The Schedules Input Program (SIP) software can be downloaded from the GSA Vendor Support Center. SIP is a client-side application that allows you to import/input your contract and product data for inclusion on GSA Advantage.
SIP system requirements: SIP is a Microsoft Windows-based program which can be installed on a stand-alone PC or multi-user LAN environment. Note for Mac users - you will need to use an emulator that runs Windows to be able to use SIP on a Mac.
SIP online and context sensitive help: SIP includes an online help function that can be used to assist you in the preparation of your electronic catalogs. Online help is available for each input field by simply pressing the “F1” key.
Can I import my catalog data into SIP?
Yes. When you install the SIP program, an Import Program is also installed which allows you to import either standard ASCII text, DBF files (versions 3.0 or greater), or MS Excel files (MS office 97 version or greater) into the SIP. Call the VSC for further information and assistance. Online help is also available within SIP including instructions and templates.
Submitting your SIP file
After all the products, service and price information are saved into SIP, and you are connected to the internet, it is time to upload your electronic catalog.
- From the top menu, select Communications | Create Catalog Files. SIP will back up your data and begin generating the catalog files for submission, including the mandated FSS Terms and Conditions Price List.
- Once the create catalog process is complete, click the “Click here to start upload” to automatically begin uploading the files to GSA.
Once your files are successfully uploaded, it will be forwarded to the appropriate GSA/VA CO for review. The CO will review the catalog, then contact you via email or phone stating whether the file was approved or rejected (and the reasons for rejection, if applicable).
Response File processing
A SIP response file will also be generated after the CO has reviewed your file. The purpose of the response file is to inform you whether your file was approved or rejected, and to update your SIP software to ensure that both SIP and GSA Advantage databases remain in sync.
SIP will prompt you when a response file needs to be processed and will automatically retrieve and process the file.
Important - You must “process” your response file using SIP before you can send the next catalog update (you can prepare the next submission in SIP but you cannot send it until the response file has been received and processed). Once your response file is processed, you are free to submit new updates.
Rejected files
If your catalog file is “rejected” and your GSA/VA CO has not contacted you by the time you have received your response file, please contact your CO for details as to why the file was rejected.
Important - Rejected catalogs must be resubmitted within 30 calendar days.
Temporary price reductions: Files containing temporary price reductions may be immediately loaded into GSA Advantage via EDI or SIP after the completion of a modification request via eMod. Your CO will be notified when an updated file is submitted. Note that modification requests for temporary price reductions are effective immediately upon submission and the effective date of the price reduction will reflect the date that the contractor submitted the modification via eMod.
Can I submit my MAS products or services in my Terms and Conditions Price List?
Certain MAS SINs have been designated as either allowing or requiring a Terms and Conditions Price List instead of an electronic catalog. The SIP program will prompt you when this option is allowed. Please note that products or services submitted in a Terms and Conditions Price List cannot be ordered online, they can only be viewed. Products should be submitted in a data format wherever possible.
Terms and Conditions Price List file formats
- You may send text files in .pdf, .doc, .xls, or .htm formats.
- Please note that the filename must not contain spaces and must reside in SIP text file subdirectory. See SIP online help for further instructions including what should be included in your text file.
Questions?
Contact the Vendor Support Center (VSC) help desk at 877-495-4849 (M-F 8:30-5:30 PM EST) or email vendor.support@gsa.gov.