Important Terms

If you are just beginning to market to the federal government, the number of new terms and codes you must learn may feel overwhelming. The online contracting guides listed above cover many of these; here are a few that we feel are particularly important to understand.

Note: For definitions of some of the acronyms you might encounter, click here.

Buyer--The government person with the authority to sign contracts. Buyers make the purchases; small business specialists can assist you in your marketing efforts.

Procurement--Buying or contracting.

Nomenclature--A system of naming.

Specifications and Standards--The specific requirements for products and services aquired by the DoD. See Selling to the Military for more information.

• Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) Codes and North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Standards

  These codes classify the type of products or services your firm is capable of offering. SIC codes are listed in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (Part 19). They are available online at the Department of Labor's OSHA site. NAICS standards will eventually replace SIC codes. NAICS standards are available online from the Census Bureau.

• Contractor and Government Entity (CAGE) Code

  You will need this code to register with the Central Contractor Registration. Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs) can help you obtain a CAGE code.

• Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Number

  You will need this number for both Central Contractor Registration. These numbers are available from Dun & Bradstreet.

• Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)

  This number can be obtained from the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. Or, see identification number information on their Web site.