Alliant 3 is expected to follow a similar methodology to Polaris and OASIS+ on-ramp, which includes filling out a self-scoring sheet.
The maximum available points to claim is 10,500 points. A successful bidder would need to supply up to seven (or exactly seven due to a highly-competitive scenario) past performance examples; each with a value equal to or greater than $275 million.
Unlike OASIS+, there is no predefined threshold for success. This means that no score would be called a safe score.
Partnering is the key
The high contract value threshold is needlessly favoring large businesses while making it very unrealistic for small and/or mid-tier companies to receive an award. So, we recommend small/mid-tier businesses partner with large businesses and present the maximum possible projects with a dollar value of $275 million minimum.
The government requests 3 past performances under emerging technologies (ET) experience. As GSA has set the minimum dollar value of $1M for ET, this is a welcome step for encouraging small businesses. However, presenting the breadth of experience across 7 or more ET categories might be tricky. The Project Verification Forms would be the savior here.
The draft RFP offers a lumpsum of 2000 points in case a small business is priming. However, it is also very unrealistic to expect a small business to possess all those business systems, certifications, and clearance. Getting into a JV or mentor-protégé relationship gives an extra edge in terms of claiming the score for business systems, certifications, and clearance of the partner(s).
Our Message to the Industry Partners
If you are a Small Business – It might be too early to say that the “grapes are sour”. If you are able to bring in a large partner as a JV or mentor-protégé, Alliant 3 could be a cakewalk for you. You get a lucrative 2000 points extra over a large business bidding alone as a prime. Besides, your $1 million dollar emerging technology contracts will be valued a lot.
If you are a Mid-Size Business – If you are a “medium-sized” business falling in between $35 million to $250 million revenue range, Alliant 3 is the right GWAC for you. You can challenge the large companies in this battle, but definitely bringing in a few partners would give you the right ammo. Business Systems such as Approved Accounting and Purchasing systems carry the most weightage, and you don’t want to miss them at all, even if that means getting into a JV.
If you are a Large-Size Business – As a large business, you may have substantial-sized contracts with $250 million+ dollar value. You can showcase all those business systems, certifications, and clearances to score among the highest. But don’t miss to add a few small businesses to your team. You get 200 points for each small business in your team (up to 1000 points).
There is no secret ingredient but the right recipe will make you the winner!
GDI Consulting has extensive experience and expertise in self-scoring and GWAC opportunities. Let us handle the heavy lift of the proposal development and help you achieve your business goals.
