In the same way, FAS needs to update its process for awarding MAS contracts, according to Kempf. GSA is looking at an upgraded enterprise acquisition solution as the next step for each of FAS’ contracting areas. It’s a completely automated system, from researching the market for a product or service through until the contract is closed out. The tools will help FAS’ employees work more efficiently in awarding and then managing contracts, Kempf said.

In the next couple of weeks, Kempf will be rolling out some overall strategic changes to the MAS program. The new strategy will show where FAS is heading and its approach in getting there, Kempf said.

FAS has worked through problems with its systems and operations, he said. For instance, FAS officials have been working on employing some of the recommendations from the Multiple Award Schedule Advisory Panel, which submitted a report in January on ways to improve the MAS program.

The strategic plan also heeds the Obama administration’s priorities, such as transparency and awarding “the right kinds of contracts,” he said.

The administration has pushed agencies to avoid the types of contracts that can carry more risk with them, such as cost-reimbursement, sole-source and time-and-materials contracts. Officials want the government to award contracts that have a fixed price from the outset.

The strategy going forward “will largely be in context of this administration, GSA’s current thinking and then finally where FAS wants to take the Schedules program,” he said.

General Services Administration Administrator Martha Johnson named Kempf FAS commissioner on July 13, after serving as acting commissioner for more than three months.