If you are involved in any business or procurement process, there is a good chance that you are aware of the General Service Administration’s (GSA) Multiple Award Schedule (MAS), which is also referred to as a “Schedule”. If you want to sell to a Federal Agency or to State or Local Government, it is mandatory that you get a schedule. If you are awarded a schedule and establish an ID/IQ, your business turnover will improve. So now, you are probably wondering, “What is a Schedule, and how do I get one?”
The Significance of Schedules
A Schedule is neither a contract nor a marketing strategy. It is an opportunity for your business to gain exposure through the System for Award Management (SAM) to Federal professionals on the lookout for procurement.
There are many businesses with schedules, which means there is a lot of competition for orders from Federal agencies. Currently, there are approximately 16,000+ active contract holders doing $23+ billion worth of business through their GSA schedules.
Determining Schedule Compliance
First, it is important to identify the schedule under which your product offerings or services fall. This can be done with the assistance of GSA consultants, or by checking the Multiple Award Schedule Desk Reference .
- Schedule Suitability: You can also determine if your products fit under a particular schedule by consulting GSA eLibrary, which is a valuable resource.
- Pricing: The best way to assess whether your product pricing is competitive or not is to check against your competitor’s prices on GSA Advantage. In addition, optimizing your prices will improve your sales potential.
- Delivery Compliance: Once you receive orders, your business must adhere to the agreed upon product and service delivery times.
- Qualifications: In order to qualify for a GSA Schedule, businesses must be in operation for at least two years, have a strong track record, and meet specific financial criteria, among other things.
Things to Keep in Mind
There are many steps involved in getting awarded a GSA Schedule. You will also need the following:
DUNS: The Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) is mandatory for registration purposes. This 9-digit number is a unique identification for all businesses across the globe and is managed by Dun and Bradstreet. It also enables you to legally receive payments once you do have your GSA contract.
SAM: Your business size, status, and other relevant details need to be updated annually for System Award Management (SAM).
Performance Assessment: You may be asked to provide details such as invoices pertaining to at least 25 customers so that your business’ performance can be assessed.
Socioeconomic Initiatives
Small businesses that meet certain socioeconomic conditions can benefit greatly from GSA contracts. This is because federal agencies are required to contract with a certain number of small businesses in the following categories: small business, small disadvantaged business, historically underutilized small business zone small business, and woman-owned small business. In addition, service-disabled veteran-owned small business owners (SDVOSBs) receive privileged contracting opportunities with the federal government.
Resources
GSA eLibrary is an amazing resource, providing a wealth of information and details about schedules and so much more. Of the 37+ schedules, the IT Schedule (70) tops the list with an annual revenue of more than $11 billion and the Professional Services Schedule (00CORP) brought in $5 billion in sales.
There are many opportunities for business growth on the GSA market, but it is easier to ensure your success with trustworthy and experienced guides.
