The General Services Administration (GSA) Schedule 70, also known as the Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) IT Category, continues to play a vital role in the federal government’s information technology (IT) procurement landscape. This comprehensive contract vehicle offers a vast array of innovative commercial IT products, services, and solutions from thousands of pre-qualified vendors, both large and small businesses.
GSA Schedule 70 provides agencies with competitive, flexible pricing structures and customized terms and conditions, enabling them to access the latest technologies and services. Additionally, the contract offers valuable acquisition and technology guidance from subject matter experts, ensuring that federal, state, local, and tribal agencies can make informed purchasing decisions.
As a fixed-price Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract, GSA Schedule 70 streamlines the procurement process, allowing agencies to efficiently acquire the IT solutions they need. This contract vehicle remains a cornerstone of the government’s efforts to modernize its IT infrastructure and improve service delivery to citizens.
What is GSA Schedule 70?
GSA Schedule 70 is a procurement vehicle that allows federal, state, local, and tribal government agencies to purchase a wide range of commercial IT products, services, and solutions. It is part of the U.S. General Services Administration’s (GSA) Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) program, which offers a streamlined acquisition process and pre-negotiated pricing, terms, and conditions.
Overview of GSA Schedule 70
GSA Schedule 70 provides access to over 7.5 million IT-related items from thousands of vendors. It covers a diverse range of IT categories, including hardware, software, cloud computing, cybersecurity, telecommunications, and more. Government agencies can use this schedule to efficiently acquire the latest technology and IT solutions to support their missions and operations.
Benefits of GSA Schedule 70
- Competitive and flexible pricing: GSA Schedule 70 contracts offer pre-negotiated, government-wide discounts, ensuring that agencies get the best value for their IT purchases.
- Customized contract terms: Agencies can tailor contract terms to their specific needs, such as delivery requirements, warranty coverage, and service-level agreements.
- Free pre- and post-award training: GSA provides free training and support to help agencies navigate the procurement process and effectively manage their GSA Schedule 70 contracts.
- Access to innovative IT solutions: The schedule features a wide range of cutting-edge IT products and services from pre-qualified vendors, allowing agencies to stay on the forefront of technology.
- Support for small businesses: GSA Schedule 70 helps government agencies meet their socioeconomic goals by providing access to a large pool of small business contractors.
Overall, GSA Schedule 70 is a valuable tool that helps government agencies streamline their IT procurement and access the latest technology solutions to support their missions and priorities.
Does GSA Schedule 70 still exist?
Yes, the GSA Schedule 70, now known as the IT Category of the Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) program, continues to be an active and vital procurement vehicle for federal, state, local, and tribal government agencies. This long-standing contract vehicle has remained a reliable source for a wide range of commercial IT products, services, and solutions.
The current contract period for the GSA Schedule 70 (MAS IT) runs from March 6, 2013, through March 5, 2023, ensuring its ongoing relevance and accessibility for government buyers. As the IT industry evolves, the GSA Schedule 70 has adapted to meet the changing needs of the government, maintaining its position as a trusted resource for IT procurement.
Government agencies and procurement professionals can continue to leverage the GSA Schedule 70 (MAS IT) to access a diverse range of IT solutions, including hardware, software, services, and emerging technologies. This comprehensive contract vehicle provides a streamlined and efficient procurement process, enabling agencies to quickly and easily acquire the IT products and services they require to support their missions.
In summary, the GSA Schedule 70, now part of the broader MAS program, remains a vital component of the government’s IT procurement landscape, providing a reliable and accessible platform for agencies to access a wide range of commercial IT offerings.
How to Buy IT Products and Services on GSA Schedule 70
The General Services Administration (GSA) Schedule 70 is a widely used contract vehicle that allows federal, state, local, and tribal government agencies to efficiently purchase a diverse range of information technology (IT) products and services. If your organization is eligible, navigating the process to purchase through GSA Schedule 70 can be a straightforward and cost-effective way to meet your IT needs.
Eligibility for Buying on GSA Schedule 70
GSA Schedule 70 is open to a variety of government entities, including federal agencies, state and local governments, and tribal governments. Additionally, certain non-profit organizations and government contractors may also be eligible to use the Cooperative Purchasing and Disaster Purchasing Programs under GSA Schedule 70.
Steps to Purchase from GSA Schedule 70
- Conduct market research using tools like GSA Advantage and eLibrary to explore the available IT products and services.
- Review vendor catalogs, price lists, and contract terms and conditions to assess the best fit for your requirements.
- Issue a Request for Information (RFI) or Request for Quotation (RFQ) to vendors through eBuy and GSA Advantage.
- Follow the ordering procedures outlined in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 8.4, Federal Supply Schedules, to place your order.
By leveraging GSA Schedule 70, government agencies can streamline their IT procurement process, access a wide range of pre-vetted vendors, and ensure compliance with federal acquisition regulations. Whether you’re looking to buy on GSA Schedule 70, or understand the eligibility for buying on GSA Schedule 70, following the steps to purchase from GSA Schedule 70 can help you maximize the benefits of this valuable contract vehicle.
Buying from Small Businesses on GSA Schedule 70
When it comes to purchasing IT products and services through the GSA Schedule 70, government agencies have a unique advantage – more than half of the vendors on this contract are small businesses. This presents an excellent opportunity for agencies to not only meet their socioeconomic goals but also tap into the innovative solutions and agile mindset that small businesses often bring to the table.
Agencies can set aside specific requirements for one or more socioeconomic categories, such as women-owned, veteran-owned, or HUBZone businesses, when placing orders on GSA Schedule 70. Alternatively, they can indicate a preference for small business vendors during the ordering process. By leveraging the extensive database of small business suppliers within the GSA eLibrary, buyers can easily identify and connect with qualified vendors based on their specific needs and socioeconomic status.
| Socioeconomic Category | Percentage of GSA Schedule 70 Vendors |
|---|---|
| Small Business | Over 50% |
| Woman-Owned Small Business | 17% |
| Veteran-Owned Small Business | 10% |
| HUBZone Small Business | 8% |
By prioritizing buying from small businesses on GSA Schedule 70, government agencies can not only fulfill their socioeconomic objectives but also tap into a diverse pool of innovative and agile IT solutions providers. This strategic approach can lead to improved outcomes and better value for taxpayer dollars.
IT Categories and Solutions Available on GSA Schedule 70
GSA Schedule 70, also known as the Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) IT, offers a comprehensive range of information technology (IT) products, services, and solutions. This valuable contract vehicle provides federal agencies with access to a diverse array of commercial IT offerings, enabling them to meet their evolving technology needs.
Special Item Numbers (SINs) on GSA Schedule 70
The GSA Schedule 70 contract features a variety of Special Item Numbers (SINs) that cover different IT categories and solutions. These SINs allow agencies to easily identify and procure the specific IT products and services they require. Some of the key SINs available on GSA Schedule 70 include:
- Software Products, including operating systems, application software, and security software
- Hardware Products, such as computers, servers, storage devices, and networking equipment
- Professional IT Services, encompassing cloud computing, cybersecurity, IT consulting, and more
- Telecommunications Products and Services, including voice, data, and video solutions
- Electronic Commerce and Subscription Services, providing access to a wide range of digital tools and platforms
Agencies can explore the current GSA Schedule 70 solicitation to view the comprehensive list of available SINs and their respective subcategories. This flexibility allows them to find the commercial IT solutions that best align with their specific needs and mission requirements.
Blanket Purchase Agreements for IT Products and Services
Navigating the vast landscape of IT procurement can be a complex endeavor for government agencies. However, the General Services Administration (GSA) Schedule 70 offers a streamlined solution in the form of Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs). These agreements allow agencies to establish pre-negotiated contracts with GSA Schedule 70 contractors, simplifying the process of meeting their recurring IT needs.
BPAs under GSA Schedule 70 can bring numerous benefits to agencies, helping them to achieve strategic sourcing goals, ensure compliance, and even support socioeconomic objectives. Notable examples of these BPAs include the 2GIT BPA for commercial hardware, software, and services, the GSS for Desktops and Laptops BPA, and the SmartBUY BPA for commercial software.
| BPA Name | IT Products and Services Covered |
|---|---|
| 2GIT BPA | Commercial hardware, software, and services |
| GSS for Desktops and Laptops BPA | Desktop and laptop computers |
| SmartBUY BPA | Commercial software |
By leveraging these blanket purchase agreements on GSA Schedule 70, agencies can streamline their IT procurement processes, ensure compliance with government regulations, and potentially achieve cost savings. This integrated approach to IT acquisition can help government organizations stay agile and responsive to their evolving technology needs.
Other IT Contract Vehicles and Purchasing Programs
While GSA Schedule 70 is a prominent federal IT contract vehicle, the government offers additional options for agencies to access a wide range of IT products and services. These alternative contract vehicles and purchasing programs provide flexible and customized solutions to meet the diverse technology needs of federal departments and organizations.
One such contract is the Governmentwide Acquisition Contracts (GWACs), which allow agencies to procure customized IT services and solutions from pre-qualified industry partners. The GWACs offer specialized expertise and streamlined acquisition processes, making them an attractive option for complex or specialized IT requirements.
Another key program is the Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions (EIS) contract, a comprehensive telecommunications and networking services vehicle managed by the General Services Administration (GSA). The EIS contract enables federal agencies to modernize their IT infrastructure and access the latest technologies, such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, and unified communications.
| Contract Vehicle | Key Features | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Governmentwide Acquisition Contracts (GWACs) |
|
Complex or specialized IT requirements |
| Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions (EIS) |
|
Federal agencies looking to update their IT infrastructure |
These other IT contract vehicles and government IT purchasing programs provide federal agencies with flexible and customized solutions, ensuring they can meet their evolving technology requirements effectively.
How to Sell IT Products and Services on GSA Schedule 70
Navigating the GSA Schedule 70 program as a vendor can be a valuable opportunity to expand your reach and access the lucrative federal procurement market. To become a GSA Schedule 70 contractor, vendors must fulfill specific requirements outlined in the MAS Roadmap guidance.
Requirements for Becoming a GSA Schedule 70 Contractor
The key steps for vendors to sell on GSA Schedule 70 include:
- Ensure your business meets the eligibility criteria, including being a legally recognized commercial entity in the United States.
- Develop a robust capability statement highlighting your company’s experience, expertise, and qualifications in providing the IT products and services you wish to offer.
- Prepare a comprehensive pricing proposal that aligns with the GSA’s pricing policies and guidelines, showcasing your competitive rates.
- Complete the offer submission process, which may include submitting relevant documents, negotiating contract terms, and obtaining necessary certifications.
- Consider leveraging the FASt Lane program, which can expedite the offer submission and review for qualified vendors.
Current GSA Schedule 70 contract holders can also seek to expand their offerings by submitting a contract modification to add new Special Item Numbers (SINs) to their existing agreements.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Business Eligibility | The vendor must be a legally recognized commercial entity in the United States. |
| Capability Statement | The vendor must develop a robust capability statement highlighting their experience, expertise, and qualifications in providing the IT products and services. |
| Pricing Proposal | The vendor must prepare a comprehensive pricing proposal that aligns with the GSA’s pricing policies and guidelines, showcasing competitive rates. |
| Offer Submission | The vendor must complete the offer submission process, which may include submitting relevant documents, negotiating contract terms, and obtaining necessary certifications. |
| FASt Lane Program | Vendors can consider leveraging the FASt Lane program to expedite the offer submission and review process. |
Resources and Support for GSA Schedule 70
The General Services Administration (GSA) provides a wealth of resources and comprehensive support to help both buyers and sellers navigate the GSA Schedule 70 (also known as the Multiple Award Schedule IT) program. These resources are designed to simplify the procurement process and ensure successful interactions within the GSA ecosystem.
One of the key resources available is the GSA Advantage platform, which allows buyers to easily browse vendor catalogs, compare prices, and access detailed product and service information. Additionally, the GSA eLibrary serves as a central repository for contract details, solicitations, and other essential documents related to GSA Schedule 70.
For sellers, the Vendor Support Center offers a range of assistance, from guidance on the GSA Schedule 70 application process to support with contract management and compliance. Sellers can also take advantage of free training sessions, both pre-award and post-award, to build their expertise and enhance their competitiveness in the GSA marketplace.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| GSA Advantage | An online shopping and ordering system that allows buyers to access vendor catalogs and price lists for GSA Schedule 70 products and services. |
| GSA eLibrary | A centralized database containing contract information, solicitations, and other essential documents related to GSA Schedule 70. |
| Vendor Support Center | Provides guidance and assistance to sellers navigating the GSA Schedule 70 application process and contract management. |
| Free Training Sessions | Offer pre-award and post-award training to help both buyers and sellers build their expertise in the GSA Schedule 70 program. |
By leveraging these GSA Schedule 70 resources and the comprehensive GSA Schedule 70 support available, both buyers and sellers can ensure a smooth and successful experience within the GSA marketplace.
GSA Schedule 70 Contract Administration and Management
Maintaining a successful GSA Schedule 70 contract requires diligent administration and management. Contractors must stay compliant with the contract’s terms and conditions, submit required reports and data, and handle any modifications or changes to the agreement.
To ensure proper GSA Schedule 70 contract administration, contractors should focus on the following key areas:
- Compliance with contract terms: Adhering to the pricing, service levels, and other requirements outlined in the GSA Schedule 70 contract is essential.
- Reporting and data submission: Timely submission of sales reports, price adjustments, and other data as per GSA guidelines is crucial for contract management.
- Contract modifications: Navigating the process of making changes to the contract, such as adding new products or services, requires close collaboration with the GSA.
The GSA provides comprehensive guidance and support to help contractors effectively manage their GSA Schedule 70 contracts throughout the life of the agreement. By maintaining strong GSA Schedule 70 contract administration and GSA Schedule 70 contract management practices, contractors can ensure their continued success on the schedule.
Effective contract administration and management are key to the long-term viability of a GSA Schedule 70 contract. By staying compliant, submitting required reports, and managing contract changes, contractors can maximize the benefits of this valuable procurement vehicle.
Future of GSA Schedule 70 and IT Procurement
As the federal government’s primary contract vehicle for commercial IT products and services, GSA Schedule 70 (MAS IT) is poised to maintain its pivotal role in government IT procurement. With the ever-evolving demand for innovative technology solutions, the program is likely to adapt and evolve to meet the changing needs of federal, state, local, and tribal agencies.
Ongoing initiatives, such as the integration of emerging technologies and the expansion of small business participation, will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of GSA Schedule 70 and government IT purchasing. These efforts aim to provide federal customers with access to the latest technological advancements while also fostering a diverse and competitive marketplace for IT services and solutions.
As the federal government’s reliance on technology continues to grow, the importance of effective and efficient IT procurement channels like GSA Schedule 70 will only increase. Agencies will increasingly seek out streamlined contract vehicles that can deliver cutting-edge IT capabilities, enhance mission performance, and drive cost savings – all while ensuring compliance with government regulations and policies.
