Regulations
Key Regulatory Frameworks
Understanding federal regulations is critical for success in government contracting.
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)
What it is: The primary regulation for all federal executive agency acquisitions.
Why it matters: Governs how contracts are awarded, managed, and terminated.
Applies to: All federal contracts (civilian and defense).
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS)
What it is: A supplement to the FAR specific to the Department of Defense.
Why it matters: Includes additional rules for specific to the DoD.
Applies to: All DoD contractors and subcontractors.
Individual Agency and Department Regulations
What it is: A master list of all interagency and interdepartment regulations.
Why it matters: Each entity may have modifications to the FAR
Applies to: Several independent agencies and departments.
Risk Management Frameworks
In government contracting, risk isn’t just a possibility; it’s a certainty. The following are Risk Management Guidelines that will help support your proposal efforts:
Risk, Issue, and Opportunity (RIO)
What it is: A framework for tracking potential risks, current issues, and positive opportunities throughout a project or contract.
Why it matters: Helps contractors proactively manage problems and improve performance visibility for government stakeholders.
Applies to: Project and program managers on federal contracts, especially in DoD and large-scale efforts requiring status reporting.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to know the entire FAR to bid on a government contract?
No. You don’t need to memorize the FAR, but you do need to understand the parts relevant to your contract. Most solicitations reference specific FAR clauses (especially in Sections L and M), and it’s essential to know what those clauses require. Agility helps contractors interpret and comply with the applicable parts—especially in proposals and during execution.
What’s the difference between FAR and DFARS?
FAR is the Federal Acquisition Regulation—it governs all federal executive agency contracting.
DFARS is the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement—a DoD-specific extension of the FAR that adds rules related to national security, cybersecurity, and DoD policies. If you’re doing business with the DoD, you’ll need to comply with both.
How often do these regulations change?
FAR and DFARS are updated regularly through policy memos and rule changes. Updates may come monthly or quarterly depending on legislative activity, cybersecurity events, or internal policy shifts.
Can a small business handle all of these compliance requirements alone?
Technically yes, but it’s challenging—especially when scaling. Many small businesses partner with experts like Agility to reduce risk, avoid delays, and stay focused on delivery. We provide scalable compliance support that grows with your business.
What happens if I violate regulations?
Violations can lead to serious consequences, including:
Contract termination
Withholding of payments
Negative past performance ratings
Debarment from future contracts
That’s why clause interpretation and proactive compliance planning are vital. Agility helps you avoid mistakes before they happen.