Acquiring a GSA Schedule contract is tough and the process is quite complex. The process is not only about completing a few GSA application forms and attaching some documents.
In order to become a contractor in the GSA schedule program, you need to go through a process that includes:
A comprehensive review of all the GSA Solicitation documents,
Determining a sound and comprehensive pricing strategy of the GSA,
Properly disclosing sales practices as it is required by law,
Preparing and submitting a GSA proposal,
Going through due diligence and negotiation process of the GSA.
Wondering why there is no mention of the GSA schedule application? It is because the GSA schedule application does not exist. Obtaining a GSA contract involves developing a comprehensive federal proposal process.
In this blog, we are going to discuss the procedure of obtaining a GSA Schedule contract which also includes completing and submitting all the required documents which are often called GSA applications. You will get to know about the process precisely. We will also break down all the misconceptions that you may have regarding the subject matter.
Misconception about GSA application
We have already said that there is no such thing as a GSA Schedule application. People often have a misconception that they only need to fill out some application form and GSA will consider giving them a contract.
Actually, obtaining a GSA contract requires responding to a comprehensive GSA solicitation that is appropriate to your business. The GSA contract officers utilize this information to make a responsibility determination. After GSA decides that you are the responsible vendor they move on to negotiating the most favored customer pricing.
Develop and submit a comprehensive quality proposal of the GSA
A GSA proposal or GSA offer is a series of documents that typically includes a detailed technical proposal.
In detailed description of your company’s products and services.
Demonstrate that they fit perfectly within the scope of the schedule.
Certain operational information.
Proof of quality past performance and clients who are satisfied.
Note that the price proposal is the most challenging part which requires careful and thorough disclosures of prior discounting practices.
Price proposal and discounting disclosures
Negotiating price with the General Service Administration (GSA) is quite complex and tough, especially when you have complex discounting practices or loose pricing practices. Without proper disclosers, you may end up with an unprofitable contract or you may risk severe penalties under the price reduction clause of the GSA.
Get help from an experienced GSA consultant
You need an experienced and trusted GSA consultant, not a "GSA processor". GSA consultants should not just focus on guiding you through the process. Rather, you should work with GSA's senior consultants, who are more experienced. The benefits of contracts are great, but the risks of negotiating a flawed contract are especially dangerous.
Understand the procedure
We have divided the procedure into four main stages:
The first stage – in this very first stage applicants prepare and submit the required documents and proposal to the General Service Administration (GSA).
The second stage – In this stage, review, and clarification of GSA are involved.
The third stage – In this stage government agencies go through the process of GSA contract negotiation with the commercial companies of the applicants to come to a point.
The fourth stage – Commercial companies get rewarded with GSA contracts.
So these are the stages that you will need to cover and complete successfully without making any mistakes. After you are done completing these stages, you will be able to win GSA Schedule contracts.
Get ready to acquire a GSA Schedule contract
Preparing a perfect GSA proposal requires in-depth knowledge regarding the following aspects.
GSA Schedule solicitation documents – which are about 200 pages or more than that.
Knowledge of government contract regulations which are also known as Federal Acquisition Regulations.
Experience in disclosing commercial sales practices and discounting practices to avoid fines, claims, and disbarment.
Experience in GSA negotiations so that applicants don’t give up giving away the store.
Vast experience in federal marketing so that pricing and positioning are established properly in your GSA contract.
Conclusion
So now you know everything about the process to acquire a GSA Schedule contract. Go through the process of the GSA Schedule application carefully without making any mistakes. After obtaining the GSA certification your business will be benefitted for sure in different ways.
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