On May 20th, a Request for Information (RFI) was posted for the next Federal Strategic Sourcing Initiative (FSSI). The RFI is requesting information for Desktops and Laptops. The RFI indicates that the FSSI is “established to develop a framework and strategy for addressing multiple interagency vehicles in the information technology workstation space (laptops, desktops, etc.) to manage the spend, reduce costs, and increase value through application of strategic sourcing principles.”
GSA’s FSSI program was created to establish Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) that allow a limited number of awarded vendors to compete and provide specific services or products to Federal agencies. GSA has already utilized their FSSI program for BPAs in Office Supplies, Maintenance, Repair & Operations Supplies, and others.
GSA has claimed success by publishing that the BPA’s have saved taxpayers millions of dollars. However, it is not clear if the savings stated are from comparisons to commercial pricing or from comparisons to pricing currently offered by other vendors that are not part of the strategic sourcing but already on a GSA Schedule. We have seen evidence that the savings are minimal when compared to other Schedule holders.
In addition, GSA says that they have subcontracted over 70 percent to small businesses through the FSSIs. What they don’t tell you is that it only includes the very limited number of small businesses awarded to the BPA. There is a current GAO protest to this effect.
Like it or not, this is the trend in federal contracting and it does not appear to be waning. If you manufacture or sell products to the Federal Government join our blogs and GSA Interact to stay ahead of future FSSI opportunities.
If your company provides laptops and desktops, it is vital to respond the RFI. Should you have any questions on the FSSI or upcoming BPAs feel free to contact Coley by phone at 210-402-6766 by email at hello@coleygsa.com or schedule a call.
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