De-Obligation of Excess Funds FFP - Cellular Services

[3ana]

Is there a way to amend/modify a FFP contract to de-obligate funding for cellular services?

Contract is setup to provide service for xx number of devices. The number of devices is based on projected onboard members for the FY. But turnover between personnel happens throughout the FY.

We only get billed for the number of devices actually activated during the FY, but we have to ensure we have an adequate number of devices available right away once a new member is onboard.

In the end we have lower billings because of the time some devices were not activated, plus, the service provider gave discounts during the early FY months which brought our execution way down.

We have been told that the only way to de-obligate is to de-scope the contract, meaning to cut the number of devices down to meet the amount for de-obligation. Can't cut devices though as that will cause the service provider to shut service off for the number of devices in use.

What is the best way in the future to proceed with a cellular services contract? We require the availability of more than 5,300 iPhones and over 3,700 hot spots.

[ROD]

If is a contract it will be a Modification and not an Amendment.

When it comes to cell phones first and must I hope your office is using the mandated Spiral3 through the Navy.

Cellphones are in that blurry line between service and supplies. I think you should be able to modify the contract to reflect  actual need. This should not interrupt the service part for the rest of your cellphones. And you should be able to keep the devices if you already paid for it (look at your CLINs) if not it could be that you rent them so you may have to give them back to the vendor...All depends how it was written on the base contract. 

Now, I don’t understand when you mention De-Obligating funds? 

Is the invoice submitted by the vendor lower than the contract? Or is there anyone on the RA/COR staying for example an interruption of service from a period of time occurred?

Cell Phones 📱 could be challenging to deal after contract award. Best of luck

ROD   

 

 

[ji20874]

Ask Verizon or Sprint how large non-Government customers set up their contacts.

When there is an estimated quantity, you may obligate to the estimate and then add or deduct money as needed -- you need not obligate to the maximum.