New NASA SEWP VI Timeline:
- October 1-22, 2024: NASA will provide responses to all previously submitted questions
- October 22-24, 2024: Additional two-day question period
- By November 4, 2024: All amendments and answers to additional questions released
- November 2024: Industry Day to discuss substantive changes
- December 18, 2024, at 12 pm EST: New SEWP VI proposal submission deadline
Parabilis recently hosted a webinar with OST Global Solutions to discuss key strategies to maximize this extra time. Here are some of the main things you should do to prepare as the deadline approaches.
Reassess Your Category Selection
The SEWP VI contract offers diverse opportunities across multiple categories. Understanding these categories and their requirements is crucial for positioning your business effectively.
SEWP VI offers three categories:
- Category A: Hardware, software, and audiovisual support
- Category B: Enterprise-wide IT solutions (new category)
- Category C: IT professional services (small businesses only)
Take the time to thoroughly evaluate your company’s strengths and align them with the category that offers the best chance of success. This strategic approach can significantly enhance your competitiveness in the SEWP VI bidding process.
Strengthen Your Past Performance and Experience
Past performance is a critical factor in the SEWP VI evaluation process. The extended deadline provides an excellent opportunity to boost this aspect of your proposal. Use this time to gather detailed information and documentation for your strongest past performances.
Remember, the quality and relevance of your past performance can make or break your proposal. Invest time in presenting your experience in the best possible light, highlighting how it directly relates to the SEWP VI requirements.
Obtain Necessary Certifications
Certifications serve as proof of your company’s capabilities and commitment to quality. Ensuring you have the required certifications is a crucial step in preparing your SEWP VI proposal.
- ISO 9001:2015: Required for all categories. Small businesses can submit a plan to obtain it within a year of award.
- CMMI: Required for Category B. Again, small businesses have a grace period.
- AbilityOne Commitment Letter: Required for all categories. If you’re having trouble obtaining this, keep persistently reaching out to wholesalers.
Don’t let certification requirements become a roadblock. If you’re missing any necessary certifications, use this extended period to either obtain them or develop a concrete plan for acquisition. This proactive approach demonstrates your commitment to meeting SEWP VI standards.
Prepare Financially
Financial readiness is a critical aspect of SEWP VI success, both for winning the contract and executing it effectively. Use this time to shore up your financial position.
- Secure or increase your line of credit
- Explore flexible financing options, including those allowing you to borrow against work in progress (WIP)
- Negotiate better terms with OEMs and distributors
- Prepare for potential payment delays of 30-90+ days
Financial preparation goes beyond just having capital available. It involves creating a comprehensive financial strategy that can support your SEWP VI activities from bid to execution. Consider consulting with financial experts, like those at Parabilis, to ensure you’re fully prepared for the financial demands of this contract.
Plan for Post-Award Success
While winning the SEWP VI contract is the immediate goal, planning for successful execution is equally important. Use this extended preparation time to think beyond the proposal.
- Develop rapid RFQ response capabilities
- Prepare for quick turnarounds on task orders (sometimes as short as 24-48 hours)
- Create a strategy for marketing your SEWP VI contract to potential government customers
By leveraging these strategies and financial solutions, you can significantly strengthen your SEWP VI proposal during this extended preparation period. Use this time wisely to position your company for success in this major government IT contract opportunity.