Supply Arrangement for Solutions-Based Informatics Professional Services (SBIPS)
Solutions-Based Informatics Professional Services (SBIPS) is a critical procurement framework designed to help Canadian government departments and agencies acquire specialized IT services and solutions. This arrangement ensures the delivery of comprehensive, outcome-focused IT projects, allowing suppliers to manage and accept responsibility for the success of the requirement. Below is an overview of the SBIPS Supply Arrangement, including its components, eligibility criteria, and key considerations.
What Is the SBIPS Supply Arrangement?
The SBIPS Supply Arrangement is a method of supply established by Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) to procure IT services and solutions. It is focused on:
Delivering self-contained, outcome-driven results.
Managing complete IT projects or phases.
Meeting government requirements with minimal follow-up or additional work.
SBIPS is specifically designed for complex, large-scale IT projects that require tailored solutions rather than predefined deliverables.
Key Features of the SBIPS Supply Arrangement:
Covers essential IT services and goods.
Focuses on result-oriented outcomes.
Allows suppliers to deliver end-to-end solutions.
Provides a framework for project management, risk mitigation, and accountability.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for SBIPS?
Suppliers must meet stringent criteria to qualify as SBIPS holders. Key requirements include:
Security Clearance
Designated Organization Screening (DOS): At a minimum, suppliers must hold a valid DOS issued by the Canadian Industrial Security Directorate (CISD).
Facility Security Clearance (FSC): In cases of joint ventures, the highest level of security is determined by the member with the lowest clearance.
Streams of Expertise
Suppliers must demonstrate proficiency in one or more streams of expertise outlined in Annex A and Annex D of the Supply Arrangement. Examples of streams include:
Business Transformation
ERP/CRM Implementation
Geospatial Informatics Services
Network Services
Security Management
How Does the Contracting Process Work?
Only suppliers with an "Active" status in the SBIPS Supply Arrangement database at the time of bid solicitation are eligible to participate. PSPC oversees the procurement process to ensure compliance with government policies and guidelines.
Key Contracting Policies
Revised Contracting Delegations:
As of April 11, 2019, the contracting authority for services has increased to $37,500,000 for PSPC and $3,750,000 for most other government departments.
Contracting officers must hold the appropriate Delegated Contracting Authority to sign agreements.
Security Requirement Checklists (SRCLs):
Each bid solicitation identifies the applicable SRCL.
Suppliers must adhere to the security requirements specific to each project.
Quarterly Usage Reporting:
Suppliers must report the total value of awarded contracts in their quarterly reports.
Reports are due on the 15th day following the end of each quarter.
Reporting Periods:
Q1: April 1 – June 30 (due July 15)
Q2: July 1 – September 30 (due October 15)
Q3: October 1 – December 31 (due January 15)
Q4: January 1 – March 31 (due April 15)
Failure to submit accurate and timely reports may result in suspension or cancellation of the Supply Arrangement.
How Are Bids Solicited Under SBIPS?
The bid solicitation process follows PSPC’s Professional Services National Procurement Strategy. This involves:
Annual Re-Competition: Suppliers must submit bids to maintain their SBIPS status.
Refreshes: New suppliers or additional streams/regions can be added through periodic refreshes, which occur three times per year.
Bid Submission: All bidders must comply with the terms of the solicitation documents.
Benefits of SBIPS
For Government Departments:
Access to pre-qualified suppliers with proven expertise.
Streamlined procurement process for complex IT projects.
Enhanced accountability and transparency.
For Suppliers:
Opportunity to work on high-value IT projects.
Structured framework for delivering innovative solutions.
Long-term business opportunities with the federal government.
FAQs About SBIPS
What Is the Difference Between SBIPS and TBIPS?
SBIPS: Focuses on solutions-based outcomes, where suppliers manage and deliver entire projects.
TBIPS: Task-based, addressing specific, predefined deliverables within a project.
How Do I Become an SBIPS Supplier?
Monitor CanadaBuys for RFSA postings.
Submit a bid demonstrating your qualifications and expertise in relevant streams.
Maintain compliance with all security and reporting requirements.
What Happens If I Miss a Quarterly Report Deadline?
Failure to provide accurate quarterly reports may result in penalties, suspension, or cancellation of your Supply Arrangement.
Conclusion
The SBIPS Supply Arrangement is an essential tool for Canadian government departments to access innovative IT solutions. For suppliers, it offers a structured pathway to participate in high-value projects that shape the nation’s digital infrastructure. By understanding the eligibility requirements, reporting obligations, and contracting process, suppliers can maximize their opportunities under this framework. Whether you are asking, “How do I qualify for SBIPS?” or “What are the reporting requirements for SBIPS?” this guide provides the foundational knowledge needed to succeed.