What contract method should agencies use for all purchases of supplies or services not exceeding the Simplified Acquisition Threshold?

The correct choice refers to the FAR Part 13 Simplified Acquisition Procedures, which are specifically designed for efficiently and effectively procuring supplies and services that do not exceed the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (SAT). This method simplifies the procurement process, allowing agencies to award contracts with reduced administrative burden and minimum formalities.

Using FAR Part 13, agencies can take advantage of streamlined documentation, fewer regulatory requirements, and flexibility, which is particularly useful for small purchases. This is crucial for promoting small business participation and improving the overall speed of the procurement process for lower-value purchases.

The other methods mentioned serve different purposes and have different thresholds and requirements. For instance, FAR Part 14 Sealed Bidding is more formal and typically used for larger contracts, while Two Step Sealed Bidding is intended for complex requirements that may not be well-defined. FAR Part 15 Negotiated Contracts involve more elaborate procedures suitable for higher-value contracts or where there is a need for negotiation, which is not necessary for transactions below the Simplified Acquisition Threshold. Therefore, for purchases not exceeding the SAT, using the Simplified Acquisition Procedures aligns perfectly with the goals of efficiency and accessibility in government contracting.