What is usually required for a contractor to obtain a government contract?

To obtain a government contract, a thorough bidding process that complies with FAR standards is essential. The Federal Acquisition Regulation serves as a comprehensive set of rules that govern the acquisition process for federal agencies and their contractors. This process ensures transparency, competition, and fairness, thus upholding the integrity of public procurement.

The bidding process requires contractors to submit proposal responses based on prescribed criteria, often including technical capabilities, pricing, and compliance with specific requirements. This rigorous assessment ensures that only the most qualified contractors are selected based on merit, ensuring efficient use of taxpayer funds and adherence to legal standards.

While previous government contract experience can be beneficial for a contractor, it is not the sole requirement to secure a contract. Similarly, while employees with certifications can enhance a company's credibility, having a high number of certifications is not a commonly mandated criterion in the bidding process. Lastly, the concept of a lottery system for awarding contracts is not appropriate in federal procurement, as it would undermine the competitive nature mandated by the FAR. Thus, adhering to the thorough bidding process is the correct approach for obtaining government contracts.