Introduction

The E-Gov Travel Service (ETS) is a government-wide, web-based, and world-class travel management service that is used by over 124 civilian agencies. The current contract for ETS, known as ETS2, will end in June 2027. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) has issued a Request For Proposal (RFP) for the next iteration of the travel and expense service, called ETSNext. The solicitation number is 47QMCB23R0011 and the estimated value is $2 billion. The duration of the term is 3 year(s) base plus 4 x 3 year(s) option(s).

ETSNext is a great opportunity for government contractors who have experience and expertise in providing travel and expense solutions. However, winning this contract will not be easy, as it requires a high level of technical and managerial capabilities, as well as a deep understanding of the government’s needs and expectations. That’s why you need a partner like GDI Consulting, a leading provider of capture and proposal services for government contractors.

Historical Background

ETS was launched in 2003 as part of the President’s Management Agenda to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of government travel. ETS replaced the legacy Travel Management Information Service (TMIS) and consolidated multiple travel systems into one integrated solution. ETS aimed to reduce travel costs, streamline processes, enhance customer service, and increase transparency and accountability.

In 2012, GSA awarded the second contract for ETS, called ETS2, to two vendors: Concur Technologies and CW Government Travel. ETS2 introduced new features and functionalities, such as mobile capabilities, flexible auditing, and data analytics. ETS2 also allowed agencies to select and award their own contracts for Travel Management Company (TMC) services, which provide travel reservations, ticketing, and customer support.

In 2020, GSA announced its plans to deliver the next generation of ETS, called ETSNext. ETSNext will be a single centralized travel and expense service that GSA will contract and manage for government-wide use. ETSNext will support the Travel & Expense business standards developed as part of the Federal Integrated Business Framework. ETSNext will also leverage emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain, to enhance user experience and optimize performance.

RFP Description

The RFP for ETSNext was issued on October 20th, 2023 on SAM.gov. The RFP constitutes an official request for proposal from the U.S. Government. The RFP consists of three sections: Section A – Solicitation/Contract Form; Section B – Supplies or Services and Prices/Costs; and Section C – Description/Specifications/Statement of Work.

The RFP states that the objective of ETSNext is to provide a single, shared, travel and expense service to support the missions of government agencies through an intuitive, streamlined, and secure customer experience, mitigating transition costs and risks. The RFP also states that the scope of ETSNext includes four main components: Travel & Expense Technology Managed Service; Travel & Expense Business Standards; Travel & Expense Governance; and Transition Support Services.

The RFP specifies that the offerors must submit their proposals in two volumes: Volume I – Technical Proposal; and Volume II – Price Proposal. The RFP also specifies that the evaluation factors for award are: Technical Approach; Management Approach; Past Performance; Small Business Participation Plan; and Price. The RFP indicates that the award will be made to the offeror whose proposal represents the best value to the government, considering all evaluation factors.

Who Should Participate

The RFP states that the competition is open to all responsible sources who can meet the requirements of the solicitation. However, not all offerors have an equal chance of winning this contract. Only those who have proven experience and expertise in providing travel and expense solutions to large and complex organizations can meet the high standards and expectations of the government.

The Challenges

Winning the ETSNext contract is not without challenges. The offerors will face several obstacles and risks that they need to overcome and mitigate. Some of the challenges are:

  • Technical Complexity: ETSNext is a complex and sophisticated system that requires advanced technologies and capabilities. The offerors need to demonstrate how they will provide a scalable, secure, reliable, and interoperable solution that meets the technical requirements and performance standards of the government.
  • Transition Management: ETSNext is a large-scale and high-impact transition that involves multiple stakeholders and systems. The offerors need to show how they will plan, execute, and monitor the transition from ETS2 to ETSNext, while minimizing disruption and ensuring continuity of service.
  • Customer Satisfaction: ETSNext is a customer-centric service that aims to improve the user experience and satisfaction of the travelers and approvers. The offerors need to prove how they will deliver a user-friendly, intuitive, and personalized solution that meets the needs and preferences of the customers.
  • Competitive Landscape: ETSNext is a highly competitive opportunity that attracts many qualified and experienced offerors. The offerors need to differentiate themselves from their competitors and highlight their unique value proposition and strengths.

Conclusion

ETSNext is a lucrative and strategic opportunity for government contractors who want to provide travel and expense solutions to the federal civilian government. However, winning this contract requires a high level of technical and managerial expertise, as well as a deep understanding of the government’s needs and expectations.

GDI Consulting has also worked with several clients who have won contracts related to ETS, such as ETS2, DLA JETS, and FBI ITSSS. GDI Consulting has a deep understanding of the travel and expense domain, as well as the government’s needs and expectations. GDI Consulting can help you overcome the challenges and risks of ETSNext and deliver a compelling and competitive proposal that showcases your capabilities and value.