# Simplified Acquisition Procedures Course Canonical URL: ## Overview Learn the basics of simplified acquisition procedures necessary for those involved in making some of the millions of purchases of essential products and services required by federal agencies. Learn how to perform better by using the latest electronic enhancements in the acquisition process. Learn about GSA schedules and other sources of supply that will make your job easier. ## What you'll learn - Clearly state customer requirements. - Locate sources of supply. - Solicit for competition. - Receive and evaluate quotations. - Prepare appropriate documents. - Use appropriate purchasing methods. - Make contract awards. - Ensure contract performance complies with requirements. ## Curriculum #### Module 1: Overview of Simplified Acquisition Procedures - Understand the purpose, policy, and goals of simplified acquisition procedures (SAP). - Identify the simplified acquisition threshold and related exceptions. - Recognize prohibited practices like breaking down purchases to fit thresholds. - Compare SAP with other methods such as sealed bidding and negotiation. - Explore the types of simplified acquisition methods. #### Module 2: Governmentwide Commercial Purchase Card - Define micro-purchases and the micro-purchase threshold. - Understand the SmartPay program and its structure. - Explore roles and responsibilities of cardholders and approving officials. - Recognize authorized and unauthorized card usage. - Review procedures for card use, recordkeeping, and disputes. #### Module 3: Purchase Orders - Learn the process and requirements of issuing purchase orders. - Understand unpriced purchase orders and their applications. - Identify evaluation, competition, and documentation procedures. - Explore payment methods and fast payment procedures. - Recognize conditions for cancellation and contract termination. #### Module 4: Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) - Define BPAs and understand their advantages. - Distinguish between FAR 13 and GSA Schedule BPAs. - Review procedures for establishing and using BPAs. - Understand BPA limitations, required contents, and authorized users. #### Module 5: Other Simplified Acquisition Methods - Examine Imprest Funds and Third-Party Drafts. - Understand the use of Standard Form 44. - Determine the appropriate context for each method. #### Module 6: Required Sources of Supplies and Services - Identify required sources listed in FAR Part 8. - Differentiate between supply and service sources. - Understand agency obligations when selecting sources. #### Module 7: Simplified Procedures for Certain Commercial Products and Commercial Services - Explore FAR Subpart 13.5 procedures for commercial products and commercial services. - Understand increased thresholds for commercial acquisitions. - Learn when and how to apply these procedures. #### Module 8: The Federal Supply Schedules Program - Understand the role of the General Services Administration (GSA). - Identify features of the Federal Supply Schedules. - Review ordering procedures and office responsibilities. #### Module 9: Small Business Contracting Policies - Recognize the role of the Small Business Administration (SBA). - Define small business size standards and set-aside rules. - Understand Certificates of Competency and the Nonmanufacturer Rule. #### Module 10: Small Business Socioeconomic Contracting Programs - Learn the scope and purpose of the 8(a) Business Development Program. - Understand HUBZone and SDVOSB program requirements. - Explore eligibility and benefits of the WOSB Program. ## Schedule - Aug 24, 2026 – Aug 28, 2026 — Live Online - Nov 16, 2026 – Nov 20, 2026 — Live Online ## Instructors ### Anna Garcia-Durr — Instructor Ms. Garcia-Durr is a highly respected acquisition expert and retired U.S. Army officer with over 35 years of combined military and federal civilian service in logistics, contingency operations, and acquisition leadership. A former Contingency Contracting Officer, Anna brings operational insight from combat zones, austere environments, and disaster response operations directly into the training environment. She held senior leadership roles across the Department of State, Department of Homeland Security, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives—managing multi-billion dollar portfolios and overseeing mission-critical procurement in domestic and international settings. She is also a seasoned instructor and mentor, having trained hundreds of acquisition professionals, CORs, and program teams to exceed performance and compliance goals. She equips today’s acquisition professionals with the insight, precision, and mission-driven mindset needed to confidently lead and execute procurements in any acquisition environment. Anna holds a Juris Master in Corporate Compliance and Contracts and graduate certificates in Contract Management and Program/Project Management. Her certifications include Certified Federal Contract Manager (CFCM), DAWIA Level III (Contracting), and FAC-C / FAC-COR Level III. ### Jeff Hysen — Instructor Jeff Hysen has been with GSUSA since 2020, teaches numerous classes, and has received several awards for his work. Before joining Graduate School USA, Jeff was an Assistant Regional Counsel with the General Services Administration for 31 years. At GSUSA, Jeff served as the lead counsel on Ethics issues for the National Capital Region and worked on numerous projects across various fields. In addition to his work with GSUSA, Jeff is a podcast host and stand-up comedian. ### Melanie Dooley — Instructor Melanie Dooley is a seasoned expert in federal acquisition and contracting with more than three decades of experience spanning government, industry, and education. She has built a distinguished career as both a practitioner and educator, serving as a Vice President of Acquisition Policy for SAIC, a managing editor for the _Federal Contracts Report_ at Bloomberg BNA, and an instructor and curriculum developer for Graduate School USA. Her background includes deep knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes, the federal budget and appropriations cycle, and the intricacies of acquisition policy. She has also cultivated an exceptional ability to translate complex policy and contracting issues into practical guidance, having trained members of the defense and civilian acquisition workforce at all levels. In addition to her leadership roles, Melanie brings corporate strategy experience, extensive editorial expertise from her years in the trade press, and a strong record of shaping acquisition policy within a major defense contractor. She is a Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) and a Fellow of the National Contract Management Association, where she has held leadership roles including VP of Programs and Fellows Chair. With an MBA from Georgetown University and a reputation for clarity, rigor, and real-world insight, Melanie has become a trusted resource to federal professionals, corporate leaders, and students alike. ### Alan McCain — Curriculum Program Manager Alan McCain is a retired combat veteran who served as both an Air Force enlisted member and a Navy officer. He brings over 30 years of experience spanning federal and commercial budgeting, auditing, programming, operations, global logistics support, supply chain and inventory management, as well as major IT acquisition. He possesses extensive, hands-on budget and audit experience across Federal, State, and Local government operations, including work within the Executive Office of the President and the Departments of State, Defense, Homeland Security, Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, and Education, as well as the Office of the Mayor of Washington, D.C., among others. Alan’s consulting background includes strategic planning and business development with the District of Columbia government, multiple federal agencies, Lockheed Martin, KPMG, and PricewaterhouseCoopers. He is a Certified Government/Defense Financial Manager (CGFM/DFM), holds a Teaching Certification from Harvard University’s Bok Center for Teaching and Learning, and earned an Executive MBA in International Business from The George Washington University. ## Pricing **Tuition:** $1650