In a strategic move to enhance the appeal of the MAS Schedules Program, the General Services Administration (GSA) has undertaken a significant overhaul. Effective October 1st of this year, GSA is reverting to its roots by consolidating the existing 24 Schedules into one streamlined structure. If you hold a VA contract, rest assured, as this change will not impact your existing contract; it remains unaffected.
The Phases Unveiled
Phase I: Embracing the New Solicitation (October 1st, 2019)
As of October 1st, 2019, a new solicitation will be released for companies seeking to obtain a GSA Contract. This marks the initiation of the first phase where businesses can delve into the opportunities presented by the consolidated Schedule. It’s a pivotal moment for those aspiring to join the GSA family, as they will navigate the updated framework designed to simplify and streamline the acquisition process.
Phase II: Transition for Current GSA Contract Holders (January 1st, 2020)
Come January 1st, 2020, the second phase kicks in, primarily targeting companies already holding a GSA Contract. Success in this phase hinges on embracing the mass modification that accompanies it. This comprehensive modification encapsulates all the terms and conditions of the freshly consolidated Schedule. Once a company accepts this mass modification, it gains the ability to augment its existing contract with SINs (Special Item Numbers) that were previously inaccessible. For instance, if a company currently holds a Schedule 84 contract but seeks to include SINs from 23V for specialty vehicles, accepting the mass modification facilitates this expansion seamlessly.
Phase III: A Paradigm Shift (April 1st, 2020, through 2025)
The third and substantial phase, spanning from April 1st, 2020, through 2025, involves the consolidation of companies holding multiple GSA Contracts into one. This phase also introduces a noteworthy change in the structure of SINs, now leaning towards NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) based categories. This strategic shift simplifies the purchasing decision for buyers, offering clarity and efficiency. Additionally, companies aspiring to secure a GSA Contract will witness a beneficial alteration—those already engaged in federal government work can leverage their CPARS (Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System) past performance, eliminating the need for an Open Ratings Report.
A Valuable Resource
In conjunction with our blog updates, we recommend exploring the GSA’s training video. This valuable resource provides visual insights into the upcoming changes, offering a comprehensive overview and practical guidance on navigating the new consolidated Schedule.
Embracing Change for Future Success
In the ever-evolving landscape of government contracts, adapting to change is not just a necessity; it’s a strategic advantage. The GSA’s initiative to revamp the MAS Schedules Program reflects a commitment to efficiency and transparency. Companies that proactively engage with these changes position themselves for future success, unlocking new possibilities and streamlining their journey within the federal procurement ecosystem.
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