Alliant Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a Governmentwide Acquisition Contract (GWAC)?

A Governmentwide Acquisition Contract (GWAC) is a task-order or delivery-order contract for Information Technology established by one agency for governmentwide use. Each GWAC is operated by an executive agent designated by the Office of Management and Budget pursuant to the Clinger-Cohen Act of 1996. GWACs are not subject to the Economy Act.

2. Why did GSA align the scope of the Alliant contracts with the Federal Enterprise Architecture (FEA)/Department of Defense Enterprise Architecture (DoDEA)?

Because we wanted to provide the most comprehensive and flexible IT contracts possible. The FEA alignment will facilitate agencies’ efforts to migrate toward a more unified governmentwide IT infrastructure, by standardizing technologies and systems that support mission needs. By aligning with FEA, the Alliant contracts:

  • Use a common language to define IT investments
  • Evolve over time as technology develops and expands
  • Adhere to a modeled approach (eliminating the need to "list everything possible")
  • Assist customers in responding to OMB mandates for tracking and reporting IT investments
  • Promote sharing, consolidation, and reuse of business processes and systems

3. What can be purchased using the Alliant contracts?

The Alliant contracts are for Information Technology (IT) services and IT services-based solutions. Ordering Contracting Officers may include ancillary services and equipment on orders as long as the ancillary support is integral and necessary for the IT services-based solution.

4. What is the value proposition for using Alliant and Alliant Small Business?

The Alliant contracts offer a high level of flexibility and streamlined efficiency. By incorporating innovative concepts, customers are assured of optimal mission support throughout the life of the Alliant contracts. Just a few of the highlights include:

  • Robust scope aligned with the Federal Enterprise Architecture (FEA) and Department of Defense Enterprise Architecture (DoDEA) that provides access to a full range of comprehensive IT services and IT services-based solutions while offering flexibility as emerging technologies and the definition of Information Technology evolve
  • On-ramp and Off-ramp provisions insure retention of a highly qualified pool of contractors
  • A full spectrum of contract types, including cost reimbursement
  • Worldwide coverage
  • Ease of use

5. How does a federal agency access the Alliant contracts?

Federal buyers who wish to use the Alliant contracts must receive delegation of procurement authority from GSA prior to issuing task orders. Information on how to obtain this delegation is available on the Alliant Overview page (www.gsa.gov/alliant) and the Alliant Small Business page (www.gsa.gov/alliantsb).

6. Can a Contracting Officer limit competition of task orders to a set number of prime contractors?

No. All contract holders must be provided a fair opportunity to be considered for all orders in accordance with FAR 16.505 unless an exception to fair opportunity in FAR 16.505(b)(2)(i)-(iv) applies. Exceptions must be documented in the file.

7. Where can I find ordering procedures for the Alliant contracts?

Ordering procedures are explained in the Alliant Ordering Guides (one for Alliant and one for Alliant Small Business) that are available on the Alliant Overview page (www.gsa.gov/alliant) and the Alliant Small Business page (www.gsa.gov/alliantsb) under the heading, Contract Library.

Last Reviewed 4/1/2009