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FWTS Frequently Asked Questions

How will the FWTS contract help the federal government customer to remain cost competitive and technologically current in this dynamically changing wireless marketplace?

FWTS offers a comprehensive package of government-wide, cost-competitive wireless services rich with the features provided by today's wireless technology and positioned to take immediate advantage of new technologies as they emerge. FWTS is a "mandatory for consideration" contract, which requires CSC and its carrier partners to be cost-competitive in all markets with all government users.

In comparison to the GSA Schedule, the key is value-added. By taking a national account approach, the CSC team provides the customer with additional services - for example, management reports, help desk, and so on - and provides the best overall value to the customer.

How will FWTS benefit government customers?

FWTS is the first GSA contract of its kind to provide the highest quality, nationwide wireless services and equipment to all federal agencies and authorized users at the best possible value to the government. FWTS will offer the government a single point of accountability for service provisioning, customer service, customer billing, performance reporting, and contract administration for the entire program. In addition, the contract will provide the flexibility through contract enhancements to obtain additional emerging wireless services and equipment based upon agency requirements and public availability.

How does having one contractor help the government to maintain its costs in this highly competitive wireless marketplace?

CSC has responded with a highly cost-competitive solution that provides the government with a single, nationwide point of accountability and an exceptional level of customer service in the management and operation of wireless services, unsurpassed in the wireless industry today.

Who is on the CSC FWTS team?

The CSC FWTS team consists of CSC as the prime contractor, with GTE Wireless, Bell Atlantic NYNEX Mobile (BANM), and ARTEL Inc. as its major partners. The FWTS team manages the commercial service offering of more than 50 cellular partners nationwide and in off-shore locations. Joined with Pana-Pacific Corporation and Prime Performance Technologies Inc., the team will provide the FWTS with a compelling package of wireless capabilities and benefits unmatched in the industry.

Are small businesses participating in the FWTS Program and what percentage of the opportunity do they represent?

Key teaming partners include ARTEL, Inc., a small, disadvantaged information systems technology firm with extensive experience in the development of wireless network architectures and service transition plans. Prime Performance Technologies Inc., a small disadvantaged business, will provide software development for the remote access service order tracking system. The CSC team's solution reflects over 35 percent small business participation, which includes more than 25 smaller cellular carriers providing service in predominantly rural areas.

What experience does CSC have in providing a nationwide cellular service?

The CSC team includes GTE Wireless, which was one of the first cellular carriers to establish a National Accounts Program. They recognized that their large, multi-state customers wanted to deal with one cellular service provider rather than individual carriers at each corporate location. GTE Wireless currently manages more than 80 national accounts that include insurance, hotel, and airline customers. The FWTS solution capitalizes on the current GTE Wireless National Accounts Program to provide a highly efficient system of nationwide service order implementation and tracking for the entire program.

Where is FWTS available?

The FWTS Program provides cellular services in all 734 metropolitan service areas (MSAs) and rural service areas (RSAs). This includes all 50 States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Marianas.

How quickly can service be provided?

The FWTS Program will deliver both cellular services and cellular equipment in all 734 MSAs and RSAs within 48 hours after receipt of a service order request.

Is FWTS cellular equipment required with the service?

No. Government users who already have cellular telephones will be able to use their existing equipment with the FWTS service.

How will FWTS equipment and services be obtained by the users?

Ordering FWTS will be similar to the current FTS 2000 contract, in that Designated Agency Representatives (DAR) will place orders directly with the FWTS contractor. Federal users will contact their appropriate DAR with a service request.

What is the procedure for ordering FWTS?

The ordering process will be completely automated. The DARs will use their personal computers to electronically access the FWTS Service Order Tracking System. This system will allow the DAR to initiate a service order, track the service order status, track equipment shipments, initiate trouble complaints and review user billing information. Dial-back access control and multi-level security on the system prevent misuse by unauthorized persons.

What customer support is available for FWTS users?

The Federal Wireless Service Center is available 24 hours per day, seven days per week, by dialing 1-888-333-9473. Users will be able to request that FWTS program and product information be faxed back to them, report troubles, and speak with a FWTS customer service representative.

How does the FWTS pricing compare with commercial wireless services?

Each of the 734 MSAs and RSAs have separate pricing schedules. The FWTS contract ensures that this pricing provides the best value for wireless services in that service area. Prices of equivalent services in the ten largest government market areas range from 20-60 percent below commercial rates.

Who is the point of contact for additional information?

For additional information on the Federal Wireless Telecommunications Service Program, FWTS services and equipment, or ordering and billing information, please call 1-888-333-9473.