FCP Seller Profile 101

With the Schedule Input Program (SIP) being obsolete, contractors are needing to become familiar with GSA’s FAS Catalog Platform (FCP). The FCP is a web-based application designed for MAS contractors to manage both product and service catalog data through a more streamlined reporting process. The General Services Administration (GSA) has been requiring Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) contractors to complete baseline modifications to transition contracts from SIP to the FCP. However, before using FCP functions as a new contractor on the FCP,  you will need to update your Seller Profile before beginning the baseline modification. In this blog, we will be reviewing what the Seller Profile is in the FCP and how to navigate it to begin your contract’s transition to the FCP.

What is the Seller Profile on the FCP?

The seller profile contains contract, contractor, dealer, and distributor information, and manages the address information published to GSAAdvantage, eLibrary, and eBuy. It must be completed before you can submit the baseline modification. In the FCP, you will be asked to link an action to a modification in eMod, but this is only necessary in the Seller Profile if you’re updating contract information.

If you are updating contractor, dealer, or distribution information, no modification is needed. Completing the Seller Profile is the foundation of your FCP setup, and it must be finalized before you’re able to upload the Product File and/or Services Plus File.

What are Seller Profile Catalog Offerings?

The first step in the the FCP Seller Profile will require you to indicate your contracts Catalog Offerings. When completing your seller profile, it’s important to only select the catalog offerings that currently apply to your catalog upon initial transition. You’re able to change catalog offering types as updates to your contract are approved by your Contracting Specialist (CS) and Contracting Officer (CO), but when setting up the Seller Profile, only include what is currently awarded and active on your contract.

Which Catalog Offering Should You Choose on the Seller Profile?

When completing the Seller Profile, you will be able to choose between Products, Services Plus, and Price Proposal Template. If your catalog offers Products sold on Advantage, you will need to complete the Product File. Products on a catalog typically include Terms of Use, Universal Product Code (UPC) number, set configuration, and stable pricing, and can be bought on GSA Advantage.

If your catalog offers services, you will need to complete a Services Plus File. The Services Plus File allows for Commercial Labor Categories, Service Contract Labor Standards (SCLS) labor categories, Fixed Price Services/Solutions, Courses and Training, Language Services, Other Direct Costs (ODCs), Ancillary Items, and Products not sold on GSA Advantage.

In some circumstances, it may be required for you to consult with you CS/CO about publishing a Price Proposal Template (PPT). This option may be appropriate if your offerings are highly configurable, only use a Terms and Conditions File, or do not have standardized pricing. For example, the Travel& Transportation Logistics Special Item Numbers (SINs) require a specific PPT, but it’s important to work with your CS/CO when determining if using the PPT is right for your contract. Overall, choosing the correct offering type ensures your catalog structure aligns with how your contract is awarded.

Adjusting Contract Information in the Seller Profile

When reviewing your contract information, it’s important to ensure the information is accurate and matches what is awarded to the contract. If any contract information is wrong, it should be edited accordingly. If applicable, be sure to remediate any data validation errors. If your catalog offers both products and services, select both options so your FCP profile reflects the full scope of your offering rather than only one portion of your contract.

Adjusting Your Catalog Offering Type in the Seller Profile

If you selected the wrong Catalog Offering type, there are ways to fix it. If your Seller Profile is pending CS/CO review, you should contact the CS/CO assigned to your contract to ask them to return it for edits so you’re able to make the applicable changes. If your Seller Profile has already been approved, you will need to create a New Catalog Option and update your Seller Profile accordingly. Updating your Catalog Offerings in your Seller Profile does not require a modification, but your CS/CO will have to approve it before it is published to your profile. This process ensures your catalog reflects the correct offering type without disrupting your overall FCP setup.

Navigating the Seller Profile in the FAS Catalog Program (FCP)

GSA has been making several changes within the MAS program, and it can be daunting as a contractor to keep track of and initiate all the mandatory changes. The Seller Profile is the first step in transitioning your contract to FCP and displays your information on GSA Advantage, eLibrary, and eBuy. It also determines the next steps you will take when finalizing your FCP profile. If you’re looking for support in navigating the FCP and your MAS contract overall, Winvale is here to help.