Key Takeaways:
- GSA reveals the final solicitation for ETSNext, the follow-up to its current travel system for federal employees.
- ETSNext aims to centralize travel services for other civilian agencies.
- The new system will be a cloud-based managed service platform for travel information.
- SAP and CW Government Travel are among the incumbents competing for the contract.
The General Services Administration (GSA) launched its E-Gov Travel Service in the early 2010s.
This service unified travel planning, authorization, reservations, ticketing, expense reimbursement, and management reporting for civilian agencies.
What is ETSNext?
According to a Washington Technology report, ETSNext represents GSA’s ambition further to streamline travel services on behalf of other civilian agencies.
GSA disclosed the ETSNext final request for proposals as a segment of a two-phase competition.
After the first phase, contenders will be shortlisted.
Technicalities of ETSNext
The chosen entity for ETSNext will provide a cloud-based managed service platform for travel data and related support services.
GSA emphasizes acquiring a flexible commercial service devised for government-wide use.
Key Players and Contract Details
The report noted that SAP entered the scene through its takeover of Concur Technologies in 2012.
CW Government Travel, also known as CWTSatoTravel, joined the program in 2013 and now competes with SAP.
No maximum value is mentioned for ETSNext, but it might run for up to 15 years, beginning with a three-year base term, followed by four three-year optional periods.
Per the report, the ongoing contracts are estimated to be worth $1.4 billion each and are set to end on June 3, 2027.
The report noted that Deltek data shows SAP garnered $114.6 million, while CWTSatoTravel secured $55.2 million to date.
Bidding Process Insights:
The report noted that phase one proposals are due by January 31, 2024.
This phase demands comprehensive details, including security, pricing, and oral presentations.
For the second phase, proposals are expected by June 30.
This stage concentrates on the technical and management strategies of the bidders.
Services in ETSNext
The new system will encompass planning, booking, audits, reporting, support, program management, and transitioning.
What Do We Think
GSA’s endeavor to centralize and enhance the federal travel system with ETSNext showcases the government’s commitment to modernization and efficiency.
It will be intriguing to see which entity will be entrusted with this massive responsibility and how it will shape the future of federal employee travel.
