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Centralized Allocation Module
This refers to a system used by the Government of Canada to manage and allocate resources and services efficiently. Understanding the Centralized Allocation Module is important for suppliers as it outlines how requests for services and resources are processed and allocated.
The Centralized Allocation Module refers to the systematic approach the Government of Canada uses to distribute service requests and resources to qualified suppliers, particularly within professional services supply arrangements. If you're bidding on federal contracts, understanding how this allocation system works directly affects your chances of being invited to compete.
How It Works
The system operates primarily through the Centralized Professional Services System (CPSS) Client Module, which government departments use to search and select pre-qualified suppliers. When a federal buyer has a requirement, they log into CPSS and enter specific search parameters: service category, geographic region, level of expertise required, and whether they're seeking Indigenous suppliers. The system then generates a list of qualified suppliers who match those criteria.
Here's the thing: allocation isn't one-size-fits-all. The Task and Solutions Professional Services (TSPS) Supply Arrangement distinguishes between two tiers based on a $3.75M threshold. For Tier 1 requirements—those equal to or greater than the Canadian Free Trade Agreement threshold up to $3.75M—the client selects 10 suppliers manually from the CPSS results, then the system adds 5 randomly selected suppliers from the remaining qualified pool, for a total of 15 invitations when possible. For Tier 2 requirements above $3.75M? Every qualified supplier gets an invitation. This difference matters significantly for your probability of receiving invitations.
According to the Supply Manual (2005 Edition), the allocation process begins when clients submit requisitions that require processing and distribution. Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) historically managed this through systematic allocation protocols that evolved into today's digital systems. The manual allocation described in Chapter 3 (Allocation 3.001, dated 2003-05-30) laid the groundwork for automated systems like CPSS that now handle much of the distribution work.
Key Considerations
Your profile information in CPSS directly determines whether you appear in search results. Missing or outdated details about your service categories, regions, or expertise levels means you won't show up when relevant opportunities arise—even if you're qualified.
For Tier 1 allocations, being in the top 10 that clients manually select gives you better odds than hoping for random selection. This typically means having strong past performance ratings and maintaining an active presence in your target categories.
If your supply arrangement gets terminated, you'll wait a full year before you can re-qualify as a new bidder. The system tracks this carefully, so maintaining compliance with standing offer terms matters for long-term access.
Regional parameters affect allocation more than many suppliers realize. Registered for Ontario but the requirement specifies Atlantic Canada? You're simply not in the pool—regardless of your other qualifications.
Related Terms
Supply Arrangement, Standing Offer, Task Authorization, Pre-Qualified Supplier List
Sources
In practice, successful suppliers treat their CPSS profile as a living document, updating it whenever capabilities or certifications change. The allocation module can only work with the information you've provided.
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