The Federal Procurement Process

The federal procurement process makes up the rules and regulations that govern how the federal government purchases goods and services. The first step is for an agency to determine what goods and services are needed. The second step is to determine the most appropriate way to acquire the goods and services. The third step is to actually obtain the goods and service. This is a much more complex process than it appears in theory.

Several decisions need to be made by the contracting officer, for example, is a federal supply schedule to be used, the type of contract needed, weather or not to use simplified acquisition procedures, or should the procurement be set aside for small business. These are all very complex decisions involving big dollars and federal laws that must be interpreted for the specific situation.

The federal acquisition regulation (FAR) is the main source of federal procurement information. It should be the first place to look when guidance is needed. The FAR lays out contractor qualifications, types of contracts types of contracts, small business set aside programs, and federal supply schedule contracting. Part 2 of the FAR provides definitions and part 52 provides the canned verbage of solicitation provisions as well as contract clauses.

There are three general requirements for firms that want to participate in federal contracting: Obtain a DUNS number; sign-up with the Central Contractor Registry (CCR); and, fill out the online Representations and Certifications Application (ORCA). Additional requirements will appear in the specific solicitations.

There is plenty of help available for businesses from within the federal government regarding procurement. The congressional research service (CRS)has a web-site which has resources for businesses. The General Services Administration GSA is the agency that maintains supply schedules for other agencies. The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA)helps minority business enterprises no matter what size get started in government contracting. The Procurement Technical Assistance Program (PTAP) conducts classes and seminars, has one-on-one counseling, and sponsors networking events. The Small Business Administration (SBA)offers all types of help to small businesses. It offers training and counseling services through its Office of Entrepreneurial Development.

There is no shortage of resources available to businesses that want to get started in government contracting. Businesses simply need to pick and chose what they need from the resources available.