Thought No. 3: ODCs in 2013!(?)

Thirteen Thoughts for 2013 continues this week with Thought No. 3: ODCs in 2013!(?) As you know, throughout the last year the Coalition for Common Sense in Government Procurement (the Coalition) has highlighted the fundamental value to customer agencies of the inclusion of ODCs and materials (at cost) in Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) contracts. The Coalition has pointed to Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 12 and FAR Clause 52.212-4, Alternate I, which authorize the inclusion of ODCs and materials in commercial item contracts. An approach that is consistent with the structure of MAS contracts which, as commercial item contracts, already include the applicable FAR Part 12 clauses. Indeed, many hundreds, if not thousands, of MAS contracts also already include FAR 52.212-4, Alternate I.

Implementing ODCs in MAS contracts aligns directly with Acting Administrator Dan Tangherlini’s mission statement for GSA “The mission of GSA is to deliver the best value in real estate, acquisition, and technology services to government and the American people.” Moreover, implementing ODCs is consistent with four of the six new priorities outlined in the Administrator’s January 14^th memorandum to the entire GSA staff. Implementing ODCs will:

1. Enable the MAS program to deliver better value and savings to customer agencies by enhancing competition and streamlined access to commercial solutions.
2. Serve GSA’s partners through the reduction of unnecessary contract duplication fostered by the current inability to include ODCs on MAS orders
3. Expand opportunities for MAS small businesses at a time of increased competition small business in the federal marketplace.

Lead innovation through the MAS program providing greater access to the latest, cutting edge commercial solutions for customer agencies.

GSA has a strategic opportunity to “modernize” the MAS program through the implementation of ODCs. Customer agencies are seeking commercial solutions to their requirements that include ODCs. MAS contractors are ready to compete for and deliver commercial solutions to GSA’s customers. Addressing ODCs will enhance the value and efficiency of the MAS program for all. It is a strategic imperative for GSA in serving a federal government that continues to face budgetary headwinds.

The Coalition looks forward to continuing the dialogue with GSA and working towards a flexible, accountable implementation of ODCs that increases competition, efficiency and savings for the MAS program, customer agencies, and contractors.

2013 is the year to eliminate the “(?)” from Thought No. 3.

It is time for ODCs in 2013!

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