A Contractor's Introduction to the Federal Acquisition System

In general, the intent of Government contracting is to provide an equal opportunity for anyone to get Federal work. The process of selection is not restricted. This is fair to all, and promotes the free market system. Contracting between public and private entities, especially with the Federal Government, varies significantly from contracting between private parties. Actions that are legitimate in private contracting are not allowed in the public sector. The primary reason for this is the protection of the public good. In public contracting the government is spending the taxpayers money and there is a responsibility to spend that money wisely, and in ways to benefit the public or nation as a whole. Understanding the general intent of Congress in establishing these policies is important to dealing with Federal acquisition regulations. Without some basic background it is sometimes difficult to understand why certain policies exist. The basic policies provide a context within which various regulations are written. This research paper serves as a starting point for those contractors interested in obtaining government contracts. Although it is not all inclusive, it introduces contractors to the advantages and disadvantages of Government contracting, as well as conveys steps necessary to ready their organizations to work with the Federal Government.