GSA Formatted Product Tool FPT Cancelled

Welcome to Blackfyre, the premier GSA Federal Schedule Consulting firm. We are here to keep you informed about significant changes in the Federal contract landscape. Today, we're focusing on the recent discontinuation of the Formatted Product Tool (FPT) by the General Services Administration. Let's dive into the specifics of this cancellation and what it means for contractors:

Cancellation of the Formatted Product Tool (FPT):

The GSA recently announced its decision to discontinue the FPT. Launched in July 2016, the FPT's primary function was to automate price comparisons by standardizing Manufacturer Part Numbers (MPNs), UPC-A data, and product descriptions. However, due to mixed reviews regarding the tool's user experience and actual efficacy, it has been taken off the shelves.

Early Signs and Stalled Rollout:

The initial rollout of FPT was limited to GSA Schedules 72 and 58 I. Unfortunately, plans to extend the tool to other schedules were halted. The FPT faced criticism for its tedious and time-consuming nature, especially for corporations with extensive catalogs or unique products. It was evident that the automated market comparisons weren't beneficial for contractors with less common or unique offerings.

Impact on Contractors:

The cancellation of the FPT directly affects those under GSA Schedules 72, 58 I, and 66. As a result, contractors who have previously been required to implement the FPT will now return to conventional methods of contract management and price proposal submissions. Following this, the GSA will issue solicitation refreshes to eliminate FPT-related clauses and replace them with legacy or Transactional Data Reporting (TDR) clauses.

Rolling Back FPT:

As a consequence of the FPT rollback, contractors will have to return to using SIP or EDI for GSA Advantage uploads. A mass modification will be dispatched to all contractors currently subjected to FPT post the solicitation refresh. Contractors with pending offers or modifications under the affected schedules will need to take careful note, as they will need to resubmit their proposals under the refreshed solicitations.

Blackfyre's Role:

As your reliable GSA Schedule consultants, Blackfyre is committed to guiding you smoothly through these shifts. Here are some ways we are ready to assist:

• Comprehensive Guidance: We will provide you with timely information and guidance on transitioning away from FPT and how it affects your business.
• Proposal Assistance: In cases where contractors need to resubmit offers or modifications, our team of professionals is equipped to offer expert proposal writing and submission services.
• Contract Management: Our team will help manage your transition, making sure that your contract remains compliant and competitive.

Staying Informed and Proactive:

The cessation of FPT is a critical shift requiring contractors to stay informed and adapt their contract management strategies accordingly. Blackfyre is here to ensure that you have the support and information necessary to transit smoothly and uphold your success in government contracting.

In conclusion, although the cancellation of FPT signifies the termination of a particular method of product standardization and price comparison, it also hints at a return to more conventional methods of contract management. Blackfyre is dedicated to providing the support and guidance necessary to navigate this transition effectively. Contact us today to learn how we can help you adjust to the changes brought about by the discontinuation of FPT and optimize your GSA Schedule strategy. Led by former GSA Schedule Reviewer, we provide the best GSA Schedule Consulting services to navigate the intricacies of government contracting.