Free Online Training from the GSA

The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) offers free online training for small business owners interested in GSA Schedule Contracts. This training is very informative and valuable for any small business owner. A GSA schedule is a great way to contract with the government, but owners must know what it takes first. GSA training will prepare owners to get on schedule as well as help them navigate once a schedule contract has been awarded.

Getting a GSA schedule contract can be time consuming and at times seem intimidating. Often many small business owners feel that a schedule contract is the right way to go when in fact it isn’t. GSA schedule contracts require hard work and dedication. Small businesses must be able to make timely orders and maintain optimal quality assurance. A great way to introduce yourself with how the GSA operates is to take the “Getting on Schedule” course offered by the GSA. This course gives you important information on what it takes to make it with a schedule contract. Some of the topics include; product pricing, past sales performance, quality assurance, set asides, and NAICS codes. It is of utmost importance to know as much as possible about what you, as an owner, need to do to be eligible as a GSA schedule contractor. What is more, a schedule contract does not guarantee you business. You must also have a firm grip on marketing your products because you will have to market to the contracting agencies once on schedule. This training course will help you answer whether or not a GSA schedule contract is for you.

Another useful course to take is “Using GSA Schedules – Customers.” This course will familiarize you with the GSA ’s purchase decision s methods. It simulates the buying process and familiarizes you with how agencies use GSA schedules to acquire products. This is useful because it can give you idea s for market ing your products as well as discount ing insights. GSA contracts are not limited to commercial products only. Service providers are also awarded schedule contracts. This course also gives you the information that you will need if your small business is in the service industry. This course will also familiarize you with the process to prepare a Request for Quotation (RFQ) and how agencies use e-buy to place orders.

As stated above, a GSA schedule contract is not for every small business. Though schedule contracts are useful to many small businesses, they require a large commitment from your ownership and personnel. The first step that you need to take with the GSA is to learn more about it. The various training courses offered by GSA can certainly help. Not only will the training help you decide on whether or not to pursue a GSA schedule, but it will help you streamline the process of getting on a schedule. Most importantly, the knowledge will help you utilize your contract potential and get the business you deserve.

For more information go to gsa.gov or try fsstraining.gsa.gov .