Discover GSA's key initiatives to watch in 2021, including crucial deadlines, integration plans, and changes that will impact contractors and GSA MAS Contract holders.
The General Services Administration (GSA) has made strides in unveiling several significant initiatives set to shake up 2021. The impact is direct and substantial for any entity conducting business with the federal government, GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) Contract holders, and businesses determining size status. Here's what you need to have on your radar:
The first crucial deadline to mark in your calendar pertains to GSA Advantage MAS Updates. All GSA MAS Contract holders awarded under a legacy schedule will need to update their GSA Advantage catalog and price list to new MAS SINs by March 31, 2021. Lagging behind this deadline could result in catalog removal from GSA Advantage and loss of eBuy access. You can visit the official GSA Advantage! Website to understand detailed guiding procedures.
Changes are on the horizon for all entities engaging with the federal government as Beta.SAM.gov is streamlining its user experience by merging with SAM.gov. On April 26, 2021, users can expect a new Beta.SAM.gov look. This major change in the federal acquisition landscape will fully manifest on May 24, 2021, marking the official integration of SAM.gov and Beta.SAM.gov into a single platform.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) is implementing changes to its business size standards. The average annual receipts calculation period is broadening from a three-year standard to a five-year window. Contractors may choose between these options during the transition period, which extends until January 6, 2022. To gather more information, visit the SBA Size Standards website.
TDR has the potential to become a permanent fixture for all GSA MAS Contractors. This extended pilot program offers significant benefits such as sidestepping the Price Reductions Clause (PRC) and Commercial Sales Practices disclosure. However, Currently, only specific SINs are eligible for TDR. It's recommended to review the TDR Information provided by GSA as it provides in-depth information on eligibility and potential benefits.
GSA sets a deadline to the end of FY 2021 (September 30, 2021) for companies with multiple GSA MAS Contracts under one DUNS number to consolidate them into one. This move enters as Phase 3 in the MAS Consolidation plan, outlining the future of GSA Schedule contracts.
Finally, all GSA MAS Contractors should prepare for the GSA's push to modernize and simplify GSA catalog management. The VPP is being set forth to host authoritative product content. The Catalog Content Provider (CCP) replaces the SIP for catalog uploads to GSA. The timeline for this implementation began in FY 2019 and is expected to extend beyond FY 2022. As part of this initiative, there's a solicitation refresh scheduled for April 2021 to lay groundwork for the VPP.
All these initiatives are building upon GSA's commitment to modernize and streamline the procurement process. Contractors should stay informed and prepared for these changes to ensure compliance and take full advantage of the evolving opportunities within the GSA Schedule framework. With a seasoned team, led by a former GSA Schedule Reviewer, we are proud to offer top-tier GSA Schedule Consulting services.
Remember, staying ahead is all about looking ahead. Embrace these changes as they come and navigate the GSA's evolving landscape with ease.
Pedro has extensive background as a Contracting Officer and Contract Specialist, has worked across seven federal agencies, managing contracts totaling over $1 billion in the professional and tech sectors. His notable tenure includes serving with the DoD/DARPA during the inception of their robotics program. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in initiating the Cyber Special Item Number (SIN) within the GSA's IT Schedule 70 as a Team Lead. After graduating from Harvard, he started Blackfyre to help you win your next contract.
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