GSA Professional Services Schedule About to Get Easier

The General Services Administration's (GSA) announcement of the upcoming refresh to the Professional Services Schedule (PSS), dubbed Refresh 34, presents significant changes that could greatly impact businesses looking to acquire or modify a PSS contract. At Blackfyre, a premier consulting firm for GSA Federal Schedule, we keep up-to-date on these developments to equip our clients with informed and tactical advice. Let us discuss what the PSS Refresh 34 entails and how it may alter how your company approaches GSA contracts.

Significant Changes from PSS Refresh 34:

The updates from the PSS Refresh 34 comprise:

• Reduction in Required Projects: The GSA has decided to lower the prerequisites from two projects to just one per Special Item Number (SIN), pertinent to qualifying for a PSS contract or adding additional SINs to a current contract. This reduction significantly eases the threshold for entry, thus simplifying the qualification process for companies.
• Discontinuation of Predecessor Company Projects: Businesses will no longer have the option to utilise projects from predecessor companies or key personnel as an alternative for their project experience. Thus, companies will need to depend exclusively on their direct experience to qualify.
• Continued Use of Single Project for Multiple SINs: Companies can persist in using a solitary project to qualify for several SINs, as long as the work done in the project supports the qualification criteria for these SINs.

Timeline and Impact:

Here is what to expect concerning the timeline and impact of the updates:

1. Anticipated Issue Date: The GSA predicts that it will issue the Refresh 34 around March 15. It is vital to keep an eye on GSA Interact and the Federal Business Opportunities (FBO) solicitation posting, as the requirements will change following the refresh.
2. Impact on Existing Contract Holders: For those who already have a GSA PSS Contract, no immediate action is necessary. This refresh does not require a mass modification. However, if you aim to add more SINs, the process will become more straightforward post-refresh.

Strategic Considerations for Your Company:

We have identified two vital strategic considerations for your company:

• For Those Awaiting to Build More Experience: If your company has been waiting to acquire more project experience before applying for a PSS Contract or new SINs, these changes mean you might qualify earlier than expected. It's a timely opportunity to reassess your standing and prepare for either the application or modification.
• For New Offer Submissions: If your offer is prepared, and you meet the two-project requirement, you may proceed with the submission promptly. However, you can also decide to wait until after the refresh is issued if your preparations are still ongoing. By this, you will gain from the reduced requirement.

Why GSA is Issuing PSS Refresh 34:

The GSA identified the enormous burden faced by companies and itself in preparing and assessing proposals with multiple project write-ups, especially since the consolidation of seven formerly standalone schedules into the PSS in 2015. By decreasing the project requirement, the GSA aims to streamline the process. In so doing, it makes the procedure more efficient for the agency and businesses seeking contracts.

Possibility of Expansion to Other Schedules:

While there is currently no official plan, the GSA is optimistic that the success of this simplified approach in the PSS could inspire similar changes in other schedules, such as the IT Schedule 70. However, businesses are advised to wait for official announcements before predicting any modifications in other schedules.

Navigating PSS Refresh 34 with Blackfyre:

Blackfyre, as your trusted GSA schedule consultants, are committed to helping you navigate these modifications efficiently. We can assist you in evaluating your eligibility, preparing your proposal or modification, and negotiating with GSA for approval.

With over three decades of experience, our team is adept at steering through the intricacies of GSA schedules. We ensure that your firm can seize these new opportunities effectively. Stay proactive and informed with Blackfyre as your reliable partner in GSA Federal Schedule Consulting.

Do not hesitate to contact us to discuss how we can assist your company in capitalising on PSS Refresh 34 to your benefit. Together, we are poised to navigate the ever-evolving terrain of GSA schedules and position your company for success in the government marketplace. With the leadership of a former GSA Schedule Reviewer, we offer top-notch GSA Schedule Consulting services.