The In-Service Support Supply Arrangement (ISS SA)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I market my company to get business from the ISS SA?
   Answer: Continue to market your company as you have in the past, but mention to your clients that you are a qualified SA Holder. Contracts Canada is the best place to start for a supplier wanting to do business with the federal government.
   
   
2. If I did not qualify in a category, can I bid again?
   Answer: Yes, a refresh is planned on a yearly basis to allow firms to submit proposals for categories which they have not qualified for.
   
   
3. Why are there so many qualified SA Holders?
   Answer: The purpose of the Request for Supply Arrangement was to pre-qualify firms from which to tender competitive requirements under the second stage of the SA, and maximize competition.
   
   
4. Can departments other than SDC issue RFP's under this Supply Arrangement?
   Answer: The ISS SA is available for use through a PWGSC Contracting Officer. Federal Government Departments and Agencies interested in using the ISS SA must do so via PWGSC for any dollar value contract.
   
   
5. How long does the process take under the ISS SA?
   Answer: The ISS SA offers a fast, efficient, and streamlined approach towards service procurement. The time to get a file going is contingent upon the quality of the documentation provided, the PWGSC internal approval levels and the negotiation stage of the drafting of the RFP. Under the ISS SA, there is generally less posting time than requirements posted on MERX, as indicated in the following link: http://www.pwgsc.gc.ca/sipss/pspd/iss/rfsa-e.html#107
   
   
6. I want to choose a specific company to do the work. Is this possible?
   Answer: No. There is no Sole Source intended under the ISS SA. Requirements are competed so as to maximize competition. Federal Government Departments and Agencies interested in using the ISS SA must do so via PWGSC for any dollar value contract.
   
   

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