responsible for the design, construction, management, and leasing of federally owned and leased properties throughout the United States.

Federal Acquisition Service (FAS)

Another division of the GSA that focuses on procurement of goods, services, and technology for federal agencies.

Government-Wide Acquisition Contracts (GWACs)

Pre-negotiated contracts used by multiple agencies to procure goods and services more efficiently.

SmartPay

The federal government’s charge card program managed by GSA, which allows federal agencies to make purchases securely and efficiently.

Online Resources

1. GSA Official Website
2. GSA Advantage
3. USA.gov on Government Agencies
4. GSA SmartPay
5. GSA Public Buildings Service (PBS)

References

1. General Services Administration. “About GSA.” GSA.gov. https://www.gsa.gov/about-us.
2. Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949, Public Law 152, July 1, 1949.

Suggested Books for Further Studies

1. Federal Government Real Estate Leasing Textbook by GSA

   • A comprehensive guide provided by GSA, detailing the processes and regulations involved in leasing federal real estate.

2. Government Contracting: The Basics for Supporting the GSA Schedule by Steven Koprince

   • A book aimed at businesses looking to understand the ins and outs of contracting with the federal government through the GSA schedule.

3. The Procurement Answer Book: Guide on Federal Procurement by Charles D. Solloway, Jr.

   • Provides insights into procurement policies, practices, and strategies within federal government contracting.

Real Estate Basics: GSA Fundamentals Quiz