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Past performance

A record of how well a contractor performed on previous, relevant contracts, used by the government to assess the risk of a new award. Strong, documented past performance is often decisive in competitive selection.

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A record of how well a contractor performed on previous, relevant contracts, used by the government to assess the risk of a new award. Strong, documented past performance is often decisive in competitive selection.

Why it matters

Past performance is the government’s read on how a contractor did before, and it directly shapes award risk; for a firm, a documented record of relevant, successful work is a core competitive asset.

Standards & authorities

  • FAR Subpart 42.15 (Contractor Performance Information)

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Frequently asked

What is Past performance?

A record of how well a contractor performed on previous, relevant contracts, used by the government to assess the risk of a new award. Strong, documented past performance is often decisive in competitive selection.

Why does Past performance matter for defense and counter-UAS operators?

Past performance is the government's read on how a contractor did before, and it directly shapes award risk; for a firm, a documented record of relevant, successful work is a core competitive asset.

What standard or authority governs Past performance?

Past performance is defined or governed by FAR Subpart 42.15 (Contractor Performance Information).

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