The FCP Transition Timeline refers to GSA’s phased schedule for transitioning all GSA Schedule contractors from the legacy Schedule Input Program (SIP) to the new FAS Catalog Platform (FCP). This transition is part of GSA’s catalog modernization effort, which aims to streamline how contractors manage their contract offerings, ensure data consistency across procurement platforms, and improve the overall quality of catalog information made available to federal buyers.
The timeline for this transition varies depending on each contractor’s profile, including contract type, SIN structure, catalog complexity, and the date of the most recent contract modification.
Purpose of the Transition
GSA is retiring SIP in favor of FCP because the legacy system is outdated, labor-intensive, and prone to formatting errors. FCP provides a more modern, user-friendly, and automated interface for catalog uploads and modifications. By transitioning all contractors to FCP, GSA intends to:
- Standardize catalog management processes
- Improve catalog data accuracy and compliance
- Enhance transparency and user experience for both contractors and federal buyers
- Support integration with other GSA systems such as eMod and GSA Advantage
The transition timeline ensures that contractors move to the new system in manageable phases, minimizing disruption to business operations.
Transition Phases
GSA is rolling out the transition in multiple phases, grouped by contractor characteristics and recent activity. The transition phases typically include:
Phase 1 – New Offerors and Recently Awarded Contracts
Contractors who received MAS contract awards after a specific cut-off date are required to onboard directly into FCP. They do not use SIP and instead build their initial catalog through the new platform.
Phase 2 – Contractors with Recent Modifications
Contractors who have submitted recent catalog-related modifications, such as pricing updates or product additions, may be selected for early migration. GSA uses the modification date as a trigger for inviting contractors to onboard to FCP.
Phase 3 – High-Volume or Complex Catalog Holders
Contractors with large or complex catalogs, including those offering thousands of line items across multiple SINs, are transitioned with additional onboarding support. GSA may schedule these transitions later in the process to allow for more guidance and hands-on technical assistance.
Phase 4 – Remaining Legacy Contractors
Contractors who have not submitted recent catalog modifications but remain active on the MAS program are included in the final waves of the transition. GSA will issue notifications to these contractors with deadlines and onboarding instructions.
Contractor Notifications and Requirements
GSA communicates directly with contractors selected for transition via email. The notification includes:
- A request to begin the onboarding process
- A link to FCP training resources and onboarding instructions
- A transition deadline by which contractors must complete migration
- Points of contact for support
Contractors are typically given 30 to 60 days to complete their onboarding and submit their initial catalog action in FCP.
What Contractors Must Do
Once notified, contractors are expected to:
- Access the FCP portal and review training materials
- Complete initial onboarding steps such as business validation and contract linking
- Migrate their existing catalog data into FCP
- Submit an initial Catalog Action (add, delete, or modify) through the system
- Work with GSA catalog reviewers to complete data validation
Contractors must ensure their catalog data in FCP matches their current awarded contract. Any discrepancies must be addressed through a contract modification.
Timeline Considerations and Exceptions
While GSA aims for a complete transition within a defined fiscal year, the actual onboarding timeline for individual contractors may vary due to:
- Contract complexity
- Pending contract actions or audits
- Special contract terms or SIN categories
- Requests for onboarding extensions due to valid business reasons
GSA may grant limited extensions on a case-by-case basis, but contractors are strongly encouraged to begin transition efforts as soon as they are eligible.
Implications of Missing Transition Deadlines
Contractors who fail to comply with the transition timeline may experience:
- Inability to submit catalog modifications through SIP
- Removal of catalog visibility from GSA Advantage
- Delays in processing pricing or product updates
- Risk of falling out of compliance with MAS contract maintenance requirements
To maintain good standing and uninterrupted business operations, contractors should treat the transition as a high priority.
Conclusion
The FCP Transition Timeline is a critical part of GSA’s catalog modernization initiative. By moving all contractors from SIP to FCP, GSA is streamlining catalog management, improving data quality, and enhancing the buying experience for government agencies. Contractors must stay informed about their assigned phase, respond promptly to GSA communications, and complete onboarding within the required timeframe. Transitioning to FCP is not only a compliance obligation but also a step toward more efficient and competitive contract management.
