Which of the following is a primary purpose of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)?

The primary purpose of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) is to provide guidelines for the procurement of goods and services by federal agencies. The FAR establishes a comprehensive framework to govern the acquisition process, ensuring that procurement is conducted fairly, openly, and efficiently. It sets forth principles and policies that all federal agencies must follow, promoting accountability and transparency in federal purchasing activities.

Understanding the FAR is crucial for ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely, and it helps to standardize acquisition processes across various agencies. By providing clear guidelines, the FAR aims to improve procurement outcomes and achieve value for the government while fostering competition and innovation in the marketplace.

The other choices do not accurately capture the intent or scope of the FAR. For example, maximizing profits for contractors is not a goal of the FAR; rather, it seeks to ensure fair pricing and competitive rates. Moreover, eliminating competition contradicts the foundational principles of the FAR, which promotes competitive practices as a means of obtaining the best value. Lastly, while the FAR does include pricing guidelines, it does not establish a fixed pricing model for all federal purchases, as flexibility in contract pricing is often needed based on specific circumstances and market conditions.