Government contracting represents a significant opportunity for businesses of all sizes. In fact, the federal government spends over $600 billion annually on goods and services, making it the largest buyer in the world. However, success in this space requires more than competitive pricing—it demands a deep understanding of the solicitation process and strict compliance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR).
Structure of a Federal Solicitation: Sections A–M
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A: Information to Offerers – Provides essential details and fields that contractors must complete, including: solicitation number, agency contact information, solicitation closing date and time, contractor name, address, phone number, CAGE Code, and contractor signature with date.
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B: Supplies or Services and Price/Cost – Outlines contract line items and the pricing structure for contractor quote input.
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C: Statement of Work – Contains detailed description of mandatory specifications, tasks, and deliverables required under the contract.
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D: Packaging and Marking – Instructions for labeling and shipping deliverables.
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E: Inspection and Acceptance – Defines quality standards and acceptance criteria.
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F: Deliveries or Performance – Specifies timelines and delivery schedules.
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G: Contract Administration Data – Outlines reporting and invoicing requirements.
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H: Special Contract Requirements – Includes unique clauses such as security mandates.
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I: Contract Clauses – Incorporates FAR clauses and agency-specific provisions.
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J: Attachments and Exhibits – Technical drawings or additional documentation.
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K: Representations and Certifications – Includes compliance certifications.
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L: Instructions to Offerors – Proposal formatting and submission guidelines.
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M: Evaluation Criteria – Explains how proposals will be scored.
Understanding FAR Compliance
The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) governs every aspect of federal procurement, ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability. Read below for information on Understanding FAR Compliance and Best Practices for FAR-Compliant Proposals.
Understanding FAR Compliance
The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) governs every aspect of federal procurement, ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability. FAR applies to all executive agencies and covers competition requirements, acquisition planning, contracting by negotiation, small business programs, cost principles, and solicitation provisions and clauses.
Best Practices for FAR-Compliant Proposals
While all sections of a solicitation are important and should be reviewed in full, pay special attention to Sections A, C, L, and M. Ensure cost realism, highlight past performance, maintain accurate certifications, understand applicable cost principles, and implement internal controls to support ethics and compliance.
Conclusion
Federal contracting offers immense opportunities, but success depends on mastering the solicitation structure, understanding the procurement process, and ensuring FAR compliance. By following best practices and aligning proposals with regulatory requirements, businesses can compete effectively and build lasting relationships with government agencies.
Infographic Summary
See Infographic below containing a summary of a U.S. government solicitation’s Structure, Key Steps in the Process, and FAR Compliance Tips.
