Securing our services is easy and convenient. Program Officers (PO)/Contract Officers (CO) have the option of issuing a task order, purchase order, or a record of call. This can be accomplished competitively or directly with BLS, bypassing the lengthy process of competing the order or justifications for a sole source. The process will proceed as follows:

• BLS will provide an online work order form to the PO.
• The PO will complete the form, providing as many details as possible, and will submit the form to BLS via our online ordering system, fax, or e-mail.
• BLS will return a fixed-price quote for the services requested, with a summary attachment that outlines the services and/or products to be received under the order.
• The PO will create the purchasing documents and deliver them to the CO and BLS.
• The CO will officially notify BLS of the award, and the work will begin.

Services BLS provides under the HHS BPA include, but are not limited to:

• Arrange Audiovisual Services
• Arrange Conference Space
• Arrange Storage and Disposal of Event Materials
• Arrange Hotel Rooms
• Arrange Registration Services
• Arrange Support Services for the Disabled
• Arrange Transportation Services
• Arrange VIP Services
• Deliver Event-Specific Training
• Manage Conference/Event Finances
• Manage Marketing and Communications
• Manage Post-Conference Materials and Correspondence
• Manage Pre-Conference and Conference Materials
• Provide Post-Event Reports
• Provide Fiduciary Services
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BLS has researched and secured strategic pricing options with numerous hotels, travel agents, and vendors. Through the HHS Events Management contract, Government users will realize savings that result in costs that are below published Federal hotel and travel prices. BLS discounts will be applied automatically and can typically be relied upon for most domestic meetings that are planned in a reasonable amount of time and do not require special exceptions and arrangements (e.g., traveler requires first-class seating due to documented medical reasons).

Overhead rates for this contract were covered and accepted during negotiations for this contract with HHS. BLS rates will be incorporated within the costs submitted in response to the workplans.

BLS has partnered with experts within the airline industry to offer unique convenience and cost-saving strategies to include an automated search and refund service for unused air tickets. The cost of airline tickets purchased at least 2 weeks in advance will generally reflect a fare that is 35% below Federal Government fares. Refundable tickets can be purchased. A preference for this approach would be required within the BLS workplan so appropriate pricing can be incorporated into the cost proposal.
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Whenever there are changes to the workplan that will result in a cost increase, purchasers can simply submit a “change order” modification through the BLS online system, mirroring the process originally used to secure the contract. BLS staff will work closely with purchasers to advise and alert them of planning decisions that would impact cost.

• Quick procurement process
• Leveraged discounts and significant savings
• Decreased paperwork
• Pre-screened contractor with proven capabilities
• Online access for ordering services, reviewing documentation, and accessing information