Which of the following categories would be most affected by the definition of "High-Risk Contractors"?

The definition of "High-Risk Contractors" pertains specifically to those contractors who have demonstrated a pattern of poor performance or non-compliance with regulations and contract requirements. These contractors are often subjected to a higher level of scrutiny due to their past behaviors, which can include issues such as not meeting contractual obligations, failing to adhere to regulations, or having a history of litigation or disputes related to contract fulfillment.

By identifying these contractors as high-risk, agencies can implement more rigorous oversight and evaluation procedures, ensuring that they are closely monitored and required to improve their practices before being awarded further contracts. This focus is crucial for government procurement because it emphasizes accountability and helps mitigate the potential risks that could affect the successful execution of projects funded by taxpayer dollars.

In contrast, contractors with documented successful past performances or with no history of compliance issues are typically viewed as more reliable and trustworthy, thus placing them in a lower risk category. Contractors offering technical services can span a wide range of classifications and would not inherently be assessed as high-risk solely based on the nature of services provided. The key factor in determining if a contractor is high-risk lies in their documented performance and compliance history.