GSA helps states transform IT acquisition

GSA helps states transform IT acquisition

When the state of Florida couldn't find an IT solution for its agency that protects its fish and wildlife, they turned to the U.S. General Services Administration's Multiple Award Schedule and Cooperative Purchasing Program.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Office of Information Technology explored state term contracts, but they didn't find any that met their specific needs.

"That's where GSA came in. We're committed to making it easier for everyone to do business with the government, including our state, local, and tribal partners," said Laura Stanton, Assistant Commissioner for IT Category in GSA's Federal Acquisition Services. "Using the Cooperative Purchasing Program through the State of Florida's alternate contract source, the conservation commission found a more streamlined and efficient way to procure the IT support they needed."

The office was looking for specific IT solutions - database design, as well as systems analysis, programming and integration - but getting procurements for strategic IT goals posed a challenge. Plus, they needed support from staff who had experience developing and managing solicitation processes for IT services while ensuring they were aligned with state purchasing rules.

GSA benefits state and local purchasers

The Cooperative Purchasing Program allows state, local, tribal, territorial, educational and other public entities to buy a variety of commercial products and services under the Information Technology Category of the GSA Multiple Award Schedule. Customers who choose this route get a lot of benefits:

• Access to 7.5 million innovative commercial IT products, services and solutions from thousands of pre-qualified vendors.
• Free scope reviews to match their needs to the right contract.
• Cost savings through pre-negotiated pricing that maximizes their budget, directing more funds to solutions.
• Guidance from subject matter experts in acquisition, security and technology.
• Reduced administrative burdens and expedited timelines.
• Convenient, centralized and simplified procurement mechanisms.
• And the knowledge that they are compliant with federal standards and best practices.

Streamlined, simplified technology procurement

Working with GSA transformed Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Office of Information Technology's IT procurement process. Over four years, FWC OIT completed several key IT projects on time and within budget, totaling over $1.1 million. Transitioning to GSA's Multiple Award Schedule allowed them to focus on their core mission, while knowing that their IT project procurement planning and solicitation activities were being handled by experts who do this every day.

If you know someone who wants more information on how to partner with GSA, tour our regional offices, find your point of contact, or just contact our National Customer Service Center.