Navy Contracting: A Case Study

Navy Contracting is a complex business, while it may seem a simple thing to “bid” on a contract through the vehicles available there are many things one must know before the bidding process begins. To gain a contract from the U.S. Navy will give any business a big lead in all arenas both public and private. Planning is essential to this process to include learning all aspects of the basic contract rules is important, since going in blind will lead to the vendor most likely not being able to seal the deal when a bid is started.
There will be an Invitation for Bid (IFB) before any bidding can begin, it is very important for a vendor to understand all agreed upon terms and conditions to ensure they will be met. When starting small a business
There are many opportunities for small vendors since the U.S. Navy is very supportive and receptive of entrepreneurs while setting aside special programs to assist these business owners. A Response should be well written and respond to each part of the solicitation. Following all directions within the solicitation exactly ensures that a bid makes it to the selection phase. While the lowest vendor is usually awarded the contract is important to know that all aspects of the solicitation need to help with the
Understanding the FAR as a vendor will assist in avoiding costly mistakes. Government contracts, while similar to commercial contracts are unique because of the many provisions unique to the government. Provisions may include requirements for payments, scope of work, and the termination of any contracts. The relevant parts for small businesses include Part 19, Small Business Programs, and Part 52, which lists the standard terms and conditions contained in a government contract. There are many rewards as a government vendor such as access to the GSA schedule, recommendation to other agencies and continued government business in the form of repeat contracts. Multiple Award Schedules are often an overlooked benefit for contractors, while being on this schedule/contract does not guarantee award it does provide a vendor with better chances of award due to the visibility this Award Schedule provides. The FAR with its rules and guidelines will prepare all small businesses for any type of contracting, there just needs to be an initial understanding of what is expected.
The government in a sense is protected by the FAR as it spells out all things pertaining to government contracts. The FAR is known as the contracting bible and has often times saved a Contracting Officer by giving simple guidance. Reading the FAR