The General Services Administration (GSA) has introduced the GSA 2GIT Follow-On Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) as a successor to the First Generation IT (1GIT) BPAs. This initiative aims to provide a comprehensive, streamlined procurement solution for IT hardware, software, and ancillary services across federal, state, local, regional, and tribal governments.
This article provides a deep dive into the GSA 2GIT Follow-On BPA, outlining its strategic scope, core benefits, eligibility considerations, and procurement procedures. Agencies and contractors alike will benefit from understanding the value and requirements of this procurement vehicle.
Background and Evolution of GSA 2GIT Follow-On
The First Generation IT (1GIT) BPAs segmented awards by commodity groups, an approach that led to moderate satisfaction due to its complexity and redundancy. Agencies expressed a strong preference for simplified acquisition mechanisms. Based on this feedback, GSA, in collaboration with the U.S. Air Force, launched the GSA 2GIT Follow-On to provide an integrated, efficient solution that meets diverse IT needs in one place.
The GSA 2GIT Follow-On is a major evolution in IT acquisition strategy. Designed as a total solution and guided by a Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. Air Force, the program replaces the now-sunset NETCENTS-2 contract, marking a new era in hardware and software purchasing across DoD and civilian agencies.
Scope of the GSA 2GIT Follow-On BPAs
The GSA 2GIT Follow-On encompasses five major product categories. These line items provide the flexibility and depth required by today’s IT environments:
- Data Center Solutions (Compute/Store): Includes servers, enterprise storage systems, security appliances, hyperconverged infrastructure, and associated software solutions.
- End-User Devices: Ranges from standard laptops and desktops to ruggedized tablets and thin clients, plus essential peripherals and accessories.
- Networking Equipment (Connect): Provides routers, switches, AV equipment, wireless infrastructure, and VTC systems.
- Radio Equipment: Covers mission-critical hardware such as handhelds, base stations, vehicle units, trunking systems, and repeaters.
- Order Level Materials (OLMs): Supports value-added components at the order level, up to 33.33% of the total order.
Additionally, all equipment must include the necessary peripherals and software for operation as per OEM specifications. These solutions must be usable across security classifications, from Unclassified to Top Secret and SCI levels.
Key Benefits of GSA 2GIT Follow-On
Efficient Procurement Process
The GSA 2GIT Follow-On eliminates the need for agencies to repeatedly draft solicitations and search for sources. Its eBuy integration and BPA-based pricing expedite procurement cycles and reduce administrative overhead.
Emphasis on Small Business Inclusion
Although not set aside for small business, the BPA allows for small business participation at the order level. Many awardees under the GSA 2GIT Follow-On are from small and disadvantaged sectors, promoting inclusivity and innovation.
Best-in-Class Contract Vehicle
The GSA 2GIT Follow-On is recognized as a Best-in-Class (BIC) contract by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). This designation means it meets rigorous performance and compliance standards and is encouraged for government-wide adoption.
Strategic Supply Chain Risk Management
To mitigate threats, the GSA 2GIT Follow-On integrates Department of Defense (DoD) DFARS clauses and NIST standards. Vendors must track and report supply chain data, and demonstrate transparency in sourcing and cybersecurity posture.
Broad Use and Standardization
Available through the GSA Cooperative Purchasing Program, the BPA extends to state, local, and tribal governments. For DoD use, it maintains Air Force-specific standards previously aligned with NETCENTS-2.
Eligibility Requirements for GSA 2GIT Follow-On
Contractors aiming to participate in the GSA 2GIT Follow-On must:
- Hold a GSA MAS Contract: Specifically under SINs 132-8, 132-12, 132-32, 132-33, or 132-34.
- Demonstrate Capability in Core Categories: Vendors should offer total solutions aligned with BPA Line Item configurations.
- Comply with Technical Specifications: Adherence to customer-specific standards, including GSS configurations or CCS-2 for USAF end-user devices, is essential.
- Engage in Teaming if Needed: CTAs are permissible; however, subcontracting does not require formal teaming documents.
- Implement SCRM Protocols: NIST and DFARS compliance is required.
View our Proposal Services for help navigating these requirements.
Ordering with the GSA 2GIT Follow-On BPA
The streamlined ordering process allows agencies to:
- Define Requirements: Outline technical and operational needs.
- Issue RFQs via eBuy: Specify socioeconomic considerations, delivery needs, and compliance clauses.
- Review Offers: Evaluate on price, capability, past performance, and risk.
- Award Task Orders: Ensure terms are aligned with BPA structure.
Our Capture Services help contractors identify and pursue orders effectively.
Looking Ahead: Strategic Value of GSA 2GIT Follow-On
The GSA 2GIT Follow-On is more than a procurement mechanism—it reflects the evolution of IT acquisition. With its one-stop-shop model, it enables federal buyers to consolidate purchasing, reduce duplicative efforts, and support enterprise-wide modernization goals.
For vendors, it creates scalable access to buyers across civilian and defense agencies. Given its mandatory use by the U.S. Air Force and its eligibility for state and local entities, the program offers a gateway to substantial contract volume.
Agencies that adopt the GSA 2GIT Follow-On benefit from:
- Faster time to delivery
- Lower total cost of ownership
- Enhanced IT standardization
- Greater data transparency
Conclusion
The GSA 2GIT Follow-On BPA is a powerful procurement tool designed to meet the government’s evolving IT needs. From its broad scope and robust vendor base to its alignment with federal efficiency goals, the GSA 2GIT Follow-On embodies the next generation of government IT acquisition.
By preparing early, understanding the program’s framework, and leveraging professional support for capture and proposal management, contractors can effectively position themselves to succeed under this competitive and influential contract.