GSA MAS Solicitation Refresh 2: A Comprehensive Guide

The General Services Administration (GSA) recently conducted its second solicitation refresh. In this blog post, we will detail the key changes and their impact.

Summary of GSA MAS Solicitation Refresh 2 Changes

Several changes were introduced in Refresh 2, falling under distinct categories. Let's explore these categories one by one.

GSA Advantage Photo Instructions

To minimize product misunderstanding and returns, GSA has made some significant changes on how product photos should be handled (1).

1. Importance: Accurate product representation is crucial to reduce customer confusion and product returns.
2. Requirement: Universal Product Codes (UPC) and product photos must be included for specific Special Item Numbers (SINs).
3. Best Practices: Ideally, include up to four photos per product. Ensure that there are no unrelated props, the text is part of the product, and logos are avoided unless they are part of branding.

New SIN: Fourth-Party Logistics (4PL)

New SINs have been introduced under the Miscellaneous Large Category and Complementary SINs Subcategory (2). 4PL encompasses full solution delivery models that include product, logistical support, transportation, inventory management, and other necessary services.

SIN Corrections

Notable SIN adjustments were made to ensure accurate category alignment (3). For example, SIN ANCRA's eligible subcategories were tweaked, and SIN 541990TAD got recategorized and moved to a different Large Category and Subcategory.

Clause Updates

There were also updates to the service contract clauses (4). Key updates include the removal of references to Paper Price Lists and Modifications, updated Service Contract Act (SCA) Wage Determinations, and the implementation of FAR Rule 2014-002. The latter enforces a government-wide policy for partial set-asides, reserves, and set-asides for small businesses under multiple award contracts.

SIN Changes

Certain SINs have updated titles and descriptions to reflect current offerings and requirements (5). Also, SIN descriptions have been altered to ensure an accurate representation of services.

GSA Advantage Photos/UPC Requirements

Contractors offering products under specific SINs must ensure compliance with photo and UPC requirements (6).

Action Points for Contractors

Post-refresh, there are significant actions contractors must take to stay compliant and maintain optimal GSA Schedule offerings (7).

1. Review and update catalogs to sure that photos and descriptions on GSA Advantage are both accurate and compliant.
2. Stay aware of the new SIN requirements. If the 4PL SIN applies to your offerings, understand it thoroughly.
3. Keep up with the GSA changes to ensure compliance and optimize GSA Schedule offerings.

This refresh signifies GSA's commitment to keeping its schedules and offerings relevant, up-to-date and reflective of changes in market practices and government policies. As led by a former GSA Schedule Reviewer, we offer the best GSA Schedule Consulting services. We encourage contractors to regularly review their GSA Schedule contracts and ensure their offerings align with the latest requirements and opportunities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the GSA MAS Solicitation Refresh 2 brings significant changes that will ensure accurate product representation, introduction of new SINs, and adjustments to existing regulations and standards. Contractors must familiarize themselves with these changes to continue offering compliant GSA Schedule offerings.