American Research Institute
American
Research Institute (ARI), located in Raleigh, NC, is a leading provider of education
and training resources that focus on the adult learner. From Fortune 1000 companies
to the federal government, ARI combines the latest technology advancements with
sound principles of education to deliver superior training services.
George Proudfoot, ARI Vice President for Government Business, approached the
Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) for assistance in preparing a
proposal for a federal solicitation. During these meetings, George learned of
the assistance the PTAC could provide in helping him apply for a General Services
Administration (GSA) schedule contract (see www.gsaelibrary.gsa.gov).
The management team at ARI was interested in contracting with the federal government
through the GSA schedule 69 (Training Aides and Devices, Instructor-Led Training,
Course Development; Course Development; Test Administration).
The first priority of the procurement counselor was to explain the GSA schedule
process and terminology. Applying for a GSA contract can be complicated and
overwhelming at first glance. However, by breaking the solicitation into its'
respective sections, the process becomes more manageable. The Procurement Counselor
answered questions posed by the client and worked with George to draft responses
to the questions supplied by the GSA during the review process. In May of 2004
their efforts led to success, ARI was awarded a GSA schedule 69 contract. George
stated, "The counselor's help was invaluable in obtaining our schedule."
Soon after receiving their schedule, ARI responded to a Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA, www.fema.gov) solicitation
listed on the e-commerce website known as GSA Advantage. GSA Advantage is designed
exclusively for schedule holders. In September 2004, ARI was awarded the FEMA
contract through their GSA schedule, resulting in a sale over $98,000. Since
becoming a GSA contractor, ARI has realized over $250,000 in federal government
sales and expects additional business in the future. Learn more about ARI at
www.americanri.com.