On October 1st, the U.S. General Services Administration will be consolidating the current 24 Multiple Award Schedules (MAS) into a single schedule for products and services. This single solicitation boasts a simplified format making it easier for customers to search and purchase your goods and services. One schedule simplifies the offer process by streamlining the process with an easier set of terms and conditions.
The Consolidation process will happen in three phases through the 2020 fiscal year (October 1st, 2019 – September 30th, 2020).
Only partners on Schedule 70 (IT equipment, software and services) and partners on Schedule 84 (law enforcement, security and tactical gear) will be affected by this consolidation. This will not affect Schedule 65IIA (medical) partners.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR YOUR BUSINESS?
What is the benefit for my company?
Consolidation makes it easier to find products and services on Schedule. The goal is to ensure that the same products and services fall under only one large category, subcategory, and SIN at a time. After consolidation, companies offering multiple categories will no longer need to be on multiple Schedules, so there will no longer be a need to “team” with yourself. Your company will be mapped to the appropriate large categories, subcategories, and SINs on the Consolidated Schedule. For your large categories, subcategories, and SINs your company will always be displayed to buyers and with one Schedule, buyers will no longer have to search multiple Schedules looking for your company.
“This change increases GMP’s ability to provide solutions that were previously out of scope with our current contracts.”
Will MAS Consolidation affect GMP’s current contracting abilities?
No. In order for GMP’s contracts to automatically transition to the new single schedule, GMP will accept the updated terms and conditions outlined in the Mass Modification which is set to issue in October or November 2020. With Schedule consolidation, GMP will maintain their current contract numbers. GMP will not need to apply for a new contract number. However, since GMP has multiple contracts, we are partnering with GSA to determine the best solution for our company’s specific needs.
How will GMP’s unique opportunities as a SDVOSB be affected?
One of the major outcomes GSA is trying to achieve with this consolidation is increased competition. Small businesses will have the opportunity to participate and add new categories that were previously only available on other contracts. Small businesses will still be able to use small business set aside SINs.
How does this consolidation affect Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs)?
BPAs established and awarded prior to the completion of consolidation continue in effect until the BPA or the Schedule contract expires, whichever occurs first. Task or delivery orders may be placed against existing BPAs until either the BPA or the Schedule expires, whichever occurs first.
How were Terms and Conditions changed?
Terms and Conditions were streamlined to better align it with the modern-day commercial marketplace without losing any value for the customer or protections for the government. The newly formatted solicitation makes the terms and conditions clear for all stakeholders.
GSA Press Release: https://www.gsa.gov/about-us/newsroom/news-releases/gsa-on-track-to-meet-planned-october-1-deadline-to-debut-new-consolidated-solicitation-for-products-and-services
