Tag: Government Acquisition

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Launching the OneGov Strategy, for IT

Over the past few years, GSA has been steadily building a smarter, more coordinated approach to federal IT buying. We’ve made real progress—from streamlining cloud acquisition to standing up the Governmentwide Microsoft Acquisition Strategy (GMAS), which helped us negotiate stronger terms and more consistent pricing for agencies across the board.

Today, we’re taking the next step with the launch of the OneGov Strategy.

This new strategy sets a governmentwide direction for how we acquire and manage information technology—starting with commercial software. It reflects a broader shift in how we think about IT: not as a set of individual purchases, but as an interconnected system that powers everything from citizen services to national security.

Acting as one

The idea behind the OneGov Strategy is simple: the federal government should act as a single, coordinated enterprise when it comes to buying. That means:

  • Reducing duplication
  • Leveraging shared standards
  • Driving greater value for taxpayers

It also means adapting to how technology is built and sold today. We’ve moved from buying boxed software every few years to subscribing to dynamic, cloud-delivered tools. But in many cases, our acquisition models haven’t grown to accommodate the changes in technology.

This creates friction for agencies, reduces transparency, and makes it harder to manage cost and risk.

Starting with software

We’re starting with enterprise software because that’s where the need—and opportunity—is most urgent. Software licenses have become more complex, more expensive, and more critical to agency missions. Yet the federal government still largely buys software through resellers, which limits visibility, complicates invoicing, and creates gaps in accountability.

By shifting to direct relationships with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), we can give agencies better tools, more predictable pricing, and stronger cybersecurity protections.

We’re not eliminating the value-added support that resellers and integrators provide—but we are modernizing how those roles are defined, and who holds the contract with the government.

Building on our successes

This isn’t our first step in this direction. With GMAS, we brought together agencies across government to improve how we buy Microsoft products—and created a new, scalable model for enterprise negotiations. With GMAS we improved terms and conditions, enhanced cybersecurity measures addressing critical risks in government IT systems and secured commitments to develop enhanced governmentwide support and education capabilities.

Another major step forward came through a landmark agreement with Google, which significantly lowered the cost of Google Workspace for all federal agencies. Through this partnership, GSA secured pricing that reflects the full buying power of the federal government.

These successes show what’s possible when we partner directly with industry to simplify acquisition, increase transparency, and create real savings.

The OneGov Strategy takes that same spirit of collaboration and scales it across the broader procurement landscape. Software is just the beginning. Over time, this strategy will guide how we approach hardware, platforms, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and more.

What’s next

We’ll continue working closely with our partners across government and industry to implement this strategy in a way that’s thoughtful, flexible, and effective.

If you’re an agency CIO, acquisition lead, or IT buyer, you’ll see more options that are easy to use, easy to understand, and backed by the full weight of enterprise demand.

If you’re a software OEM, you’ll have a clearer path to partner directly with the government at scale.

And if you’re a taxpayer, you’ll benefit from a government that spends smarter and operates more effectively.

The future of government IT starts here—with smarter buying, stronger partnerships, and a shared commitment to better outcomes. The OneGov Strategy sets the foundation for how we move forward: as one government, with a clear plan to modernize, secure, and streamline how we invest in technology.

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Fortifying the supply chain: GSA awards SCRIPTS BPAs

April is National Supply Chain Integrity Month, and this year’s theme is “Fortify the Chain.” Raising awareness of the importance of secure supply chains, especially information and communications technology (ICT) supply chains, is more important than ever. 

The government’s supply chains are critical to U.S. economic and national security, supporting all U.S. critical infrastructure, and they’re often targeted by adversaries. Government agencies were the third-most targeted sector for ransomware attacks in 2023, which was 74% higher than the previous year. The average cost of a data breach in the U.S. amounts to $9.36 million. These attacks can disrupt the services Americans rely on every day, from transportation and healthcare to emergency response systems and defense readiness.

Last month, GSA took steps to help the government fortify and better protect supply chains when we awarded Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) under our new Supply Chain Risk Illumination Professional Tools and Services (SCRIPTS) program to nine industry partners. These awards provide federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies with streamlined access to commercial tools and services that help identify and manage supply chain risk.

The SCRIPTS BPAs make it easier for agencies to get the supply chain risk data they need to protect their missions. These BPAs offer a comprehensive solution and a centralized approach that will greatly enhance the government’s ability to effectively and efficiently mitigate the ever-increasing supply chain risks in today’s complex and interconnected technological landscape.  

Enhancing supply chain visibility and security

Strengthening America’s security starts with securing its supply chains. The SCRIPTS BPAs provide agencies with powerful business intelligence tools and professional analytic support to identify and mitigate risks before they become threats. By vetting vendors, assessing supplier networks, and enabling real-time monitoring, these resources help safeguard the nation’s critical supply chains from fraud, abuse, and exploitation. Ensuring that suppliers are reputable, financially sound, and operationally secure strengthens America’s economic and national security—putting the country’s interests first.

Maximizing cost savings for government agencies

We’ve negotiated significant enterprise-wide discounts with leading supply chain and analytics tool providers. The implementation of the SCRIPTS BPA will deliver substantial cost savings for the government, with an estimated $66 million in savings—reducing costs by 57% at the BPA level alone.  

These efforts align with President Donald J. Trump’s recent Executive Order 14240, which calls for centralized procurement. As agencies issue task orders under this agreement, additional savings are expected at the order level. Beyond federal agencies, this whole-of-government approach extends cost efficiencies to state, local, tribal, and territorial governments, ensuring broad financial benefits through the use of the SCRIPTS BPA.

Supporting federal supply chain security priorities

This initiative also aligns with Executive Order 13873, signed by President Donald J. Trump in 2019, which focuses on securing the information and communications technology and services supply chain. It also supports broader federal efforts to enhance supply chain resilience and safeguard national security.

With SCRIPTS, we’re making it easier for agencies to proactively manage supply chain risks while ensuring the integrity of the vendors they rely on. We look forward to working with our partners to strengthen America’s security and trust across government supply chains.

For more information regarding the SCRIPTS BPA, please visit the SCRIPTS BPA page on the GSA website.

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GSA’s Earth Observation Solutions: Powering informed decision-making

The General Services Administration plays a pivotal role in streamlining the federal government’s acquisition of cutting-edge earth observation solutions. These systems provide a wealth of data and insights for tackling environmental challenges, driving scientific discovery, and supporting informed decision-making across numerous sectors.

What are earth observation solutions?

EOS encompass a wide array of technologies, including:

  • Remote sensing through satellites and aerial imagery: acquiring visual and other sensor data that covers vast regions, enabling monitoring of changes in land use, natural disasters, and urban development.
  • Ground-based sensor networks: Gathering real-time data on factors like air quality, soil moisture, and weather patterns.
  • Geospatial data and analytics: Delivering sophisticated tools for interpreting, processing, and visualizing complex Earth-related information.
  • Sensor data: Includes synthetic-aperture radar (SAR), LiDAR, and other sensor equipment and imaging technologies to gather information and provide analytics.

EOS in practical applications

EOS offer agencies various uses, including meeting public safety needs, enhancing military operations, and helping to predict and analyze natural disasters. 

Managing flood risks
A federal agency responsible for flood risk management can use EOS to create and update floodplain maps. 

High-resolution satellite imagery helps identify changes in land cover and elevation, which is crucial for mapping floodplains. LiDAR provides detailed three-dimensional data of the Earth’s surface, which supports floodplain modeling. Geographic Information Systems help integrate various data sources to create floodplain maps and visualizations. 

Improved maps lead to better-informed decisions regarding flood insurance, building regulations, and community planning. Communities can develop targeted mitigation strategies and evacuation plans based on accurate flood risk information. These strategies can reduce flood damage and the impact of future floods.

Improving agricultural practices
EOS help support sustainable agricultural practices and optimize resource management. Satellite imagery and sensor data can provide insights into crop health, soil moisture, and land use patterns. SAR can map crop types and track their growth. This helps improve farm efficiency, allowing farmers to optimize resource allocation (water and fertilizer) based on real-time data on crop health and soil conditions.

Monitoring endangered species
EOS can help track endangered species and protect their habitats. High-resolution satellite imagery and aerial photography can monitor wildlife populations, habitat changes, and potential threats. Remote sensing data can track animal movement patterns and identify critical breeding and feeding grounds.

Using geographic information software, EOS can integrate various data sources to create habitat maps and support conservation planning. These efforts support species conservation efforts. Access to this real-time data allows for targeted interventions to protect endangered species and their habitats.

These case studies showcase the versatile nature of earth observation solutions and their profound impact across various federal agencies, contributing to environmental protection, resource management, public safety, and scientific advancement.

GSA’s role in streamlining EOS acquisition

GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule provides a centralized platform for government agencies to procure EOS products and services from pre-vetted vendors. GSA makes it easier for agencies to acquire earth observation products, services, and solutions by grouping geospatial data, knowledge, and analytics under one MAS Special Item Number.  Currently GSA works with 91 EOS vendors to provide services to agencies. With such a large pool of vendors, agencies are able to get multiple competitive bids to get the best price for required services. 

This approach offers several benefits:

  • Simplified procurement: MAS streamlines the contracting process, saving agencies time and resources.
  • Access to expertise: Agencies tap into a pool of qualified and experienced EOS providers.
  • Cost savings: Pre-negotiated pricing and terms help speed up procurements, maximize value, and optimize spending.
  • Data security and management: GSA helps agencies address standards for data integrity and protection.

The future of EOS

GSA continues to work with vendors to build relationships, understand their current capabilities, and gain awareness of future/emerging technology.

EOS will increasingly integrate with artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud computing, bolstering data analysis and decision-making capabilities. New use cases for EOS will emerge, addressing complex challenges across various sectors.

For contracting professionals, staying abreast of GSA’s EOS offerings is essential. Understanding these systems’ capabilities and potential applications across many sectors helps you support your agency’s mission and optimize limited resources.

How to Order:

Agencies can issue an RFI or RFQ through GSA eBuy using SIN 541370GEO. 

Combine SINs to meet your requirements, or try a blanket purchase agreement to fill recurring needs easily. You can also set aside the requirement for one or more socio-economic categories, including but not limited to small businesses, veteran-owned businesses, and women-owned businesses.

GSA will continue to play a critical role in ensuring federal agencies have access to the most advanced and cost-effective solutions. For more information regarding the EOS program, please visit the EOS SIN 541370GEO page on the GSA website, or reach out to GSA’s EOS team at EOS@gsa.gov.

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Update to Better Contracting Initiative 2

In an earlier blog post, Transforming Government IT Procurement: Better Contracting Initiative Priority 2, I introduced the Better Contracting Initiative (BCI) as a driving force behind our ongoing efforts to modernize government IT procurement. 

I described the Governmentwide Acquisition Strategy initiative led by the IT Vendor Management Office (ITVMO) to centralize engagement with critical Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and negotiate universal contract and process improvements to ensure that all agencies benefit from best-in-class terms and pricing as “One Customer.”

Today, I’ll provide details on the ITVMO’s Governmentwide Microsoft Acquisition Strategy (GMAS), an unprecedented initiative to forge a strategic partnership between the government and Microsoft, and provide immense value to the government and one of its critical IT suppliers.

The GMAS origin

In 2023, the ITVMO launched the GMAS initiative to help standardize government contract terms and pricing for Microsoft products and services, offered by many resellers, regardless of where or how agencies acquire them. The goal was to consolidate best-in-class terms into a universal term sheet that agencies could apply to any government buying vehicle. With best-in-class terms and enhanced cybersecurity standards, all government agencies, large and small, would benefit from the U. S. government’s size and weight, and avoid the inefficiencies of negotiating certain contract terms at each procurement. The process was designed to be collaborative, both across the government and with Microsoft, to generate efficiencies for all parties.

Comprehensive due diligence and preparation

After reviewing Microsoft contracts from each of the 24 Chief Financial Officers (CFO) Act agencies, the ITVMO compiled a list of 150+ contract terms and conditions worthy of standardization due to their varying language and benefits. ITVMO also performed an extensive price analysis that revealed substantial variance in pricing from resellers due to factors not always driven by “size of the prize.”

These contractual and price variances revealed an opportunity to capitalize on identified flexibilities, establishing best-in-class contract elements to apply to all government contracts.

With every CFO Act agency participating, the ITVMO hosted a Civilian Services Acquisition Workshop (C-SAW). Over two days, the group collaboratively concentrated the original list of terms and price reduction concepts down to 24. These 24 items comprised the foundation of the GMAS initiative.

Partnership with Microsoft

Over the course of several months, the ITVMO, Office of Management and Budget, and Microsoft’s Federal Division discussed the government’s requests and proposed additional ways to establish a strategic partnership. 

The teams walked through each item to understand the specific requests and the underlying challenges. Stakeholders from Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) engaged with Microsoft’s cybersecurity teams to discuss the critical security elements and standards that GMAS aimed to achieve. 

Recently, the government provided a detailed compendium of solutions for Microsoft to formally consider at the corporate level, as many of the items require updates to long-standing corporate policies. Considerations and discussions on the original 24 challenges are ongoing as of October 2024.

Looking ahead

Microsoft has committed to working with the ITVMO to advance the initiative’s progress. We will continue to work with Microsoft to finalize a path forward.  Throughout the project, Microsoft has acknowledged how implementing consistency across contracts between agencies and resellers would improve its performance as a product and service provider. 

Having spent the last six months working with Microsoft, the government is pleased with the emerging alliance. Clearly, both sides value the other as a critical partner, as demonstrated by the willing collaboration of the GMAS effort. The government is confident that this project will yield unprecedented success and pave the way for more strategic endeavors with other critical IT industry partners.

The GMAS initiative is truly a first-of-its-kind effort to solidify the government as “one customer” in the eyes of a critical industry partner. Building on the anticipated success of GMAS, the ITVMO intends to launch similar efforts with other IT OEMs in FY25. 

Stay tuned for more updates on GMAS and upcoming ITVMO initiatives to improve IT buying conditions for the federal government.

Visit our website to learn more about how GSA’s Office of Information Technology Category addresses the BCI through the ITVMO.

Please follow us on LinkedIn to join our ongoing conversations about government IT.

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Terrestrial connectivity problem? Meet GSA’s satellite solutions.

Problem: Meeting the need for reliable and flexible connectivity

The digital landscape and the federal IT market are extremely fast-paced and ever-evolving; federal agencies require robust, flexible, and reliable connectivity solutions to maintain their operations seamlessly, regardless of location. Even more critical are remote or emergency situations where traditional broadband solutions may fall short. Many agencies face such challenges, needing reliable connectivity for maritime and remote operations. This is one way GSA’s goals of simplifying federal procurement processes helps ensure agencies get what they need and deliver for the American people.

Solution: Leveraging Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites through EIS

LEO satellites’ recent innovations have made them more affordable and accessible. Closer to Earth than traditional geostationary satellites, LEO satellites offer faster response times and more reliable data exchange, both essential to maritime and remote operations.

One great example hits close to home. GSA is also our customer, and the agency uses our solutions. My team collaborated with GSA’s Chief Information Officer to integrate LEO satellite services as part of their Software Defined – Wide Area Network solution to provide high speed connectivity for remote locations, as well as alternate connectivity in a potential emergency situation. Working through the Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions contract vehicle, we helped the organization get the necessary equipment and services. This partnership shows how GSA’s EIS can transform modern IT solutions.

“We’re focused on providing a secure, forward-leaning work environment where we can accomplish our mission regardless of location or emergency situation,” said Erika Dinnie, associate CIO at GSA’s Office of Digital Infrastructure Technologies.

“We streamlined our network, eliminated bottlenecks, incorporated software-defined networking to simplify network management, and implemented a zero trust security posture.”

Enhanced operational efficiency and real-time data exchange

By deploying a SD-WAN that includes LEO satellite services, agencies can revolutionize their operations, allowing for cost-effective, real-time data exchange from remote, airborne and maritime locations. This enhances GSA’s ability to efficiently monitor and respond to environmental changes and emergencies. Agencies can get game-changing real-time data exchange. 

Successfully implementing through EIS highlights the contract vehicle’s flexibility and shows the practical benefits of adopting cutting-edge technology to meet mission-critical needs.

Why agencies should consider LEO services

LEO satellites offer many advantages for federal, state, local and tribal agencies, especially those operating in remote areas or requiring reliable backup solutions. Key benefits include:

  • Faster response time: Due to their lower altitude, LEO satellites transmit data quicker and suffer lower latency than other satellite services.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Innovations and increased competition have made LEO solutions more affordable than ever.
  • Reliable connectivity: LEO is ideal for remote or underserved areas where traditional broadband services are unavailable or unreliable.
  • Scalability and flexibility: Agencies can easily scale services based on their needs, ensuring uninterrupted operations.

Acquiring LEO and SD-WAN services through EIS or MAS IT

Agencies looking to use LEO satellite solutions or enhance their network infrastructure with SD-WAN can use GSA’s EIS and Multiple Award Schedule IT contracts.

EIS Contract Vehicle

  • Offers a comprehensive suite of services, including LEO satellite integration and SD-WAN architecture.
  • Simplifies the procurement process with pre-vetted vendors and streamlined acquisition procedures.
  • Provides cost savings through aggregated federal buying and increased competition among suppliers​​​​.

MAS-IT

  • Agencies can purchase satellite communication services through the COMSATCOM Special Item Number 517410.
  • Provides a wide array of IT products and services, including managed network services and cloud-based solutions​​​​.

Expert support and resources

GSA’s Solutions Brokers can help agencies navigate the acquisition process and select the best solutions to meet their specific needs. They provide technical consultation, scope reviews and solicitation templates to ensure a smooth and efficient procurement process​​​​.

Interested in learning more? Please watch our recent webinar about GSA’s LEO satellite solutions, as part of our Executive Education Series. The event featured GSA’s satellite and mobility subject matter experts and a special guest calling in live from Utqiagvik, Alaska! Slides from the presentation are available below for download.

Slides for November 6, 2024 Low Earth Orbit with Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions CLP Class 508 ReviewedDownload

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Transforming Government IT Procurement: Better Contracting Initiative Priority 2

As part of our ongoing efforts to modernize government IT procurement and management, the Better Contracting Initiative (BCI) has been a cornerstone of our strategy at the Governmentwide IT Program Management Office. Today, I am excited to discuss the strides we are making under the BCI, particularly Priority 2, which focuses on negotiating common enterprise-wide software licenses.

We’ve embarked on a journey to streamline how our federal government procures and manages its software assets. Our new Governmentwide Acquisition Strategy initiative not only aims to enhance operational efficiencies but also to achieve substantial cost savings and increase buying efficiencies.

Strategic collaboration and enhanced efficiency

Our approach under Priority 2 of the BCI involves collaboration and strategic negotiation directly with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), which are essential in managing the government’s vast array of IT resources. By centralizing our engagement processes and encouraging industry to view government agencies as “one customer,” we are ensuring that all government agencies, large and small, benefit from the best possible terms and prices, avoiding the inefficiencies of fragmented and duplicative contract terms.

IT Vendor Management Office’s role in the Governmentwide Acquisition Strategy initiative

The IT Vendor Management Office (ITVMO) has been instrumental in this effort, spearheading direct engagements by developing partnerships with OEMs, conceptualizing solutions for governmentwide challenges, negotiating resolutions, and establishing guidelines that will serve as the benchmark for software procurement across federal agencies. The Governmentwide Acquisition Strategy initiative is truly a governmentwide endeavor.

Steps to success

The ITVMO first identifies target OEMs by soliciting quantitative and qualitative data from all 24 Chief Financial Officers (CFO) Act agencies. Using analysis of governmentwide spend and the gravity of common OEM-specific challenges, the ITVMO recommends an OEM to address, which is then validated and approved by government leadership.

The ITVMO then collects contract data from all 24 CFO Act agencies and performs significant analysis on terms and pricing to identify inconsistencies and abnormalities (both good and bad). With the help of a Governmentwide Integrated Project Team, the ITVMO builds a list of best-in-class terms and target pricing to pursue via a variety of recommended solutions.

After a comprehensive review and discussion of these recommended solutions through a Civilian Service Acquisition Workshop, which further supports implementation of BCI through Prong #3 focusing on getting requirements right the first time which will avoid waste and save financial resources, the CFO Act agencies and the ITVMO works to finalize a set of governmentwide requests for the OEM.

Finally, the government engages the OEM in a collaborative fashion by walking decision-makers through the government’s challenges and recommended solutions for the purpose of cooperative adjustment and, ultimately, acceptance of our governmentwide concepts through modifications to all governmentwide acquisition vehicles so that all federal entities get the benefits of our “one customer” approach.

Consistency in contracts = Better contracting

The initiative is part of a broader effort to not only manage costs but also to ensure that the software we procure is secure, reliable, and meets the diverse needs of the federal workforce. To that end, we’ve made significant progress in identifying key areas where terms and conditions can be standardized to benefit all agencies. Our focus has been on improving license flexibility and mobility, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and implementing cost-effective pricing strategies. The feedback from various stakeholders has been overwhelmingly positive, indicating strong support for a more unified approach to software licensing in the federal sector.

Looking ahead

As we continue to advance this initiative, the insights gained from our ongoing discussions and negotiations will inform our strategies, ensuring that the federal government remains a prudent and effective purchaser of IT resources. To that end, the ITVMO is putting together a guide for agency acquisitions, specific to critical OEMs, to ensure broad recognition and adoption of the best-in-class practices we learned about throughout the Governmentwide Acquisition Strategy process. The goal is not only to save money but also to improve our IT infrastructure, making it more responsive to the needs of our agencies and the public.

The Better Contracting Initiative is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence in government IT procurement. With Priority 2, we are setting new standards for how the government collaborates and negotiates in the IT realm, ensuring better outcomes for all our stakeholders. Stay tuned as we continue to make strides in transforming government IT procurement for the better.

Visit our website to learn more about how ITC is addressing the BCI through the ITVMO.

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Celebrating a major small business milestone

The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) is deeply committed to supporting small businesses, recognizing them as the backbone of our economy and a critical component of innovation and growth. GSA contract vehicles provide small businesses with unprecedented opportunities to compete for federal contracts, helping them to expand their capabilities, grow their operations, and contribute significantly to the nation’s economic vitality. By facilitating streamlined procurement processes and offering dedicated support, GSA ensures that small businesses can effectively meet the needs of agencies while achieving their own business goals. This commitment not only drives agency success but also fosters a diverse, resilient, and dynamic IT industry that benefits all.

The 8(a) STARS III GWAC exemplifies this effort. As the contract approaches its 1,000th task order, it’s a great time to highlight the remarkable achievements of this contract vehicle and the significant benefits it provides to federal agencies and small businesses alike. This milestone underscores the impactful contributions of our industry partners and the vital role 8(a) STARS III plays in advancing agency missions through innovative IT solutions.

Enabling agency success

8(a) STARS III is designed to provide federal agencies with innovative IT services solutions from highly qualified 8(a) small businesses. The contract supports a broad scope of IT services, including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, IT help-desk support, and more. This flexibility allows agencies to address a wide range of IT needs efficiently and effectively.

One of the key benefits of 8(a) STARS III is its streamlined procurement process. By leveraging this pre-competed contract vehicle, agencies can save time and reduce procurement costs, enabling them to focus more on mission-critical activities. Additionally, the sole-source capabilities of 8(a) STARS III enable faster acquisitions and provide direct access to small disadvantaged businesses, enhancing efficiency and promoting socio-economic goals.

What our customers are saying

The success of 8(a) STARS III is a testament to the capabilities and innovation of our industry partners. Here are some real quotes from our recent customer survey that highlight the positive impact of this contract:

  • Standardization and compliance: “The 8(a) STARS III standardized labor categories, established labor rates, and pre-negotiated terms and conditions streamlined the acquisition process and helped to ensure compliance and reduce risk. Also, the step-by-step ordering instructions and the links to tools and resources on the website were an added benefit that were comprehensive and easily accessible.”
  • Ease of use: “STARS III was very easy to utilize. The list of industry partners allowed me to find capable vendors, and the ordering guide allowed me to streamline my acquisition and receive RFQ responses quickly.”
  • Enhanced efficiency: “The 8(a) STARS III sole source authority helped me streamline my acquisition and save time.”
  • Support for Small Business: “We needed an expedited award to a small business. 8(a) STARS III accomplished this with great rates!”

Achieving socio-economic goals

In addition to providing top-notch IT solutions, 8(a) STARS III plays a crucial role in helping agencies achieve their socio-economic goals. By awarding task orders to 8(a) small disadvantaged businesses (SDBs), agencies can support small business growth and help meet the President’s goal of increasing the share of federal contracting dollars going to SDBs to 15% by FY2025. This contract vehicle not only drives agency success but also fosters a diverse and resilient IT industry.

The 8(a) STARS III GWAC is designated as a Best-in-Class contract by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), further affirming its value and effectiveness in meeting government-wide IT needs. This designation reflects the contract’s high standards, competitive pricing, and ability to deliver quality solutions.

Looking ahead

As we approach this significant milestone, we remain committed to supporting our agency partners and industry stakeholders. The continued success of 8(a) STARS III is a shared achievement, made possible by the dedication and expertise of our industry partners. We look forward to building on this momentum and driving further innovations in IT procurement.

Visit our website to learn more about GSA’s 8(a) STARS III or use our IT Solutions Navigator to find the vehicle that’s right for you.

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Without you, we can’t make IT happen!

March marks National Procurement Month, a period to honor procurement professionals and the acquisition workforce across industry and government. Professionals like you who give your all to serve the public interest and make things happen.

Whether it’s making the most of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence or securing contracts to improve an agency’s cloud solutions and emergency mobile services, procurement professionals have tangible effects on the American public.

I want to take a moment to acknowledge the acquisition professionals across all levels of government and industry that work with GSA to deliver Best-in-Class service.

Key to successful organizations

Government acquisition professionals are out there every day doing the hard work of evaluating requirements to determine what’s possible, what’s working, and what could be improved. From reviewing offers and making awards, to monitoring the contract progress with a focus on transparency and accountability, you continue to make a difference and ensure taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly.

Team acquisition

Acquisition is a team sport, and as we continue to build IT acquisition vehicles, we recognize how important it is to be engaged and transparent with our agency and industry partners and to embrace innovative acquisition solutions, while learning from stakeholder feedback and expert procurement professionals in the IT field. Each group is instrumental to the success of our mission.

Evolving and improving

New technologies are rapidly changing and improving how we do procurement. Promising new tools such as Robotic Process Automation (RPA), machine learning, and AI are set to further streamline procurement processes and improve supply chain visibility. Credit for much of procurement’s quick tech evolution over the last couple of years can also go to members of the acquisition workforce: Data analysts, chief information officers, and emerging tech subject matter experts who have developed, found, tested and deployed IT solutions that make procurement more efficient and less risky, expanding our ability to directly impact the bottom line and drive successful outcomes for agencies.

Buy, sell — Be part of the procurement picture

Without YOU, we can’t make IT happen! Thank you for your unwavering dedication.
Do you want to continue your professional development as an IT procurement professional? Learn more at GSA’s Information Technology Acquisition University https://gsa.gov/itau or sign up for a training session and earn CLPs at https://gsa.gov/events.

Are you ready to be part of the vendors who support the American public? Find out how to work with GSA and become a vendor at the Vendor Support Center https://vsc.gsa.gov/vsc/.

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Working on a critical acquisition? Start with GSA’s Market Research as a Service

Before making a mission-critical acquisition, agencies can save time and resources in finding compliant suppliers, capabilities, competition levels and more to understand the market landscape. GSA’s Market Research as a Service (MRAS) conveniently delivers meaningful market data at no cost to federal, state, and local agencies.

How does MRAS work with agencies?

Through FAR Part 10-compliant Requests for Information (RFIs), sources sought, industry days, and advanced product research, MRAS collects data to help customers understand where their need fits within the GSA governmentwide marketplace.

MRAS experts partner with federal, state, and local agencies to create customized RFIs and help agencies shape their overall acquisition strategy with a thorough, tailored market research report. These services are available at no cost and can be completed typically in two weeks or less.

Record of success with MRAS

In three years, MRAS has conducted over 3,000 RFIs for customers, including more than 25% specifically for IT Category Special Item Numbers (SIN) on the GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS).

Top customers served:

  • U.S. Air Force
  • U.S. Army
  • U.S. Navy

Better techniques, better results, Best in Class

The MRAS team uses extensive technology tools and the latest research techniques to generate the best information for customers, and generates a list of vetted, Best in Class GSA industry partners who can fulfill a customer’s unique requirements. The team also works closely with GSA’s talented Customer Service Directors (CSD) to research and review the category, SIN, or contract that best meets the customer’s requirements while following applicable compliance guidelines and maximizing resources.

Customers can review the results of their MRAS request with a member of GSA’s CSD team to answer questions and consider next steps.

Recently, the MRAS team produced a market research report for a multimillion-dollar Department of Defense (DOD) project at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. and Fort Irwin, Calif. In less than two weeks, the team identified more than 40 potential sources. DOD ultimately found a winning match on the MAS IT professional services SIN.

GSA’s MRAS – Your free resource to start your agency’s successful acquisition journey

GSA’s MRAS offers customers invaluable help through a key component of the acquisition process. MRAS helps agencies make informed acquisition decisions precisely and efficiently. Contact MRAS to learn more and get started today.

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FAS Commercial Platforms Initiative

I’ve had the pleasure of being involved with the Commercial Platforms marketplace initiative since its inception. To make it easier for federal agencies make routine commercial product purchases, we partnered with multiple online platforms to modernize the buying experience. Through these partnerships we have made significant progress, and I’m excited to share more details on where the program is headed.

Program update

The Commercial Platforms program launched in August 2020 with four initial agencies and approximately 350 cardholders who could log in and purchase from any of our three participating platforms. I’m happy to report that agency interest is very strong, and the program has grown to over 20 participating agencies and over 40,000 total eligible cardholders.

The Commercial Platforms team actively works with the platforms to identify ways to support administration priorities in the areas of:

  • Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM), 
  • Green Products, 
  • Small Business, 
  • Made in America, and 
  • Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility.

There is a continued emphasis on customer experience and direct feedback from buyers and program managers to better understand how the program can improve. Check out the new Commercial Platforms infographic for more FY21 highlights. 

Leadership changes

I’m pleased to share that GSA’s Northeast and Caribbean Regional Commissioner Jeff Lau is the new Executive Sponsor of the Commercial Platforms program. I will continue to provide guidance and support in a consultative role, but Jeff will manage the team and help shape the future of the program. 

Jeff recently shared that he sees “a great deal of potential and opportunity within this program to modernize and streamline routine commercial buying. I am excited about growing the program and broadening the number of platforms participating in future contracts. This will be a significant focus area as part of my leadership.”

Future contracts

Work is now underway on the next acquisition for the Commercial Platforms program, with existing contracts in place until June 2023. The team released a Request for Information (RFI) that asks for feedback from industry stakeholders on requirements and capabilities to support future program contracts.

As the market and our understanding of the e-commerce landscape evolves, buyer feedback will continue to play a significant role. The buyer’s experience is emerging as the top priority area, and we will keep learning from industry’s insights, feedback, and commercial practices.

To access the RFI, please visit and subscribe to the GSA Interact Commercial Platforms group. Visit www.gsa.gov/commercialplatforms for the latest on the Commercial Platforms program.

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