The General Services Administration (GSA) has released the Draft Performance Work Statement (PWS) for the Ascend Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA), a $5 billion opportunity that will redefine Government cloud contracting. Be a part of shaping this contract by submitting your feedback by January 30, 2024.
Ascend BPA: Reshaping Government Cloud Services
Ascend, formerly known as the GSA Governmentwide Cloud BPA, is set to reshape how federal agencies acquire cloud and cloud-related IT professional services. This initiative will consolidate hundreds of existing cloud-related contracts into a single, streamlined vehicle. In fiscal year 2021 alone, federal agencies spent a staggering $9.9 billion on cloud services, with $4.4 billion directed toward small businesses, according to a BGOV analysis. The Ascend BPA is expected to further boost this spending, potentially reaching $1 billion annually.
Scope and Structure of Ascend BPA
The BPA is partitioned into three primary pools, each designed to cater to specific cloud service needs:
- Pool 1 – Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) and Platform as a Service (PaaS): For scalable, on-demand computing resources and development platforms.
- Pool 2 – Software as a Service (SaaS): To deliver essential applications managed by third-party vendors through the Internet.
- Pool 3 – Cloud Professional Services: Specialized services for the adoption, management, and optimization of cloud solutions.
GSA will evaluate and award each pool independently, based on specific criteria tailored to that pool’s unique requirements. The Ascend BPA is set to be awarded in a phased manner and will feature multiple awards in each pool.
The Latest Draft PWS
This Draft PWS outlines key requirements for IaaS/PaaS – Pool 1, and defines the scope for SaaS – Pool 2 and Cloud IT Professional Services (Pool 3). With a closing date for questions and feedback set for January 30, 2024, your input now is crucial in shaping the future Request for Quote (RFQ). This phase of the procurement process is your opportunity to influence the final structure of this BPA, with the Government taking all comments into consideration.
The OST Advantage in Navigating Ascend BPA
With a decade-long duration and a $5 billion value, Ascend is a significant opportunity. OST Global Solutions offers:
- Expert Analysis: In-depth review of the Draft PWS to align your proposals with BPA objectives.
- Tailored Strategies: Customized proposals for each pool’s unique requirements.
- End-to-End Support: Comprehensive assistance from PWS interpretation to compelling proposal development.
Upcoming Deadlines and Action Items
- Review Draft PWS: Available now on GSA eBuy and gov.
- Feedback Submission: The deadline for comments and suggestions is set for January 30, 2024.
Stay updated with GSA’s IT Cloud and Software Interact page for Ascend updates and announcements.
Position Your Organization at the Forefront with OST
OST Global Solutions is a professional business development consulting firm. We have experience supporting large, strategic bids like Ascend. We can provide capture and proposal teams to develop a complete, winning Ascend proposal, or we can provide consultants on a case-by-case basis to fill gaps on your business development team. Our services related to the Ascend proposal consist of capture management, proposal management, proposal writing, graphics support, editing, desktop publishing, and cost volume development.
Contact us to discuss your bids, so we can help you develop a winning proposal.
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